Custom PS (Polystyrene) CNC Machining Services in China
Low-Cost, High-Clarity Concept Models and Prototypes Machined with Speed and Precision.
- ISO 9001 Certified
- Most Affordable Rigid Plastic
- Excellent for Form Studies
Your Expert Partner for Polystyrene Machining
Celerity Precision offers fast and highly affordable CNC machining services for PS (Polystyrene) in China. Polystyrene is a versatile, commodity thermoplastic known for its exceptional clarity, rigidity, and very low cost. In its solid form, General Purpose Polystyrene (GPPS) is one of the most transparent plastics available, making it an excellent choice for basic optical prototypes and “see-through” models. It is also extremely easy to machine, allowing us to produce parts with fine details and a high-quality finish very quickly. For projects where cost is the primary driver, such as early-stage concept models, form-study prototypes, and disposable labware, Polystyrene is an ideal material choice.
Why Choose Polystyrene for Your Machined Parts
Polystyrene is the go-to material when you need to create a rigid, clear, and dimensionally accurate part at the lowest possible price point. Its primary advantages are its glass-like clarity and its ease of fabrication. It machines cleanly and can be polished to a brilliant shine. While it is a brittle material and not suitable for functional or durable parts, its low cost makes it perfect for iterative design processes where multiple models are needed for visual evaluation. At Celerity Precision, we leverage Polystyrene’s excellent machinability to provide our clients with the fastest and most economical way to turn their ideas into physical objects.
Extremely Low Cost
One of the most inexpensive and widely available rigid plastics.
Excellent Optical Clarity
GPPS grade is exceptionally clear with high light transmission.
Easy to Machine
Can be machined very quickly and easily to a smooth, high-gloss finish.
Good Dimensional Stability
A rigid material with low moisture absorption that holds its shape well.
Easy to Bond & Finish
Can be easily solvent-welded and polished to a brilliant shine.
Good Electrical Insulator
A reliable insulating material for low-voltage applications.
GPPS (General Purpose Polystyrene)
This is the standard, transparent grade of polystyrene. It is hard, rigid, and brittle, offering excellent clarity and a high-gloss finish. It is the ideal choice for clear prototypes and concept models.
| Tensile Strength, Yield (MPa) | 45 MPa |
| Elongation at Break (%) | 2-4% |
| Hardness (Rockwell M) | 75 |
| Density (g/cm³) | 1.04 |
Surface Finishing Options for Polystyrene
Finishing options for Polystyrene are focused on maximizing its optical clarity and appearance.
As Machined
The standard finish is a clean but translucent or frosted surface due to fine tool marks.
Polishing
Can be used to create a smooth, glossy, and clear surface, similar to Acrylic.
Pros and Cons of Polystyrene CNC Machining
Pros
- Lowest Cost Rigid Plastic: The most economical option for creating rigid prototypes.
- Glass-Like Clarity: Perfect for prototyping light pipes, lenses, or any part needing to be transparent.
- Fast and Easy to Machine: Leads to very short turnaround times for parts.
- Excellent for Visual Models: Can be machined and polished to a very high aesthetic standard for presentations.
Cons
- Very Brittle: The primary disadvantage. Polystyrene is not tough and will shatter easily upon impact.
- Poor Chemical Resistance: Attacked and dissolved by many common solvents, greases, and oils.
- Low Temperature Resistance: Has a low heat deflection temperature and is not suitable for use in warm environments.
- Poor UV Resistance: Will quickly yellow and become even more brittle with exposure to sunlight. Not for outdoor use.
Applications of CNC Machined Polystyrene Parts
Concept & Appearance Models
Creating low-cost, high-clarity models for design review and visual approval.
Form & Fit Prototypes
Checking the basic size and shape of a design where strength is not a factor.
Optical Prototypes (Non-Functional)
Prototyping basic lenses, light pipes, and windows for light transmission studies.
Disposable Labware
Machining custom petri dishes, cuvettes, and trays for laboratory use.
Retail & Display
Creating clear display stands and components for point-of-sale use.
Architectural Models
Machining clear window elements for scale models.
Polystyrene Machining FAQ
What is the main difference between Polystyrene (PS) and HIPS?
HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene) has rubber added to it, which makes it much tougher and more impact-resistant, but also makes it opaque. GPPS is clear but very brittle. Choose GPPS for clarity; choose HIPS for toughness.
How does Polystyrene compare to Acrylic (PMMA)?
Both are clear and rigid. Acrylic is significantly stronger, more scratch-resistant, and has much better UV resistance, making it suitable for functional, long-term use. Polystyrene is much less expensive and is best for low-cost, disposable, or short-term prototypes.
Will my machined Polystyrene part be clear?
Not initially. The “as machined” part will have a frosted, translucent finish. It requires a secondary polishing step (mechanical or vapor) to become optically clear.
Is Polystyrene a strong material?
No. It is rigid, meaning it resists bending, but it is very brittle and has low impact strength. It will break easily if dropped or stressed.
Is Polystyrene food safe?
Yes, many grades of GPPS are FDA compliant and are widely used for disposable food containers, cups, and cutlery.
How do you prevent Polystyrene from chipping or cracking during machining?
We use very sharp tools (often with specific geometries for brittle plastics), high spindle speeds, and low feed rates to minimize cutting pressure and prevent chipping.
Can Polystyrene be glued?
Yes, it is one of the easiest plastics to glue. It can be strongly and quickly bonded using a variety of common solvent cements.
Why would I choose to machine Polystyrene instead of 3D printing it?
Choose machined Polystyrene when you need superior optical clarity (a 3D print will never be truly transparent), a much smoother surface finish, and better dimensional accuracy than is possible with a 3D printer.