Unlocking the Potential of CNC Plastic Machining Services

Services for CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining for plastics have emerged as one of the essential forms of precision engineering. This new technology offers high levels of accuracy, repeatability, and efficiency. It is used today in aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and electronics industries, which involve complex structures and must deliver excellent outcomes. This blog discusses how CNC plastic machining works, why it is better than other techniques, and what the modern industry uses it for. Also, we will look at what kinds of plastics are more suitable for CNC machining, what industries take advantage of this technology, and what the expected changes in this production technology are. This article will help you understand how CNC plastic machining further opens up new manufacturing opportunities with high accuracy and advanced features.

What is CNC Plastic Machining, and How Does it Work?

Spanish cnc machining plastic is a computer-aided subtractive manufacturing technique that allows manufacturing of durable plastic components. The process starts with a 3D model of the object, which serves as a map of the machining process. The model is programmed into CNC machines such as lathes and drills and is cut and shaped out of a solid piece of plastic called a blank. As a result of complex cutting with the CNC system’s advanced features, quite intricate shapes can be machined with minimal deviations. This technique is highly regarded for its precision, reliability, and appropriateness for prototypes and parts production.

Understanding the CNC Machine Process

The mechanics of the CNC machine can be summed up in a few words. The method of CNC plastic machining starts with the digital translation of a 3D image into a model that can be manipulated. To explain further, this initiates the process when a CAD (Computer-Aided Design) file gets processed to create CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) software that creates toolpath logic of the machines needed. The CNC then uses these paths with other special tools to cut, drill, or mill the plastic blank. This completely unmanned task is self-adjusted to control relatively narrow tolerances, thereby avoiding many mistakes and differences. As a result, high-quality, precise dimensions of a plastic part or component were produced for specific prototyping or even mass production.

Key Differences Between Plastic and Metal Machining

Plastic and metal machining differ significantly due to the inherent material properties, machining techniques, and resulting applications. Below is a detailed comparison of key factors:

1. Material Properties

• Plastic: Plastics are softer, lighter, and more elastic than metals. They have lower melting points, are non-conductive, and exhibit higher thermal expansion rates. These traits make plastics prone to deformation under high temperatures or intense machining conditions.
• Metal: Metals are denser, more complex, and less elastic. They have higher tensile strength, melting points, and conductivity, allowing them to withstand more aggressive machining conditions without distortion.

2. Machining Speeds and Feeds

• Plastic: Due to its lower hardness, plastic machining requires lower cutting speeds (to prevent heat buildup and melting) and lighter feeds. Tools need to stay sharp to avoid excess friction and ensure clean cuts. Recommended cutting speeds typically range from 150 to 1,000 surface feet per minute (SFM), depending on the type of plastic.
• Metal: Higher cutting speeds and feed rates are standard for metal machining, supported by the material’s ability to tolerate heat and pressure. Values vary widely based on metal type, but carbon steel ranges between 60 to 600 SFM.

3. Tooling Requirements

• Plastic: Tools used for plastic machining typically have polished, sharp edges to reduce friction and heat generation. Materials like carbide or diamond-coated tools are preferred for precision and longevity.
• Metal: Metal machining tools demand durability to withstand wear and thermal resistance. High-speed steel (HSS) and carbide tools are standard, and coatings like titanium nitride (TiN) improve durability.

4. Thermal Considerations

• Plastic: Plastics are sensitive to heat, and excessive heat generated during machining can cause warping, surface defects, or melting. Proper cooling, such as air or mist systems, becomes critical.
• Metal: Metals can generally endure higher temperatures without experiencing deformation, and coolants are primarily used to prolong tool life and prevent work hardening.

5. Surface Finishing

• Plastic: Smooth surfaces in plastics often require reduced machine chatter and lighter finishing cuts. Post-processing techniques like polishing or flame-treating are commonly employed to refine surfaces.
• Metal: Metal machining results in surfaces requiring additional finishing processes like grinding, anodizing, or electroplating to meet aesthetic or functional requirements.

6. Applications and Tolerances

• Plastic: Tight tolerances can be achieved in plastic machining, generally ranging from ±0.001″ to ±0.005″. Plastics are commonly used in lightweight components, insulation, and medical devices.
• Metal: Metal machining tolerances are often tighter, typically around ±0.0005″ to ±0.002″. Metals are preferred for structural components, tools, and heat-resistant parts.

Summary of Technical Parameters

Parameter	Plastic Machining	Metal Machining
Cutting Speeds	150 – 1,000 SFM	60 – 600+ SFM
Tolerances	±0.001″ to ±0.005″	±0.0005″ to ±0.002″
Tool Material	Carbide, Diamond-coated	HSS, Carbide with TiN Coating
Thermal Sensitivity	High	Low
Coolant Use	Air or Mist cooling	Liquid coolant for heat control

This comparison highlights the critical adjustments required when machining plastic versus metal, ensuring optimal results for each material type.

Advantages of Using CNC Plastic Machining Services for Plastics

CNC plastic machining services have numerous benefits, especially if the requirements are precise and custom-made parts. Firstly, there is better production of intricate and complicated plastic components of the required quality because machining tolerances are highly accurate. Secondly, CNC machining enhances cost savings by reducing material wastage through path planning optimization, which is beneficial during prototyping and mass production. Lastly, various types of plastic, including ABS, PEEK, and HDPE, can be machined on a single machine, which broadens the range of uses, such as medical devices and components in the aerospace industry. The high accuracy, efficiency, and modification capabilities of CNC machines make it the best option for plastic machining services.

Which Plastics Are Suitable for CNC Machining?

CNC machining is compatible with many plastics due to its precision and adaptability. Commonly used plastics include:

1. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)

ABS is widely used in prototyping, automotive parts, and consumer products because of its strength, toughness, and impact resistance. It is an easy material to machine and provides excellent dimensional stability.

2. PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone)

This high-performance thermoplastic is valued for its mechanical strength, heat resistance, and chemical stability. PEEK is often used in aerospace, medical, and industrial applications where durability under extreme conditions is critical.

3. HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)

Its high strength-to-density ratio and resistance to moisture and chemicals make HDPE an excellent choice for piping, storage containers, and medical device applications.

4. Nylon (Polyamide)

Nylon is lightweight, wear-resistant, and has low friction, making it ideal for bushings, gears, and bearings in industrial machinery.

5. Polycarbonate (PC)

This impact-resistant, transparent material is used in applications requiring clarity and high strength, such as protective equipment, lenses, and enclosures.

Each material offers unique mechanical and chemical properties, making CNC machining an effective solution across diverse industries. Proper consideration of the plastic’s characteristics and the specific application requirements ensures optimal results.

Types of Plastic and Their Mechanical Properties

Each kind of plastic’s physical characteristics are essential for their selection in applications utilizing plastic materials in manufacturing. Provided below are some of the plastics that are used most, together with their most essential characteristics:

• Polycarbonate (PC): Polycarbonate is recognized for its tough plastic construction and excellent impact resistance, which allows it to be utilized in safety gear and clear structural parts. Polycarbonate is also useful when significant loads need to be borne with little deformation of the object.
• Polyethylene (PE): Polyethylene is ideal for use in a chemically exposed environment due to its low moisture absorption and high chemical resistance. The various density grades (HDPE, LDPE, etc.) allow for a spectrum of uses, ranging from heavy-duty industrial ruggedness to flexible, taking out the packaging stresses.
• Nylon (Polyamide): Nylon is one of the most polymer-composed plastics. It has a very low friction rate, which allows for long-lasting wear resistance. Pulleys, bearings, bushings, and gears are just a few mechanical hard parts where these plastics are used. Nylon is also a strong plastic that can be used in structural components where strength per weight determines popular use.

CNC techniques can produce components that can sustain great mechanical, thermodynamic, or chemical stress and serve multiple purposes by choosing the correct material for the required purpose. Precision plays a priority in decorating, and material specifications such as tensile strength, hardness, and elasticity make plastics ideal for particular use.

Evaluating Chemical Resistance and Surface Finish Requirements

When selecting a plastic material for CNC machining, it is advisable to consider the chemical resistance of the material as well as the surface finish, as these dictate the material’s usability in some environments. A material’s chemical resistance can, however, be defined as the ability of that material to be exposed to chemicals, solvents, or any other degrading elements without degrading in functionality or structure. PTFE (Teflon) and Polyethylene (PE) are some materials with good chemical resistance and commonly used in chemical plants or storage applications. For example, Teflon affords a maximum temperature of 260°C and is non-reactive with strong acids, bases, and organic solvents.

On the other hand, surface finish defines the smoothness and texture of a final machined part. Needs such as the final intended use of the surface, surface friction coefficients, and their general appearance affect the definition of how the surface would be finished. The geometry of the machined surface is influenced by cutting speed, depth of cut, and the tool used. Generally, plastic like ABS or Polycarbonate is used for applications that require a smooth surface and, with machining, can be finished to as low as 0.8 micron Ra (roughness average) or better.

When assessing materials for both chemical resistance and surface finish, consider the following technical parameters:

1. Chemical Compatibility:

• PTFE: Resistant to almost all chemicals, with a maximum operating temperature of 260°C.
• Polypropylene (PP): Highly resistant to acids and alkalis, operational up to 100°C.
• Polycarbonate (PC): Limited chemical resistance, avoid exposure to strong acids or solvents.

2. Surface Finish Achievability:

• With precision CNC machining, ABS and Polycarbonate can achieve a surface finish of 0.8 to 1.6 µm Ra.
• Due to machining challenges, UHMWPE (Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene) may require post-processing for smoother finishes.

3. Thermal Expansion and Stability:

• The coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) varies among plastics; for example:
• • PTFE has a CTE of approximately 120 x 10^-6/°C.
  • Polycarbonate has a CTE of around 65 x 10^-6/°C.

  By balancing chemical resistance and surface finish requirements alongside operational conditions, one can ensure the selection of a material that meets performance standards, longevity, and aesthetic precision.

Choosing the Right Plastic for Your Prototype or Production Part

In my work, when selecting the right plastic for a prototype or detailed model, I look at all the requirements involved in the application, including mechanical properties, thermal stability, and even chemical tolerance. Therefore, for instance, if there is a need for a high impact strength, then materials such as ABS, which has an Izod impact strength of ~200 J/m, would suffice, while suitable polycarbonate having an Izod impact strength of ~800 J/m would be better. In instances with more excellent thermal stability requirements, components like PEEK, which can work continuously at temperatures up to 250°C, are more efficient. Likewise, there are also considerations of dimensional tolerances, such as Acetal plastics with a low moisture content of around 0.2%, which are used for those parts with tighter tolerances. In this way, everything in terms of the material’s technical parameters is made to match the functional as well as the environmental factors of the design.

How to Ensure Precision and Quality in CNC Machined Plastic Parts?

High precision and accuracy in the CNC machined polymer components require utmost attention towards the material selection of thermal stability, mechanical strength, and dimensional tolerances. The use of appropriate cutting tools meant for plastics reduces the occurrence of burrs formation and surface roughness. Besides, feed rates, spindle speeds, and the coolant parameters must be optimized to minimize heat generation and consequent deformation of the material. CNC machines and tools are regularly serviced and calibrated to enhance the level of accuracy and repeatability that the machine can achieve. According to the drawings, measurement techniques like coordinate measuring machines are employed to check that the components manufactured are of the highest quality.

The Role of Tolerance in Precision Plastic Machining

Plastic components are used widely in several commercial applications, including the industries involved in electronics, medical devices, and aerospace components production. The automated production of plastic products requires high tolerance levels because even slight tolerances in manufacturing may render the final product unusable due to the end components failing to meet the given specifications. Investments in the industrial CNC machine tools enable the precision engineering sub-sector to meet the demand for high quality and tolerances between 5 μm (5 micrometers) to 500 μm (500 micrometers) depending on the types of material used and the end application of the plastic product. However, plastics have several weaknesses, such as elasticity and thermal expansions, which require control during machining to correct material flow properties and produce high-quality tolerances.

Additionally, it can be concluded that the subjectively chosen country of manufacture or design elaborates on the properties of a material and culminates intolerance as smaller than 10 microns while tightening polymers, PEEK or ABS, on the other hand, on the steeper end, would in the batch have polyethylene, softer and pliable, Having conclusively decided out of several tools sharpened and nonburr units ideal cutting edge speeds have to be regulated, Of note even after machining, the stresses within the unit can be reduced through annealing. This amalgamation helps retain aberration while achieving dimensional neutrality.

Solid laser scanning and other advanced inspection methods can alleviate tolerances to further control any of the above processes. Such systems and quality control allow for the certification of strands, wires, and components distributed into aerospace and medical compliance while the electronics can be used without high-performance loss.

Techniques to Achieve High-Quality Surface Finishes

In cases where fine surface finishes are required, I employ several techniques to optimize the finish. To start with, I choose the correct kind of material because the type of material that is used as the base often determines the kind of finish that will be produced. Polymers with a finer particle distribution or specific grades ideal for finishing are recommended. Then, several processes can be utilized, including advanced machining processes such as precision milling and grinding. Also, I use vapor smoothing or chemical polishing to obtain uniform microrelief and remove micro defects from the surface so that high-performance characteristics are obtained in a wide range of applications.

Maintaining Consistency in Custom Plastic Machining Services

A systematic framework for process control and quality management becomes indispensable in custom plastic machining services. Such an approach to machining entails determining spindle speed, feed rate, and depth of cut based on the specific plastic material in use. For example, spindle speeds of 6,000-12,000 RPM and feed rates of 0.1-0.5 mm/rev are selected to reduce heat buildup and subsequent deformation of materials. To this end, high-wear resistance precision tooling is put in place for repeat work, and regular calibration of the equipment is also an obligation to minimize variability.

During the entire process of production, strict procedural requirements are also implemented, including periodic assessments of surface roughness (Ra) and tolerances, which for most applications can fall between ±0.01 mm. Moreover, the temperature and humidity of the environment are recorded and controlled since they can change the material’s properties. To avoid off-specification components, in-depth documentation of the processes utilized and monitoring of the processes as they occur are done to enhance the quality of components produced. As a result, the ideal structural composition is realized in all components manufactured, improving reliability.

What are the Applications of CNC Plastic Machining?

Because of its distinct edge in achieving complicated shapes featuring tight tolerances, CNC plastic machining is employed in many industries. Such operations include manufacturing surgical instruments and joint components in the medical industry, producing lightweight brackets and housings in the aerospace industry, and dashboards and fluid reservoirs in the motor industry. The procedure is further applied to produce durable electronic cases, connectors, and custom-made parts and prototypes for industrial machines. Because of its flexibility and precision, it is also compatible with a wide range of materials, meaning that CNC plastic machining is an essential tool even in demanding engineering tasks.

From Prototypes to Production Parts: CNC Machining Applications

Regarding CNC machining in various projects, CNC allows me to focus on details and make changes to adapt the project to the specific case. For example, in the preliminary phases of the project, with the help of CNC machines, I can manufacture rather complicated shapes, check whether they work, and, if needed, remake them several times. When I move on to production parts, it is the same process that helps me change production volumes without losing accuracy. It does not matter whether I have to manufacture medical components, make parts for an aircraft, or use industrial machinery elements; CNC has always been a dependable approach for productivity to make components containing close tolerances, the best surfaces, and consistency of performance. This adaptation of CNC ensures that both short-run prototypes and long high-volume mass production are possible at excellent efficiency and cost.

Utilizing CNC Machining for Complex Plastic Components

CNC machining is a popular method for constructing complicated plastic parts with great accuracy and versatility across different sectors. Machinable materials such as ABS, polycarbonate, nylon, PEEK, and acrylics are often selected. Due to the precision of CNC machining, which can achieve tolerances as small as ±0.001 inches depending on materials and design specifications, it can be used when tight tolerances, complex shapes, or smooth surfaces are required.

Some benefits of machining plastic parts include producing lightweight components with excellent chemical and thermal stability. For example, PEEK has many applications in areas such as the aerospace industry and medical devices due to its strength and compatibility with the human body. Moreover, polypropylene is also one of the most sold plastics because of its ability to resist corrosion and survive harsh conditions.

While undertaking CNC machining plastics, the operators must consider parameters such as spindle speed, cutting speed, and feed rate. Because plastics are less ductile than metals, they have lower cutting speeds than metals, typically between 100 to 300 m/min, based on the material used. Similarly, when selecting the right tools, it is prudent to emphasize carbide or diamond-coated tools, which will assist in extending the tool’s useful life and increasing the quality of surface finishing. Using enough coolant or lubricant during the machining procedure minimizes excessive friction, making sure that the accurate dimensions are retained throughout the cutting process.

This process is consequently applied across many sectors of industries, such as medical, automotive, and consumer electronics, which are very intricate and tend to incorporate many complex plastic components. Technologies available today, such as cnc machining of plastics, allow for excellent production efficiency and mass manufacturing of plastic components of great strength alongside other physical characteristics due to the operator’s comprehension of the material properties and the machining parameters.

Exploring CNC Machining in Plastic Fabrication and Injection Molding

Considering that CNC machining is a crucial aspect of plastic fabrication and injection molding operations, several technical aspects must be considered to enhance the quality and accuracy of plastic components.

1. Spindle speed: The NEME allows for RPM between 10,000 and 20,000 of the spindle as the hardness of the plastic material varies. Exceeding the limit may lead to melting or distortion of the material.
2. Cutting Speed: Melting or distortion of the material has been reduced to a minimum throughout the cutting process, with plastic material with varying thicknesses requiring varying speeds from 100 to 300m/min. Softer polyethylene operates at a peak rate, while brittle ones like acrylic operate at a lower range to prevent cracking.
3. Feed Rate: The cut depth of 0.1 to 0.5 mm per epoch proves to be ideal and non-intrusive, preventing unintended material tears or edge chips that could lead to damage.
4. Tooling: Cutting into plastic leaves an abrasive on the cutter, but tooling with titanium or diamond-coated HSS makes it a durable option.
5. Cooling and Lubrication: Mist and air cooling methods maintain dimensional accuracy on plastic materials by displacing much of the heat produced without wetting the material. Additionally, any moisture that would be left behind is insignificant.
6. Tolerances: With CNC machining, parts, once made from plastic, can reach tolerances of up to ±0.05 mm. Tolerances this close are crucial for parts that are used in high-precision areas such as medicine and electronics, for instance, implants and casing.

Modifying these parameters to the manufactured components aids manufacturers in effective mass production without losing the functional capabilities of the designed parts.

How to Choose the Right CNC Plastic Machining Service?

If you want to have CNC plastic machining done by a contractor, there are several things that you’ll have to consider to make the best decision and execute your project correctly, such as:

1. Material Knowledge: When approaching the provider, ensure they have adapted to your material needs since they all vary in machining.
2. Facilities and Resources: Check whether the center contains a sophisticated CNC machining configuration for plastics, including high-speed steel tools and a means of cooling a tool, to be precise, without harming the workpiece.
3. Precision: Verify whether the machining service provider will be able to sustain the demand for tolerances required to finish, especially when the components are used in highly precision-mandated industries like the medical or aerospace sectors.
4. Assessment: It is essential to look for certifications such as ISO 9001, which reveal an agency’s standard of quality assurance control practices. You should also ask about their inspection methods to ensure specification compliance.
5. Production and Growth: Evaluate their production scope and capability to deliver the product at the required time and measure their growth for future checks on prototypes and high output.
6. Pricing: The cost of a contractor’s services is crucial. At times, a company will pay a higher cost, but this should not be a problem as long as the company is reliable and provides great results.

You know what matters most, and you now really appreciate the importance of communication, so follow these aspects and find a CNC plastic machining supplier that will truly benefit your project.

Evaluating Machining Capabilities and CNC Milling Options

While evaluating machining capabilities and CNC milling options, multiple service providers became apparent in my mind, and, in a way, they can satisfy my project requirements. I first check the material compatibility of the service provider to ascertain that they can machine the required type of plastic for my application. This is particularly true for those who use engineering plastics or specialty polymers. Second, I try to determine whether they can meet the promised tolerances consistently by looking into their experience working in high-precision industries. Finally, I base my attention on those providers who have developed measures that assure compliance with basic requirements, such as ISO certification and sound inspection practices, to ensure that orders are made within tight specifications. These factors ensure that the partner may be selected to achieve reliability and accuracy in results.

Factors to Consider for Custom CNC Machining Services

When selecting custom CNC machining services, there are several essential factors to evaluate to ensure the provider aligns with your technical and project requirements:

1. Material Selection and Expertise

Verify that the service provider can machine the specific material required for your project, including metals like aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium or plastics such as ABS, PEEK, and polycarbonate. Additionally, confirm their ability to handle specialty materials, if needed, and ensure the provider has experience machining materials with similar properties for your application.

2. Precision and Tolerances

Determine the machining tolerances they can achieve, with typical precision ranging from ±0.005 inches (for general applications) to ±0.0002 inches for high-precision components. High-tolerance requirements are often crucial for aerospace, automotive, and medical device manufacturing industries. Evaluate if their equipment, such as 5-axis CNC machines, supports consistent precision in complex designs.

3. Surface Finish and Post-Processing Options

Check if the provider offers a variety of surface finish options (e.g., polished, anodized, bead-blasted) and post-processing services such as heat treatment or coating. Specific surface roughness values, such as Ra 1.6 μm or Ra 0.8 μm, may be required for certain parts depending on their function and aesthetic needs.

4. Production Capabilities

Assess the provider’s ability to handle the volume and scale of your project. For prototyping, ensure they can deliver quick-turnaround jobs, while for mass production, evaluate their capacity for scalability, manufacturing speed, and cost efficiency.

5. Quality Standards and Certifications

Ensure the provider adheres to recognized standards such as ISO 9001 for quality management or AS9100 for aerospace manufacturing. Additionally, inquire about their inspection technologies, such as CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machines) and optical scanners, to maintain strict quality control. Consider their warranty on delivered parts as an indication of their commitment to quality.

6. Cost and Lead Times

Request a detailed quotation that includes machining costs, material expenses, setup charges, and expected shipping times. Ensure the service provider can balance competitive pricing with reasonable lead times, typically 1-3 weeks for standard projects or faster for rapid prototyping.

By considering these factors and requesting sample parts or case studies, you can confidently select a CNC machining partner tailored to your technical specifications and project goals.

References

Milling (machining)

Machining

Plastic

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is CNC plastic machining, and how does it differ from other manufacturing services?

A: CNC plastic machining involves using computer numerical control (CNC) to cut and shape plastic materials into desired components precisely. Unlike other manufacturing services like 3D printing, which is additive, CNC machining is subtractive, removing material to produce parts.

Q: How does 5-axis CNC machining enhance the production of complex plastic parts?

A: 5-axis CNC machining allows the creation of complex parts by enabling the cutting tool to move along five different axes. This capability provides greater flexibility and precision when machining parts requiring intricate detailing or challenging geometries.

Q: Can CNC plastic machining be used for prototypes and production parts?

A: CNC plastic machining is versatile and can be used to create prototypes and production parts. The process is well-suited for producing custom parts and allows for tight tolerances and high precision.

Q: What plastic materials can be used in CNC plastic machining?

A: Many materials can be used in CNC plastic machining, including those with low moisture absorption and strength. Common choices include ABS, polycarbonate, acrylic, and nylon, each selected based on the specific requirements of the machine parts.

Q: How does CNC plastic machining compare to 3D printing regarding precision and material options?

A: CNC plastic machining generally offers greater precision and can achieve tighter tolerances than 3D printing. Additionally, CNC machining works with a wide range of materials, including metal and plastic, providing more options for achieving desired mechanical properties.

Q: What role does CAD play in the CNC plastic machining process?

A: CAD, or computer-aided design, is crucial in CNC plastic machining. It creates detailed digital models of the parts to be machined, which guide the CNC machine in cutting and shaping the material to precise specifications.

Q: How does using a lathe and cutting tools in CNC machining contribute to manufacturing?

A: In CNC machining, a lathe is often used for CNC turning, which rotates the workpiece against a cutting tool to remove material. This process is essential for creating symmetrical parts and contributes to the overall efficiency and precision of the manufacturing process.

Q: What advantages does CNC plastic machining offer in producing custom parts?

A: CNC plastic machining offers significant advantages for producing custom parts, including handling complex designs and achieving high precision. It supports the creation of small batches or one-off pieces, making it ideal for custom applications.

Q: How do state-of-the-art CNC technologies impact the quality of plastic machined parts?

A: State-of-the-art CNC technologies significantly enhance the quality of plastic machined parts by improving accuracy and consistency. These advanced systems enable the production of parts with tight tolerances and smooth finishes, ensuring the final product meets high standards.