When it comes to plastic injection moulding services, depending on the product that is being made, there are many different types of plastic that can be used. Plastic injection moulding is one of the most common processes for manufacturing parts. In addition, it can be in use across a wide range of industries. Thermoplastic is a type of plastic people use in the injection moulding process – they are polymers that can soften and solidify repeatedly.
Some of the most common thermoplastics used for plastic injection moulding are:
- Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
- Polyethylene
- Polycarbonate
- Nylon
- Polypropylene
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
Often referred to as ABS, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene is an opaque thermoplastic that is flexible and lightweight. A key advantage of using this thermoplastic is that you can modify it to enhance its properties. Such as its heat and impact resistance. The final properties that the material has before moulding will be those of the final product. So, any modifications required need to be made before the process takes place. Moulding ABS at a high temperature however, will improve its glossy finish and its heat resistance. Moulding at a lower temperature will obtain its high strength and impact resistance.
Polyethylene
Considered as one of the most versatile and popular plastics on the market, Polyethylene has a high tensile strength and impact resistance. It is also incredibly ductile with a great resistance to moisture absorption too. As a general rule of thumb, the higher the density of polyethylene used, the stronger, rigid, and more heat resistant the product will be. Items such as plastic bags, plastic films, and bottles are commonly made from polyethylene.
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is a transparent plastic that also has high levels of impact resistance. It is ideal for applications where transparency is a requirement – such as bullet-proof glass. Unlike many other thermoplastics, polycarbonate (often known as PC) can undergo deformations without breaking. PC is often the material in use to manufacture lenses, medical devices, DVDs and greenhouses.
Nylon
Polyamide, which people often refer to as nylon, can be used in lots of different applications due its electrical properties, wear resistance, and chemical resistance. With a resistance to plenty of external factors such as chemicals, impact, and abrasion, Nylon is perfect for many different parts such as sports equipment, automotive components, medical products, and footwear.
Polypropylene
Favoured for its flexibility, polypropylene has a high melting point, high impact strength, and great resistance to cracking. It is also safe for use around food. Therefore, it is often in use for utensils and food containers.
Plastic Injection Moulding Companies
If you are looking for plastic injection moulding companies, then look no further than Stephens Plastics. We have years of experience and knowledge under our belts. Therefore, we have got all the answers you need when it comes to plastic injection moulding materials. We are proud to offer plastic injection moulding services in the UK for a wide range of industries. With plenty of equipment, we can accommodate a wealth of small and large product batch requirements.
If you would like to find out more about thermoplastic materials used in plastic injection moulding, then explore our website today. Alternatively, you can call 0121 544 5808 to speak to a member of our team.
If you have found this blog helpful, you may wish to read our previous blog: What Is Plastic Rapid Prototyping?