Basic Thermoplastic Resin Material
Thermoplastic polymers, or resins, are the base materials used in the injection molding process. These plastics belong to different families, each with unique properties and grades. Because each family has its own advantages, it is important to choose one that fits your application. Start by considering the environment and exposure your product will encounter.
Because this process is difficult, and there are so many options, it is hard to decide which plastic to use. The table below will help you start on the right path for researching the right material for your part. This table is not definitive, as there are many formulations for the same base. If you need help getting started, or if you want to discuss whether material is right for you, give us a call. We can make suggestions and set a meeting with a preferred material supplier.
Main Properties of Thermoplastic Polymers:
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Heat-resistance
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Chemical resistance
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UV Resistance
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Moisture resistance
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Flame Retardant
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Toughness
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Hardness
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Flexibility
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Stability
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Elasticity
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Strength
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Weight
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Mass Density (Spec. Gravity)
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Clarity
Plastic Molding Resin Guide
How to use this guide:
Used this guide to compare materials as a starting point for doing research. (DISCLAIMER) The information provided herein is general in nature and is based upon averages, nominal ranges, estimates, non-specified grades of materials in their natural form, and readily available public information. Users must perform their own studies and testing of materials. ALL WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE, ARE EXCLUDED AND DISCLAIMED. Plastics Plus Technology, Inc. assumes no responsibility or liability of any kind for this guide or for the information contained.
Used this guide to compare materials as a starting point for doing research. (DISCLAIMER) The information provided herein is general in nature and is based upon averages, nominal ranges, estimates, non-specified grades of materials in their natural form, and readily available public information. Users must perform their own studies and testing of materials. ALL WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE, ARE EXCLUDED AND DISCLAIMED. Plastics Plus Technology, Inc. assumes no responsibility or liability of any kind for this guide or for the information contained.
| Material | Full Name | Features | Applications | Mass Density (g/cm) | Shrinkage (in/in) | Clarity | Tonnage per Sq.In | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABS | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene | Flame retardant; impact resistant | Automotive; medical; electrical; appliances; toys | 1.02-1.05 | 0.005 | Translucent | 2.5-3.5 | $ |
| ASA | Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate | Toughness; chemical, heat, and weather/UV resistant | Automotive; outdoor applications; electrical | 1.07 | 0.004-0.007 | Opaque | 2.5-3.5 | $$ |
| EVA | Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate | Softness; flexibility; clarity; gloss | Sporting goods; medical; foam; rubber replacement | 0.92-0.97 | 0.007-0.020 | Transparent | 2.0-3.0 | $ |
| HDPE | High-Density Polyethylene | Rigidity; moisture resistant; food contact | Packaging; food; industrial | 0.935-0.96 | 0.025-0.035 | Opaque | 2.5-3.5 | $ |
| HIPS | High-Impact Polystyrene | Impact-resistant; flame retardant; food contact | Food; packaging | 1.04 | 0.003-0.007 | Transparent | 2.0-2.5 | $ |
| LDPE | Low-Density Polyethylene | Chemical resistance; flexibility; toughness; gloss | Packaging; food; industrial | 0.91-0.925 | 0.015-0.026 | Transparent or opague | 2.0-3.0 | $ |
| LLDPE | Linear Low-Density Polyethylene | High tensile strength; high impact resistance; flexibility | Bags; packaging; toys; covers; lids; containers | 0.918-0.94 0 | 0.015-0.035 | Translucent | 2.0-3.0 | $ |
| PA6 | Polyamide 6 (Nylon 6) | Heat and chemical resistance; impact modified | Automotive; electrical; industrial; consumer; engineering | 1.13 | 0.009-0.012 | Opaque | 3.0-4.0 | $$ |
| PA66 | Polyamide 66 (Nylon 66) | Heat and chemical resistance; impact modified | Automotive; electrical; industrial; consumer; engineering | 1.14 | 0.015-0.020 | Opaque | 3.0-4.0 | $$ |
| PA66 30% Glass-filled | 30% Glass Filled Polyamide (Nylon 66) | High rigidity, hardness, and strength; high stability | Automotive; electrical; industrial; consumer; engineering | 1.22-1.49 | 0.003-0.008 | Opaque | 4.0-5.0 | $$ |
| PBT | Polybutylene Terephthalate (Polyester) [Valox] | Chemical and heat resistant; mechanical strength | Electrical; automotive; showerheads; irons | 1.31 | 0.012-0.023 | Opaque | 3.0-4.0 | $$ |
| PC | Polycarbonate [Lexan] | High impact strength; clarity; flame retardant | Electrical; lighting; automotive; appliances; medical | 1.2 | 0.005-0.007 | Transparent | 4.0-5.0 | $$ |
| PC + ABS | Polycarbonate + ABS [Cycoloy] | Toughness; dimensional stability; low moisture absorption | Appliances; automotive; electrical; consumer; medical | 1.08-1.22 | 0.005-0.007 | Opaque | 3.0-4.0 | $$ |
| PEEK | Polyether Ether Ketone | Mechanical and chemical resistance | Bearings; piston parts; aerospace; automotive; medical; chemical processing | 1.30-1.50 | 0.010-0.020 | Opaque | 5 | $$$ |
| PEI | Polyetherimide [Ultem] | High tensile strength; flame retardant; chemical resistant | Electrical; aerospace; medical; lighting; appliances | 1.27 | 0.006 | Translucent | 4.0-6.0 | $$$ |
| PET | Polyethylene Terephthalate (Dacron) | Lightweight; moisture barrier; strength; impact resistant | Bottles; food packaging | 1.44-1.73 | 0.002 | Transparent | 4.0-5.0 | $$ |
| PMMA | Polymethyl Methacrylate (Acrylic) | High clarity; weather, heat, and chemical resistant | Glass substitute; automotive; lighting; medical; lenses; optics | 1.19 | 0.002-0.006 | Transparent | 3.0-4.0 | $ |
| POM | Polyoxymethylene (Acetal) [Celcon; Delrin] | Lubricated; wear and chemical resistant; stiffness | Automotive; industrial; mechanical; electrical | 1.41-1.42 | 0.018-0.035 | Opaque | 3.0-4.0 | $$ |
| PP | Polypropylene Copolymer | Impact-resistant; lightness; food contact | Automotive; industrial; mechanical; electrical | 0.9 | 0.010-0.025 | Opaque | 2.5-3.5 | $ |
| PP | Polypropylene Homopolymer | Impact-resistant; lightness; food contact | Automotive; household; electrical; packaging | 0.902 | 0.010-0.025 | Translucent | 2.5-3.5 | $ |
| PPE | Polyphenylene Ether | Electrical properties; flame retardant; chemical resistance; low moisture absorption | Electrical; appliances; construction; automotive | 1.13 | 0.006 | Translucent | 3.0-4.0 | $$ |
| PPS | Polyphenylene Sulfide | Chemical and fire resistance; thermal and dimensional stability | Automotive; electrical; industrial; appliances | 1.40-2.00 | 0.003-0.010 | Opaque | 3.5-4.5 | $$ |
| PS | Polystyrene (GPPS) | Impact-resistant; flame retardant; food contact | Packaging; electrical; toys; appliances | 1.05 | 0.003-0.007 | Transparent | 2.0-2.5 | $ |
| PVC | Polyvinyl Chloride | Flame retardant; high impact resistance | Industrial; electronic | 1.22 | 0.002 | Opaque | 2.0-3.0 | $ |
| SAN | Styrene Acrylonitrile | Chemical and heat resistance; clarity | Electrical; appliances; automotive | 1.06 | 0.002-0.005 | Transparent | 2.5-3.5 | $$ |
| TPE | Thermoplastic Elastomer | Elasticity; chemical and weather-resistant | Rubber substitute; automotive; seals; overmolding | 0.87-1.20 | 0.017-0.047 | Translucent | 2.5-3.5 | $$ |
| TPU | Thermoplastic Polyurethane | Range of hardness grades; abrasion and chemical resistant | Footwear; sporting goods; wheels; seals | 1.01-1.23 | 0.012-0.017 | Transparent | 2.5-3.5 | $$ |
| TPV | Thermoplastic Vulcanizate [Santoprene] | Strength; flexibility; lightweight | Automotive; appliances; electrical; construction; healthcare; industrial | 0.92-0.97 | 0.010-0.050 | Transparent | 2.5-3.5 | $$ |
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Plastics Plus Technology is a woman-owned, USA contract manufacturer based in sunny Southern California. Our custom injection molding and value-added services can provide you with a one-stop job shop for all your injection molding needs.
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