A Guide for B2B Companies Looking for the Best Material for Injection Moulding
As a plastic injection moulding company, we know how important it is to select a suitable material for your final product. It is crucial for ensuring that your product holds the right properties, such as durability, flexibility and corrosion resistance. Additionally, it needs to deliver the aesthetics you require for your project.
Continue reading to discover the key factors you should consider when selecting the best material for your injection moulding.
Consider the Function and Environment of the Final Product
Firstly, when selecting the best plastic for your injection moulding, you need to consider the function and environment which your product will be used in. For instance, if your product will be exposed to high temperatures, you need a plastic that can withstand the heat without melting or losing its form. Similarly, if your product will be exposed to chemicals, you need a plastic that is resistant to corrosion.
Here are some of the factors that you should consider before you choose the best material for your injection moulding:
Strength:
If your product will be used in high-friction or high-load applications, you need a plastic that can withstand heavy usage and weight. For instance, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is a solid and vigorous plastic. So, it is ideal for products that require impact resistance, such as automotive parts, toys, and electronic housings.
Flexibility:
If you require flexibility in your product, you need a plastic that can bend and stretch without snapping or splitting. Polypropylene (PP), for instance, is an easy-to-manipulate and lightweight plastic. Therefore, it is ideal for products that require high clarity and resistance to moisture. Such as, food packaging, medical devices, and laboratory equipment.
Colour:
If the colour of your final outcome is crucial, you need a plastic that can be dyed or is available in the colour you require. Polycarbonate (PC) is a strong and transparent plastic that is ideal for products that need impact resistance and optical clarity. Such as:
- eyewear,
- automotive parts,
- and electronic displays.
It can also be coloured using various methods, including pigments and dyes.
Environment:
If your product will be exposed to outdoor or harsh environments, you need a plastic resistant to UV rays and other environmental factors. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is a robust and durable plastic. Consequently, it is ideal for products that require resistance to fire and chemicals. Such as pipes, fittings, and electrical insulation. It is also resistant to UV rays and weathering, making it suitable for outdoor applications.
Remember that these are just a few examples of the plastics available for injection moulding at Stephens Plastics.
The Different Types of Plastics
All materials come with strengths and weaknesses. At Stephens Plastic Mouldings Ltd, we offer a range of different types of plastics, each with its own unique characteristics. Additionally to the ones mentioned above, here is a summary of the various types of plastics that we offer:
Glass-Filled Nylon
Glass-filled nylon is a type of reinforced plastic that is high in strength. It is made by adding glass fibres to nylon resin to improve its mechanical properties. This material offers excellent tensile durability and stiffness, making it ideal for parts that require rigidity.
It is also resistant to wear, chemicals, and impact. Therefore, allowing for suitability to a variety of applications such as automotive parts, electrical connectors, and consumer goods.
Acrylic
Acrylic is a transparent plastic that offers high optical clarity and transparency. It is a lightweight and versatile material that is resistant to UV rays and weathering. This material is often used in applications that require high clarity and transparency, such as:
- signage,
- lighting fixtures,
- and display cases.
Acetol
Acetol, also known as polyoxymethylene (POM), is a thermoplastic material with high stiffness and dimensional stability. It is a tough and durable material that is resistant to wear, chemicals, and moisture. Companies can use Acetol in applications such as gears, bearings, and electrical components.
Makrolon
Makrolon, also known as polycarbonate (PC), is a sturdy material with high-impact resistance and toughness. It can also withstand UV rays and weathering, making it suitable for outdoor applications too. Companies use this material for automotive parts, safety glasses, and medical devices.
Comparing Material Prices and Characteristics
Once you have identified the desired function and environment of your final product and the type of plastic you require, the last step is to compare material prices and their characteristics with your budget. Please note that we offer competitive prices for our plastic injection moulding services and provide custom quotes based on your specific requirements.
Get in Touch Today
Choosing the best plastic for injection moulding is crucial for ensuring that your final product suits its purpose. At Stephens Plastic Mouldings Ltd, we offer a range of different types of plastics to suit your specific needs and price point. If you need help choosing a suitable material for your product, please get in touch with our team today at sales@stephensplasticmouldings.co.uk.