Thermoplastics, also known as thermosoftening plastics, are a group of materials that are used for injection moulding. Once specific high temperatures are met, these plastics used for injection moulding can be manipulated to suit several applications. You’ll find these in various sectors, including dentistry and aerospace.
However, not all plastics are suitable for moulding. In today’s article, we will outline the best thermoplastics for injection moulding and why they offer faultless performance. Focusing on many plastics such as ABS, acrylic and polystyrene, you can determine the suitable materials for your business’s projects.
As one of the leading plastic injection moulding companies in the West Midlands, we are experts in determining ideal materials for all types of applications.
What Is The Process Of Thermoplastics Moulding?
To mould thermoplastics, they must be heated to specific temperatures for ease of manipulation. Once hot, pellets soften and can even turn to a liquid state if additional heat is applied. Unlike other moulding systems such as thermosets, which produce permanent moulds through a chemical bond, this plastics injection moulding process is reversible.
But, what plastics are used for injection moulding?
The Best Thermoplastic Materials
Acrylic
Most commonly referred to as Plexiglas, Perspex or Lucite, acrylic is a transparent and lightweight thermoplastic. This material is often in use as a competent alternative to glass. Its durable properties are resistant to shattering and are aesthetically pleasing.
Polyester
This material is generally in use for industrial applications such as conveyor belts, yarns, tyre reinforcements and fibres, polyester. Additionally, polyester is found in clothing and furniture. Polyester is an effective plastic for injection moulding as it holds impeccable mechanical, electrical and thermal properties. Furthermore, it is resistant to chemicals and offers dimensional stability.
ABS
ABS, also known as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, is another lightweight thermoplastic. Its popularity stems from its ease and low cost in production.
Polypropylene
Polypropylene or polypropene is a fantastic plastic suitable for injection moulding. Most commonly used in packaging and labelling, as well as textiles such as stationery and carpets. This thermoplastic is widely known for its resistance to most chemicals, acids and bases.
Cellulose Acetate
While it’s not a thermoplastic by nature, cellulose acetate is sought after due to its wide availability. It’s primarily in use in photography and eyeglass frames.
Polystyrene
This material can be both a thermoplastic or a thermoset. When it’s a thermoplastic, it’s mainly in use for smoke detector casing, disposable cutlery and packaging. Being moderately strong, this is one of our plastics for injection moulding that’s highly versatile.
Nylon
Polyketones such as nylon are optimum performing thermoplastics due to their impressive mechanical properties. Nylon is best ffor carpets, ropes, musical instruments and fabrics.
Teflon
Last on our list of plastics for injection moulding is Teflon. Teflon is most effective for reducing friction and wear in cookware and energy consumption in machinery.
There are many plastics for injection moulding available to your business. However, here at Stephens Plastics, we have adopted the best systems and materials for all major industries. With decades of experience in injection moulding, we can guarantee optimum performance for your company’s projects. Get in touch with us today for information on our plastic injection moulding services on 0121 544 5808. Furthermore, if you enjoyed reading this blog, why not take a look at a previous one: What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Injection Moulding?