Plastics
Various types of plastics are available in the market, one is petroleum based and others are bio-based. PMMA or Poly(methyl methacrylate , TPU or Thermoplastic Polyurethane, EVA or Ethyl Vinyl Acetate, LDPE/HDPE or Low/High Density Polyethylene, PVC or Polyvinyl chloride, ABS or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene are few to name.
There are more than 85,000 commercial options or alternatives of plastics available. The selection of appropriate grade of plastic also depends on the process of manufacturing example Extrusion, Injection molding, blow molding or blow film molding.
Our dedicated consultants possess a deep understanding of plastics, their properties, and applications. Leveraging this knowledge, we assist you in choosing the optimal plastic materials that meet your specific requirements in terms of performance, durability, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. Trust our expertise to guide you towards the right plastic solutions, enabling you to unlock innovation, enhance product quality, and achieve success in a rapidly evolving plastic-driven world.
The relevant properties for proper selection are
- Mechanical
(Density, resistance, flexibility, rigidity, hardness, ductility, creep) - Thermal
(Fusion point, specific heat, thermal expansion, thermal conductivity, aging) - Electrical
(Conductivity, dielectric rigidity, dielectric constant, arc resistance, and comparative tracking index) - Cost
(Workability level, processing techniques, trimmings recycling)
- Chemical
(Solubility, oxidation, corrosion, stress-cracking) - Optical
(Refractive index, transparency, absorption, color) - Fire Resistance
(Flame, glow-wire, arc, density, and toxicity of the fumes, auto-ignition temperature)
How we come in role of selection of plastic and its process
We work on the following steps behind the selection of materials in order to give our clients the solution that suits best.
- General information: what’s the function of the part? In which conditions is it used? Is there a preferred production method? For how long is it likely to be used?
- Specific requirements: does the product have to comply with specific requirements coming from official institutions (e.g. food regulations, ATEX)? How high is the part’s maximum tolerance to stress?
- Usage space: at which temperature will the part be subjected during its normal functioning? Does the work environment present unusual features, e.g. the presence of chemicals?
- Structural needs: at which type of load will the product be subjected? Is there a specific need for stiffness and impact resistance?
- Aesthetical needs: will the end product need to have a specific external appearance? Will it need to be painted?
- Manufacturing method: is there the need to glue some parts together or perform side refinishing procedures?
- Economic aspects: what’s the desired target price? Is it possible to use recycled material?
- Environmental aspects: does the product fall under particular regulations concerning its disposal? Does it have to be recyclable?
Our Engineering Offerings
In summary, our capabilities include the following
Finite Element Stress Analysis
Materials Selection
Failure Analysis
Reverse Engineering – Design and Materials
Manufacturing process selection
Plastic Selection Guide