Which plastic for injection molding? A comprehensive analysis %%page%%

Which plastic for injection molding? A comprehensive analysis %%page%% - assemblean

Polycarbonate (PC)
Polycarbonate offers excellent impact resistance and high dimensional stability. It is ideal for applications that require a robust and transparent material quality, such as hearing aid housings, spectacle lenses and bulletproof glass. Due to the bisphenol A it contains, PC is less suitable for food storage.
Polystyrene (PS)
Polystyrene comes in two main varieties: high impact polystyrene (HIPS) and general purpose polystyrene (GPPS). GPPS is transparent and is often used for packaging and disposable items. HIPS is used in electronic housings and toolboxes. Even though they are often inexpensive, polystyrene rolls are not particularly environmentally friendly, as they are not biodegradable, for example.
Semi-crystalline thermoplastics
Polyoxymethylene (POM - also known as acetal)
POM is an engineering thermoplastic known for its high rigidity, strength and low friction. It is often used in the manufacture of gears, fasteners and handle shapes. Despite its excellent mechanical properties, POM is not resistant to certain acids.
Acrylic (PMMA - polymethyl methacrylate)
Acrylic glass impresses with its outstanding transparency and high tear resistance. It is a popular alternative to glass and is often used for windows, transparent housings and lighting elements. Acrylic is odorless and tasteless, which also makes it suitable for food packaging.
Nylon (PA - polyamide)
Nylon is characterized by high strength, toughness and excellent wear resistance. It is often used for automotive parts such as gears, bushings and bearing balls. Thanks to its high melting temperature and chemical resistance, nylon is particularly suitable for mechanically stressed applications.
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)
ABS is a versatile plastic that is tough, dimensionally stable and impact-resistant. Due to its good bondability and mechanical properties, it is often used for electronic housings, automotive parts and toys. However, ABS can be prone to weld lines and sink marks, which can be reduced by blending with polycarbonate.
Polypropylene (PP)
Polypropylene impresses with its high resistance to chemicals and moisture. It is flexible, wear-resistant and offers high impact strength, which makes it ideal for packaging, automotive parts and medical applications. However, PP can become brittle at low temperatures.
Polyethylene (PE)
Polyethylene is light, tough and offers excellent electrical insulating properties. It is often used for household items, packaging and children's toys. Despite its lower strength, PE is a popular injection molding plastic due to its versatility and resistance to many chemicals.
(Thermoplastic) elastomers
Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)
TPU combines elastomeric properties with high tensile and tear strength. It is used for rubber-like parts, cable insulation and sporting goods. TPU is easy to process and can be molded at high temperatures.
Thermoplastic elastomers (TPE)
TPE combines properties of rubber and thermoplastics, which makes them flexible and impact-resistant. They are often used for seals, flexible connections and soft handles. TPEs are recyclable and offer good resistance to chemicals and weathering.

Find the right process faster

Which plastic for injection molding? A comprehensive analysis

Introduction

Overview of plastic types in injection molding

Thermoplastics

Amorphe Thermoplastics

Semi-crystalline thermoplastics

(Thermoplastic) elastomers

Duroplastics

Important criteria when selecting the plastic

Sustainability in injection molding

Innovations and trends in injection molding

Conclusion and future outlook

Latest insights

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