Engineering Plastics
Engineering plastics can withstand high levels of mechanical stress, and that’s why they are used in many mechanical applications under harsh conditions. Certain engineering plastics offer high strength, heat, and chemical resistance properties, making them suitable for manufacturing functional components. These plastics can be machined to precise specifications with a Plastic CNC machining process or 3D printed to create functional parts that complement metal components in assemblies. Some of the most commonly used machining plastics are:
ABS
ABS is a thermoplastic polymer with three monomers: acrylonitrile, butadiene, and styrene. It offers a balance of properties, including good impact resistance, rigidity, heat resistance, and dimensional stability. It exhibits excellent processability. Hence, it is used to prototype parts before injection molding.
HDPE
HDPE is a versatile thermoplastic polymer known for its high strength-to-density ratio, excellent chemical resistance, and durability. Due to its high toughness, it is commonly used in making fuel tanks, bumper fascia, and interior trim.
Nylon
Nylon is a synthetic thermoplastic polymer valued for its abrasion resistance and exceptional toughness. It offers high tensile strength, flexibility, wear, chemicals, and moisture resistance. Nylon’s grades are also used in machinery, automotive, and aerospace applications.
PEEK
PEEK is a semi-crystalline, high-performance engineering thermoplastic. This material offers a unique combination of mechanical properties, resistance to chemicals, wear, fatigue and creep, and exceptionally high-temperature resistance, up to 260°C (480°F).
Derlin
Derlin is a high-performance engineering thermoplastic used in precision parts requiring high stiffness, low friction, and excellent dimensional stability.
PETG
PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol-Modified) is a commonly used thermoplastic polymer and is typically known for impact resistance. It also offers good chemical resistance and low moisture absorption, which is why it is used in manufacturing laboratory or medical equipment.
PVC
PVC is a synthetic thermoplastic polymer that exhibits durability and chemical resistance. However, it can be softened and made more flexible by adding plasticizers.
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonates are a group of thermoplastic polymers comprising carbonate groups. They can withstand high pressure without shattering, making them ideal for applications where safety is important, like protective equipment.
PTFE
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a fluoropolymer with exceptional chemical resistance and low friction coefficient. It has a high heat resistance. It exhibits non-stick properties and withstands a wide temperature range from -200°C to 260°C.