Plastic injection molding is a highly versatile process that accommodates a wide range of plastics and resins, including:
- Acetal. Acetal-also known as polyoxymethylene (POM)-is a durable and dimensionally stable thermoplastic with excellent chemical, creep, and wear resistance. It is often used for the manufacture of contacting parts such as belt buckles and engineering components such as bearings and bushings.
- Acrylic. Acrylic-also referred to as poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA)-is a transparent and rigid plastic valued for its light transmission and weathering properties. Typical applications include use as a more durable alternative to glass in pictures frames, car windows, and eyeglasses.
- Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). ABS is a strong and rigid thermoplastic that offers excellent moldability and glossy, colorfast surface finishes. It is suitable for the manufacture of a wide range of products that do not require high chemical, electrical, or UV resistance, such as indoor appliances, children’s toys, and luggage.
- High-impact polystyrene (HIPS). Polystyrene is a low-cost plastic that is highly machinable and customizable and demonstrates good impact resistance and dimensional stability. As it readily accommodates printing, gluing, bonding, and decorating, it is often used in printing and other graphical arts applications, such as posters, signs, and displays.
- Low-density and high-density polyethylene (LDPE/HDPE). LDPE and HDPE are polyethylene variations. LDPE offers greater flexibility and a lower melting point, while HDPE provides greater rigidity and a higher melting point. Both materials are used for the manufacture of a variety of products, ranging from packaging to toys.
- Nylon. Nylon-also known as polyamide-is a highly durable plastic material with excellent chemical, temperature, and abrasion resistance. It is easily combined with other chemicals to enhance certain features for use in a wide range of industrial and consumer products.
- Polycarbonate (PC). Polycarbonate is a strong and lightweight plastic that can be used as a more durable alternative to glass and acrylic. It is useful for products that require the same clarity with greater strength, such as medical equipment, CDs, light fixtures, and greenhouse windows.
- Polypropylene (PP). PP is a widely used thermoplastic valued for its durability, elasticity, transmissivity, and insulating properties. It is often used in automotive, household, and medical components.
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC). PVC is a widely used thermoplastic with great tensile strength, high chemical and heat resistance, and durability. Its waterproof nature makes it particularly useful for pipes and plumbing fixtures. PVC blends easily with other plastics and is often compounded with other plastics to enhance its strength and impact resistance.
- Polyether ether ketone (PEEK). PEEK is a high-performance thermoplastic that is strong, durable, and highly tolerant of gamma radiation and sterilization processes. These qualities make it suitable for use in sensitive products, such as those found in the medical and aerospace industries.