With a growing demand for plastic materials in different applications, engineering thermoplastics are developed to offer high performance in heat resistance, fire retardancy, mechanical strength or chemical resistance. Generally, engineering thermoplastics are known to exhibit heat resistance at high temperatures beyond 100 degree Celsius and also offers good flame retardant properties.
Different varieties of engineering thermoplastics can be created by blending two or more resins depending on the required properties. Thermoplastics are known to provide a cost effective and corrosion resistant alternative to different types of metals in various applications. A wide range of Engineering Thermoplastics are available in sheets, plates, tubes and rods which offers myriad advantages over metallic materials and also offers excellent mechanical and thermal properties.
As a production material, Engineering thermoplastics show reduction in weight, provide electrical and thermal insulation, offers great mechanical strength, durability, superior corrosion and chemical resistance, and ease of processing. The selection of the right set of engineering thermoplastics is an important decision and definitely a daunting task. It is important to consider the application requirements and choose engineering thermoplastics accordingly.
A few common types of Engineering plastics and their general uses are discussed below. The below information will help in your search for the perfect engineering thermoplastics for your application.
- ABS Sheets – They are available in a wide range of color and texture finishes and offers a lot of versatility.
- Polyethylene – Different variations are available in the market which are tailored to suit specific market requirements.
- Acetal & Delrin sheets are considered as one of the strongest among all engineered thermoplastics.
- Nylon -With their excellent properties and use in various applications, it is one of the most popular engineering plastics.
- Polycarbonate – With a high heat resistance, it also offers chemical and water resistance.
- Polypropylene – For applications exposed to cold temperature, PPC and PPH grades are highly preferred.
- PTFE – It offers unrivalled chemical, thermal and electrical performance.
Additives can modify the properties of engineering thermoplastics which means that addition of fiber makes the thermoplastic strong and stiff, whereas adding plasticizers makes it more flexible. Use of anti-oxidants would make thermoplastics stable under high temperatures, whereas addition of lubricants makes it easier to mold.
With repeating units of monomers, Engineered thermoplastics are made up of long polymer chains. Various fillers from minerals to fibers can be added for strength, impact, and other performance enhancements like thermal conductivity, electrostatic dissipation etc. With professional cutting services, companies have been able to ensure high quality finishes and a quick turnaround time.