Plastics in Injection Molding

Plastic is versatile, lightweight, flexible and durable. Its malleable properties make it ideal for injection molding, the most common way to manufacture parts.

Plastic polymers that melt and soften with heat and solidify when cooled are called thermoplastics. This differs from the chemical change that occurs in thermoset materials, resulting in a permanent hardened material that cannot be remolded. Hundreds of plastics are used in the injection molding process, and the type utilized differs with the type of product you want to create. Here are examples of plastic resins used in injection molding:

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is a cost-effective plastic that easy to machine. Styrene content allows for a shiny, impermeable surface. The butadiene provides toughness and high impact strength. ABS is recyclable and performs well under temperature extremes. Metal coatings especially adhere well to ABS resin. It can also be colored easily. This resin is used in products such as sewer pipes and LEGO bricks. ABS is one of the most widely used plastics in injection molding.

Polycarbonate (PC) resin is a strong polymer provides stiffness, thermal resistance and easy machining. The process of injection molding with polycarbonates uses rapid heating and cooling resulting in parts with superb rigidity and clear transparency. Polycarbonate is resistant to creep and moisture. The final surface quality of polycarbonate products are functional and aesthetically pleasing. PC is used in items like cellular phones and DVDs.

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a thermoplastic used to create bottle caps, siding, automotive parts and more. PVC is low cost and does not lose strength when cooled and reheated. Other qualities that make it a desirable for injection molding include chemical and abrasion resistance, high density, and good color retention. PVC is lightweight, recyclable, stable and widely available. Its strength and weatherability make it popular for many projects.

Santoprene is a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV) polymer commonly used in a wide range of processes that require superior part definition. Because it has excellent sealing capacity, Santoprene is found in window seals, small hoses, and wire coatings. This resin has low density and is helpful in reducing product weight. Santoprene is flexible and fully recyclable. Like other resins, it is also resistant to extreme temperatures and harsh environments.

Valox is a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) is a plastic with superior machinability and surface appearance. Valox is highly flame and chemically resistant. This makes it ideal for use in the automotive or medical field where fluid handling is important. You will also find Valox in lawn and garden equipment, lighting and household appliances. It is a versatile resin with an excellent surface finish and high mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties.

The experts at The Toolroom know everything about plastics injection molding so you don’t have to. For over 40 years, our experienced team and leading edge technology have provided you with tooling solutions from start to finish. For your next project, call The Toolroom at (573) 437-4154.