There are many things to consider when deciding which type of resin to use when making plastic parts. What works for one product may not work for another, because each plastic material has its own unique properties and advantages.
To fully understand how to choose the perfect material for your plastic parts, you need to understand your product. So consider these questions as you weigh your options.
1.What is the intended use of your product?
First and foremost, you need to think about how your product is being used. Is it for liquids? Does it need to withstand high temperature or pressure? Will it come into contact with food or be used for medical purposes?
Having a clear understanding of how your product will be used will be a major determinant of the type of plastic you need.
For example, high density and low density polyethylene, called HDPE and LDPE respectively, are both known as waterproof materials. You’ll often see them used in milk jugs, soda bottles, or outdoor furniture. If you know you will be using your product to contain or withstand contact with liquids, then you need to choose a material that will stand up to the work.
- How durable does it need to be?
Durability is another important factor to consider when determining which plastic material is best for your needs.
If your product is sold as a single-use item, such as a single-use cup or plastic shopping bag, you can choose a less durable plastic material. Materials such as polyethylene (PE) or polystyrene (PS) are cheap and can withstand light.
On the other hand, if your product is expected to stand the test of time, you will need to use a stronger resin that will not decompose. Take mobile phone parts. Phones need to be able to handle frequent and frequent heavy use, and should be able to withstand occasional drops. That’s why many mobile phone manufacturers use a highly durable mixture of polycarbonate and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC/ABS).
3.Does it have standards or regulations to meet?
If you produce products that must meet specific regulations or standards, you should pay attention not only to choosing the right plastic material, but also to choosing a certified manufacturer to produce it.
For example, if you are making plastic medical devices, you need to ensure that the materials you use are biocompatible, such as polyether ether ketone (PEEK). In addition, the manufacturer you work with is required to be ISO 13485 certified.
For plastic products in the pharmaceutical or food industry, you need to consider the material’s resistance to various solvents and heat.
Some of the most common agencies that require detailed regulations include USDA, NSF (National Health Foundation), 3A Dairy for Dairy equipment, THE United States Pharmacopoeia (USP), and The Canadian AG. The latter is important in Canada if you plan to sell plastic food containers there.
4.How do you want it to look?
Since the aesthetic quality of your product will affect whether people buy it or not, you also need to consider the finished appearance of a particular plastic material i.e. what kind of finish is required?
Do you want a matte or high-gloss finish? Should the material be translucent or opaque? Does the product need to be painted or bonded after manufacture? The answers to these questions will help you determine the plastic you need to get the right look.
For example, if you need a material that you can paint or bond, ABS plastic is one of the best choices. It’s also one of the most affordable plastic materials available. Many manufacturers use it for this reason, and because it looks good in a variety of products.
- What is your production demand for the product?
For the products in the preliminary experiment, vacuum forming or 3D printing can be used to save costs and ensure product quality. For different quantities of products, the choice of mold materials will be different. Mold life cycle is also different, of course, RJC engineers will choose the most suitable solution for you according to your ideal number, currently we have 20 years of experience in mold mold team 2, each team of 10 people, VIP service, just to make the best products.
The options available for making plastic parts are wide and varied. For this reason, trying to decide which material is right for your product can be overwhelming. After answering these questions, contact a professional to discuss which materials will meet all your needs. With the right advice and the right resin, you can be sure you will get the perfect plastic product.
To discuss your next order or to discuss our custom plastic molding services, please send email [email protected] to talk to one of our team members.
