Types of Plastic Extrusion and Where to Use Them

There are so many different types of plastic that can be extruded, each with different properties and different uses. At Rayda Plastics, plastic extrusion involves extruding a wide range of materials and we have summarised each one below:

UPVC
UPVC is a rigid form of PVC. It is both self-extinguishing and resistant to chemicals whilst being a low-cost material. It is ideal for indoor and outdoor use, which makes it great for window frames, drainpipes and fencing. It comes in a wide range of colours and grades so you’ll be able to find something for every situation.
 

PVC
PVC is a flexible material that comes in a range of colours and softness. Like UPVC, this material is low cost and can also be used both indoors and out. PVC is commonly used for gaskets, bumpers, sleeves and medical tubing.

ABS
ABS is made of synthetic rubbers which gives it a good resistance to impact, fire, chemicals and extreme temperatures. It is a rigid material with good adhesive properties that is mainly used indoors. Items commonly made from ABS include: phones, toys and freezer cabinets.

H.I.PS
H.I.PS (High Impact Polystyrene) is mostly used indoors but there are some grades made for outdoor use also. This is a medium cost material with good adhesive properties that comes in a range of colours. H.I.PS is commonly used for light diffusers and point of sale displays.

Polyethylene
Polyethylene comes in both high and low densities (HDPE and LDPE). Both are tough materials with a good chemical performance and low temperature performance. There are also zero halogen grades available.

Products made of LDPE: squeeze bottles, packaging and carrier bags

Products made of HDPE: chemical drums, pipes and tubes

Polypropylene
Polypropylene is a material that is mostly used indoors with a good resistance to chemicals and high temperatures. It is best used for non-load-bearing hinges, electrical cable insulation and piping.

Polycarbonate
This material is higher cost but it is very strong with a good performance in high temperatures. There are a number of grades available, including U.V stabilised and superior flame retardant. Polycarbonate is often used to make water bottles and eye protection.

TPE
TPE comes in a wide range of grades and hardness. It is used in medicine and often replaced the flexible PVC. It is used for medical tubing, electrical cable insulation and door seals.

Nylon 6
Nylon 6 is expensive but the cheapest of the nylon grades. It is tough, with a high tensile strength and has good resistance to abrasion with its low friction properties. Nylon 6 is used for gears, bearings and pneumatic airline tubing.

 

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