ACETAL
Acetal, also known as POM (Polyoxymethylene), is a strong, rigid thermoplastic with excellent dimensional stability and low friction. Pros: High strength and stiffness, low moisture absorption, excellent wear resistance. Cons: Poor UV resistance, not ideal for acidic environments. Uses: Gears, bushings, and high-precision mechanical components.
ACRYLIC
Acrylic is a lightweight, transparent plastic known for its optical clarity and weather resistance. Pros: High clarity, good UV resistance, lightweight. Cons: Brittle under impact, prone to cracking. Uses: Display cases, signage, glazing, and light diffusers.
ERTALYTE (PET-P)
Ertalyte is a brand of PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) that offers high wear resistance and dimensional stability. Pros: Excellent surface finish, low moisture absorption, FDA-compliant. Cons: Lower impact strength, not ideal for high-load bearing. Uses: Food processing components, precision parts, and sliding applications.
HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)
HDPE is a durable, versatile plastic commonly used for its high chemical resistance and low cost. Pros: Impact resistant, weatherproof, chemical resistant. Cons: Poor UV stability unless stabilized, lower rigidity. Uses: Water tanks, cutting boards, chemical containers, and pipe systems.
NYLON
Nylon is a tough, versatile engineering plastic known for its high wear resistance and strength. Pros: High mechanical strength, excellent wear and abrasion resistance. Cons: Absorbs moisture, can warp or swell in humid conditions. Uses: Gears, rollers, pulleys, and industrial components.
POLYCARBONATE
Polycarbonate is a high-impact, transparent plastic offering outstanding toughness and thermal resistance. Pros: Extremely impact resistant, transparent, high temperature tolerance. Cons: Scratches easily, more expensive than acrylic. Uses: Machine guards, safety glazing, and protective panels.
POLYPROPYLENE
Polypropylene is a lightweight thermoplastic known for its excellent chemical resistance and fatigue endurance. Pros: Excellent chemical resistance, low cost, fatigue resistant. Cons: Poor UV resistance, limited temperature range. Uses: Lab equipment, hinges, piping systems, and automotive parts.
PTFE (Teflon)
PTFE is a high-performance fluoropolymer best known for its non-stick properties and extreme chemical resistance. Pros: Chemically inert, extremely low friction, high heat resistance. Cons: Soft and easily deformed under load, expensive. Uses: Seals, gaskets, bearings, and non-stick applications.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
PVC is a widely used plastic available in rigid and flexible forms with good chemical and weather resistance. Pros: Strong, chemical resistant, flame retardant. Cons: Brittle in cold temperatures, not UV stable without additives. Uses: Pipes, fittings, signage, and electrical insulation.
UHMWPE (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene)
UHMWPE is an extremely tough plastic with superior impact resistance and excellent wear properties. Pros: Extremely wear-resistant, low friction, excellent impact strength. Cons: Difficult to bond or glue, lower rigidity. Uses: Conveyor systems, wear strips, liners, and marine components.