Introduction to Plastic Materials for Industrial Applications
Today, high-quality industrial plastics are used in nearly all sectors, including the food and packaging industry, automation, and medical engineering. The possibilities are limited not by the applications themselves, but rather by the current state of technology.
Parts are produced according to your specifications, and even small batches can be economically manufactured. Whether produced from drawings, samples, or provided parts, we offer free advice on material selection, appropriate material design, and, most importantly, the relationship between materials and their use in plastics. There are many types of plastic products, with the following four being some of the most commonly used materials in industry.
1. PA – Polyamide (Nylon)
Polyamide (PA) is a semi-crystalline linear polymer that has excellent mechanical properties and good chemical resistance to organic solvents. However, it is highly susceptible to attack by acids and oxidative chemicals.
Polyamides (PA) are commonly used in construction materials due to their exceptional strength and toughness, as well as their excellent sliding properties. These thermoplastic materials are used to manufacture individual finished parts for machine manufacturing and plant engineering.
2. PE – Polyethylene
Polyethylene (PE) is a thermoplastic, semi-crystalline, non-polar plastic. Different types of polyethylene are characterized by their molar mass (molecular weight), which determines the physical properties of each type of polyethylene.
PE has excellent chemical resistance, good electrical insulation properties, and good sliding properties. This makes it particularly suitable for use in mechanical constructions and technical applications.
3. POM – Polyoxymethylene (Acetal)
Polyoxymethylene (POM), also known as acetal, is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic with a high molecular weight, notable for its excellent rigidity, low friction coefficient, and outstanding dimensional and thermal stability.
This polymer is particularly noteworthy for its ability to replace metals in many applications. It remains tough at temperatures as low as -40°C, offers good wear resistance, a low friction coefficient, excellent thermal stability, good sliding properties, and outstanding electrical and dielectric properties. It also has a low water absorption rate. POM is ideal for applications requiring high resistance and is suitable for specialized requirements.
4. PET – Polyethylene Terephthalate
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), previously known as PETP, is a thermoplastic, semi-crystalline, unreinforced polymer with excellent dimensional stability. It is characterized by its excellent wear resistance and low sliding friction coefficient.
Other properties of PET include its resistance to weak acidic solutions and good mechanical strength. These features make PET a popular choice for applications requiring durability and resistance to wear and chemicals.
Conclusion
The choice of plastic material plays a crucial role in ensuring the performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness of a product. PA, PE, POM, and PET are among the most commonly used industrial plastics, each offering specific benefits in terms of mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and other characteristics suited to various applications. Whether for machinery, automation, or medical devices, the right material ensures optimal performance in demanding industrial environments.