Common questions and answers
- LDPE (low density) – Used in plastic bags and film.
- HDPE (high density) – Used in pipes, bottles and containers.
- Soft PVC – Used in hoses, cables and flooring.
- Hard PVC – Used in pipes, window profiles and building materials.
- EPS (expanded PS) – Common in Styrofoam and packaging materials.
Injection molding is a manufacturing method where granules of thermoplastic are melted and injected (under pressure) into a molding tool. The plastic solidifies and takes the shape of the desired part. The mold is carefully designed to exactly match the specifications of the plastic part.
There are two main groups of plastics – thermosets and thermoplastics. Thermosetting plastic cannot be melted down without its chemical structure being destroyed.
Moldable thermoplastic
Thermoplastic softens when heated and becomes plastic, i.e. malleable, and is therefore recyclable. Thermoplastics are easier and cheaper to handle when processing compared to thermoplastics, and also have a less negative environmental impact.
A molding tool is the tool used in manufacturing processes such as injection molding to shape the plastic batch/material into a desired shape. The design of the molding tool is decisive for the end result of the product. The molding tool must be designed so that post-work is minimized and also hold for the planned production volume.
Injection molding is the most common and efficient method of producing thermoplastic plastic parts. The manufacturing process is faster than many other methods, resulting in a high production rate and thus a cost-effective method.
Injection molding is repeatable, i.e. all parts are practically identical to each other, which is advantageous as it is important to have a uniform and recognizable identity for, for example, a brand across different platforms/channels.
There are many different types of plastic, and they can be divided into two main categories: thermoplastics and thermosets. Thermoplastics and thermosets react differently to heat. Thermoplastics can be melted and reshaped multiple times without losing their properties, making them recyclable and
flexible. Thermosetting plastic hardens permanently when heated and cannot be remelted, making it more heat-resistant but more difficult to recycle.
These plastics cannot be remelted after they have hardened. They are often very strong and heat-resistant, but cannot be reshaped after molding.
Epoxy (EP)
Strong adhesives and protective coatings, used in aircraft and electronics.
Phenolic plastic (PF, Bakelite)
Heat-resistant and electrically insulating, used in electrical components and kitchen utensils.
Polyurethane (PUR)
Available as both foam and rigid material, used in mattresses, insulation and paints.
Melamine formaldehyde (MF)
Used in laminates and kitchen utensils.
Thermoplastic
Used in car bodies, electrical casings and building materials.
In injection molding, thermoplastics are used. TPE and TPU and other thermoplastics are melted down and injected under high pressure and in a short time into a mold where it then solidifies.
These plastics can be remelted and reshaped multiple times without losing their properties. They are the most common plastics in industrial and consumer products.
Polypropylene (PP)
Light, strong and chemical resistant. Common in packaging, automotive components and medical technology.
Polyethylene (PE)
Impact resistant and flexible.
Available in different variants:
Polyamide (PA, Nylon)
Strong, durable and heat resistant. Used in gears, textiles and automotive components.
Polyoxymethylene (POM)
High stiffness and low friction. Perfect for gears, bearings and precision parts.*
polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
Durable and chemical resistant.
Available as:
Polystyrene (PS)
Rigid and cheap plastic, used in disposable packaging and insulation.
Also available as:
Polycarbonate (PC)
Extremely impact resistant and transparent. Used in safety glasses, CDs and machine guards.
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
Transparent, durable and recyclable. Common in plastic bottles and food packaging.
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
Stiff, impact-resistant and easy to process. Used in LEGO, car interiors and electronics.
Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA, acrylic)
Clear, glass-like plastic. Common in signs, windows, and optical lenses.
Thermoplastic elastomers (TPE)
Rubber-like plastic that is flexible and recyclable. Used in soft handles, cables and sports equipment.
Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)
Durable, flexible and chemical resistant. Used in mobile phone cases, shoes and technical membranes.
Polyphenylene sulfide (PPS)
Extremely heat-resistant and chemical-resistant plastic for industrial applications.
Polyethersulfone (PES)
Heat-resistant and chemical-resistant plastic used in medical technology and filtration systems.
Thermoplastic is a light, strong and durable material that can replace metal in many cases. It is recyclable and can be reshaped, making it more environmentally friendly than thermosets. Thermoplastics are resistant to chemicals and corrosion, making them ideal for industrial applications. The material is easy to process into complex parts.
Thermoplastics are also available in varieties that can withstand both high and low temperatures. With their insulating properties, thermoplastic Perfect for electronics and electrical components. It is also used in the food and medical industries due to its safety and hygienic properties.
Finally, thermoplastics are both cost-effective and energy-efficient. With low manufacturing costs and fast production, it is simply a smart choice.