Understanding Material Selection in Custom Plastic Fabrication

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What Material Should We Use?

In the complex landscape of plastic manufacturing, selecting the right material is crucial. This decision impacts the success of your project. Each type of plastic has unique properties, such as strength, flexibility, chemical resistance, and optical clarity. As a manufacturer, you must make informed decisions about material selection.

The Importance of Material Choice

Choosing the right material is not just a technicality; it’s a foundational step in your project. The right material can enhance performance, durability, and functionality. Conversely, the wrong choice can lead to failures, increased costs, and delays. Understanding the characteristics of different materials can help you avoid these pitfalls.

Common Materials Used in Plastic Fabrication

Here are four common materials we use, along with a brief summary of their pros and cons:

Cast Acrylic

Cast acrylic offers excellent optical clarity and is 20 times stronger than glass. It is easy to form and bond with other acrylic pieces, maintaining crystal clarity. While it can scratch, most scratches can be buffed out with a heat gun. However, it shatters like glass if dropped. Available in various colours, acrylic is often used for medical cabinets, machine guarding, sneeze screens, and signage.

Polycarbonate

Polycarbonate boasts exceptional clarity and is 30 times stronger than glass. It is easy to machine, but when formed, it may warp and revert to its natural shape. This tough material does not shatter unless subjected to extreme pinpoint force but does scratch easily. Polycarbonate can be bonded, but welding offers greater strength. The primary colour available is natural (transparent with a slight blue hue). It is commonly used for high-impact guarding, conveyor guarding, riot shields, and bus shelters.

PETG

PETG is similar to polycarbonate but slightly less strong, at about 70% of polycarbonate's strength. It is easy to form, bend, and manipulate. Like polycarbonate, it does not shatter when dropped; instead, it chips and marks. PETG has a stronger blue hue but still maintains good optical clarity. This material is ideal for applications requiring strength and flexibility, making it a popular choice for bent or formed guarding.

Polyethylene

Polyethylene is considered an engineering plastic. Although opaque, it comes in various colours, with a natural translucent milky-white appearance. It is extremely rigid and resistant to heat and chemicals. Polyethylene is available in several grades, with higher numbers indicating increased resistance. Common grades include PE300, PE500, PE1000, and HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene). This material is often used for wear plates, skid plates, hinges, washers, and high-chemical-resistance tanks.

Navigating Material Selection

The vast array of materials available can be overwhelming. Each has its own set of characteristics and potential applications. You might find yourself asking, "Which material is best for my project?"

Instead of spending hours researching, why not ask us? At S&D Solutions, we have decades of experience with various materials for unique purposes. We can help you navigate the complexities of material selection and solve potential problems before they arise.

Why Choose S&D Solutions?

Choosing a supplier for your custom plastic fabrication needs is a significant decision. You want to work with a company that understands your requirements and can deliver quality solutions. At S&D Solutions, we pride ourselves on our expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction.

We focus on providing practical advice tailored to your specific needs. Whether you require machine guarding, enclosures, or bespoke plastic parts, we are here to help. Our team is dedicated to ensuring you receive the best materials and solutions for your projects.

Get in Touch

If you have questions about material selection or need assistance with your next project, don't hesitate to reach out.

Contact Us

By choosing S&D Solutions, you are partnering with a reliable supplier that prioritises clarity, trust, and real-world value. Let us help you turn your ideas into reality with the right materials and expert guidance.