Some Attributes Of Processed Thermoplastics

Mar 9
16:25

2013

Diana Spencer

Diana Spencer

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As opposed to high pressure injection mold techniques, some thermoplastics, such as HDPE (high-density polyethylene), may be molded in low pressure en...

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As opposed to high pressure injection mold techniques,Some Attributes Of Processed Thermoplastics Articles some thermoplastics, such as HDPE (high-density polyethylene), may be molded in low pressure environments. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polypropylene (PE) are among the other materials which are ideal for this type of processing. Typical items produced in this manner include housings for business machines, container pallets, stepladders, storage bins, buckets, automobile parts, furniture, and point-of-sale display components.

This type of processing has many advantages over high pressure production methods. For example, it has lower setup costs, but higher production rates. Very large and bulky items can be produced. Also, aluminum molds are utilized, which are lighter and less expensive than those that are needed for the more pressure-intensive processes.

Very durable and strong components weighing up to 200 pounds can be produced through this method. Dimensional accuracy remains constant over an entire production run. The products are weatherproof and impact resistant. They are lightweight, and typically weigh about 15 percent less than their counterparts that are produced by high pressure injection methods.

Other advantages include the ability to mold two different materials and two different colors simultaneously. A full range of colors are available, and production runs dependably retain color consistency. Also, the products are environmentally friendly because they can be reused and recycled.

This process is driven by foam, and involves the distribution of an inert gas through molten polymer. The foaming action of the gas facilitates the flow of plastic into the cavity of the mold. After it is released from the mold, the process very efficiently repeats itself.

A wide range of industries are served by these specialized production plants. Among them are aerospace and defense, tire and rubber, alternative energy, pharmaceutical, electronics, automotive, waste collection and recycling, food and beverage, and medical. Reusable containers and trays can be produced for the medical industry. For the pharmaceutical realm, baskets, trays, and racks are developed. Impact resistant, weatherproof bins and containers are among the sturdy solutions that are manufactured for waste collection and recycling organizations.

Structural foam molding components are also ideal in the alternative energy realm. The low pressure production techniques are ideal for solar panels, battery parts, and photovoltaic cells. Each item is designed for a certain application, and is engineered to endure the stress of in-process handling and storage, as well as transportation to its destination. Special materials are utilized and specific techniques are adhered to in order to ensure high levels of cleanliness are met, as well as the static dissipation which is required by this industry.