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​Types of Plastics

Choosing the right plastic is one of the most important steps in product design. Different plastics have different strengths, costs, and applications. Below are some of the most common types used in product development and injection molding.

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1. Polypropylene (PP)

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  • Properties: Lightweight, flexible, excellent chemical resistance, fatigue-resistant (“living hinges”).

  • Typical Uses: Food containers, caps, automotive parts, packaging.

  • Pros: Low cost, easy to process, recyclable.

  • Cons: Sensitive to UV without stabilizers.

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2. Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)

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  • Properties: Strong, tough, good impact resistance, easily painted or plated.

  • Typical Uses: Consumer electronics housings, LEGO bricks, automotive interiors.

  • Pros: Good balance of toughness and appearance.

  • Cons: Not great outdoors without UV stabilizers.

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3. Polyamide (PA / Nylon)

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  • Properties: High strength, wear resistance, good for mechanical parts.

  • Typical Uses: Gears, bearings, cable ties, industrial components.

  • Pros: Self-lubricating, durable.

  • Cons: Absorbs moisture, which can affect dimensions.

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4. Polyoxymethylene (POM / Acetal)

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  • Properties: Excellent dimensional stability, low friction, strong.

  • Typical Uses: Precision parts, locks, zippers, automotive components.

  • Pros: Great for moving mechanical parts.

  • Cons: Sensitive to strong acids and bases.

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5. Polycarbonate (PC)

  • Properties: Extremely tough, transparent, heat-resistant.

  • Typical Uses: Safety glasses, car headlights, water bottles, protective covers.

  • Pros: High impact resistance, optical clarity.

  • Cons: Can scratch easily, higher cost.

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6. Polyethylene (PE – LDPE, HDPE)

  • Properties: Flexible (LDPE) or rigid (HDPE), excellent chemical resistance.

  • Typical Uses: Bottles, pipes, films, toys.

  • Pros: Very common, inexpensive, good for mass production.

  • Cons: Limited heat resistance.

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7. Polystyrene (PS)

  • Properties: Clear, rigid, inexpensive.

  • Typical Uses: Disposable cups, packaging, insulation (EPS foam).

  • Pros: Low cost, lightweight.

  • Cons: Brittle, poor impact resistance.

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8. Wood-Plastic Composites (WPC)

  • Properties: Blend of plastic and natural fibers (often wood flour). Combines durability of plastic with the appearance of wood.

  • Typical Uses: Decking, outdoor furniture, building materials, trays.

  • Pros: Sustainable option, weather-resistant.

  • Cons: Heavier than pure plastic, processing requires careful control.

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Why It Matters

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The choice of material impacts:

  • Durability – Will it last in its environment?

  • Manufacturability – Is it easy to mold or machine?

  • Cost – Does the price fit the product’s target market?

  • Sustainability – Can recycled or bio-based plastics be used?

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