Thermoplastics are a type of polymer that can be softened through heating and then processed using various production methods, such as extrusion, injection molding, thermoforming, and more. These polymers are used in various industries due to the many beneficial properties they offer, including chemical resistance and durability.

From medical to fluidics to aerospace, thermoplastics are found in many different applications and industries. Let’s explore the different types of thermoplastics and thermoplastic uses across different industries.

Properties of Thermoplastics

High-Temperature Resistance

These polymers can withstand high temperatures without melting or degrading. This allows them to be used in applications where they may be exposed to high temperatures without the risk of them breaking down or losing their functionality.

Chemical Resistance

When thermoplastics are exposed to chemicals, such as industrial cleaners, solvents, and other chemicals, they will not break down or become damaged. Because of this property, these polymers are used in many applications where they may come into contact with chemicals, including outdoor applications, medical applications, and more.

Durability

Thermoplastics are very durable and impact-resistant, meaning they won’t easily dent, chip, crack, splinter, or fray. Their durability is one of their most advantageous properties because it gives products made from thermoplastics a longer lifespan without needing as many replacements or as frequent service.

Electrical Insulation

Thermoplastics provide good electrical insulation, allowing them to be used in many applications where electricity may be present.

Common Types of Thermoplastics

ABS

Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene or ABS is a very common type of thermoplastic. It exhibits chemical resistance and thermal stability while also exhibiting strength and durability. Not only is it able to be used in applications such as toys and power tools, but it can also be used to create outdoor products as well.

Polyethylene

Polyethylene is also extremely common and has many beneficial properties. Not only is it resistant to corrosion, but it is also resistant to chemicals. This thermoplastic is commonly used to create pipes and pipe fittings, medical implants, and water tanks.

Polypropylene

This thermoplastic is extremely durable and offers excellent fatigue resistance and insulation properties. Polypropylene is ideal for creating plastic furniture and gears in machinery and vehicles.

PET

PET is a very strong, stiff thermoplastic that has excellent electrical insulating properties. It is commonly used to create packaging food trays and other consumer goods applications.

HDPE

HDPE is a cost-effective, UV-resistant, durable material that is commonly used in a wide range of applications. From pipe systems to toys to chemical containers, HDPE can be found in nearly every industry.

Thermoplastic Uses in Different Industries

Aerospace

Thermoplastics are used frequently in the aerospace industry. Due to the extreme conditions these applications face, the materials used must be durable and have the necessary qualities. Thermoplastics are frequently used to replace metal parts in many areas of the aircraft to reduce weight, including the wings, doors, seating, fueling systems, propulsion system components, and exterior paneling.

Fluidics

Many fluidics applications need to be able to reliably carry water and other liquids, and thermoplastics are a lightweight, durable solution for these applications. Typically, in fluidics, valves and pipes are manufactured from thermoplastics.

Medical

Due to the many beneficial properties of thermoplastics, they are commonly used in medical applications. Common medical products that are made from thermoplastics include eye protection, face shields, cases, tracheal and cardiac catheter tubing, prosthetics, bottles, containers, and syringes.

Oil and Gas

Oil and gas applications are subject to extreme outdoor environments constantly. Luckily, these applications can use thermoplastics to be successful. Bearings and bushings, downhole drilling tools, and seals and gaskets are commonly created from thermoplastics.

Semiconductor

Certain products and parts in the semiconductor industry are created from thermoplastics. These include valve seals, pump seals, flow controller seals, and filtration cartridges, all of which need to be durable enough to withstand demanding environments.

Ensinger Precision Components is Here to Find the Right Fit For You Thermoplastic Uses

For decades, Ensinger Precision Components has been machining complex components and parts for a wide range of industries. With our cutting-edge CNC machining equipment, we are able to machine plastic parts and products for critical applications in aerospace, defense, and more. Plus, with our injection molding, plastic fabrication, and design and engineering services, our team has all the tools and knowledge needed to make sure your products are a success.

Contact our team today to learn more about how we can take on your project.