Due to its strength, versatility, and other extensive benefits, industrial polymers have become the chosen material for various industries. Industrial polymers are chemical compounds that make up versatile plastics that can be used to manufacture synthetic materials for construction, electronics, aerospace, manufacturing, and many other industries.
The Advantages of Industrial Polymers
Cost-Effective
Industrial polymers are inexpensive to manufacture and naturally have many advantageous properties that make them a good replacement for heavy, costly metal parts. They are also much lighter than metal parts, making transportation easier and less expensive. Plastic parts also cause less friction and wear on equipment and machinery than metal does, lowering the risk of damage and the need for constant maintenance or replacement.
Chemical and Corrosion Resistant
Industrial polymers are naturally corrosion-resistant. Unlike metal, industrial polymers do not need to have any additional sheathing or treatments done to protect against corrosion. Luckily, polymers are designed to have the correct surface and properties to be highly resistant to chemicals as well, whereas metal must be treated to have this property.
Flexible Designs
Industrial polymers can be created in almost any shape or design thanks to injection molding and other manufacturing techniques. Injection molds can be created in a wide range of shapes and designs, meaning industrial polymers can also be formed into virtually any shape. The molds that are needed for injection molding are also significantly less expensive than metal cutting, and the process takes less time.
Versatility
Polymers can be used in a wide variety of ways and can easily be customized to fit the needs of applications. Many times, metals can’t meet all of the requirements for a product, however, industrial polymers can be customized to fit the needs of the product. This can range from color to physical properties, like temperature resistance.
Types of Industrial Polymers and Their Applications
High Density Polyethylene or HDPE
Known for its chemical resistance, low cost, and strength, this industrial polymer is great for use in tanks, vessels, kitchen cutting boards, light-duty guides, and railings.
PET
PET is considered an engineering thermoplastic due to its strength, stiffness, and high chemical resistance. Since this polymer is FDA compliant, it is largely used for high moisture, food handling, medical, or marine parts and components.
Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene or UHMW
UHMW is a cost-effective, abrasive-resistant industrial polymer that is used for a wide range of industrial applications. It is also naturally self-lubricating, making it a good choice for bearings.
Nylon
Nylon is a high-strength polymer with abrasion resistance, elasticity, and shape-holding qualities. This polymer is used for machinery applications, automobile tires, seatbelts, and home furnishings.
Ensinger Precision Components Can Serve All of Your Industrial Polymer Needs
At Ensinger Precision Components, we always strive to meet the needs of our customers by coming up with new solutions to all of their plastics needs. We offer hundreds of materials in any shape and size imaginable for a variety of manufacturing needs.
Not only do we offer various materials, but we have several plastic engineering services. From CNC machining, milling, or turning to plastic fabrication to design and engineering, we can help you with your industrial polymer project.
If you are interested in seeing what Ensinger Precision Components can do for you, contact our team today.