Engineering plastics, also called thermoplastic polymers, are a group of synthetic resins that offer high-performance capabilities and enhanced plastic characteristics compared to other standard plastic materials.More specifically, engineering plastics possess a wide spectrum of properties (especially mechanical and/or thermal), enabling them to perform much better in structural applications than commonly used commodity plastics.
Engineering Plastics vs Commodity Plastics.
Commodity plastics include plastic grades used in high-volume applications where technical performance is not essential—for instance, regular household items. Commodity plastics include Polypropylene, Polyethylene, Polyvinyl Chloride, Polyurethane, Polystyrene, etc. Even though commodity plastics are not as sophisticated as engineering plastics, they are still widely available and used. They are used for packaging, containers, clothing, disposables, etc.
- Heat stability up to temperatures between 120 to 150°C.
- Excellent machinability and moldability into various shapes.
- Lightweight, higher strength, and minimal friction.
- Decent chemical resistance, resilience, stiffness, durability, and electrical properties.
Below are some general properties of engineering plastics:
- Good mechanical properties (abrasion resistance, impact strength)
- Optical Properties (translucent and transparent)
- Chemical Resistance
- Dimensional Stability
- Low Flammability
- Thermal Resistance (minimum and maximum operating temperature)
- Water repellent
- Sliding Properties
- Electrical Properties
