Injection molding is the most common method of manufacturing plastic parts. This versatile fabrication process accommodates a vast number of part sizes, complexities, and applications. Hundreds of plastic materials are compatible with injection molding, including resins developed for specific end-use properties, like impact resistance or tensile strength.

As an industry leader in injection mold services, D&M Plastics works with many materials, including:

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)

  • Applications: ABS is used to produce computer parts, automotive components, chairs, containers, computer parts, and many other components.
  • Environmental & mechanical conditions: Since it has a low melting point, this material shouldn’t be used in high-heat applications. ABS is recyclable, but the recycling process can be complex and expensive.
  • Cosmetic & performance characteristics: This opaque material is easily colored and displays good wear, chemical, and corrosion resistance.
  • Cost considerations: ABS is low-cost and easily obtainable.

Acrylic (PMMA)

  • Applications: Acrylic is commonly used to manufacture automotive lights, eyeglass lenses, window panels, skylights, bulletproof security barriers, and many consumer products. Since it is compatible with human tissue, it is also used in many medical device applications.
  • Environmental & mechanical conditions: Acrylic performs well in outdoor applications since it cannot corrode and is resistant to UV light and moisture. It is recyclable and BPA-free.
  • Cosmetic & performance characteristics: In its unmodified form, acrylic is transparent and lightweight. It can be modified to take on a wide range of colors, textures, and forms.
  • Cost considerations: Acrylic is easy to handle and process, as well as low in cost.

LCP (Liquid-crystal Polymer)

  • Applications: Suitable for demanding applications, such as bulletproof vests, jet engine enclosures, brake and transmission parts, and more.
  • Environmental & mechanical conditions: LCP is fire-resistant and withstands extreme temperatures. LCP is recyclable, but the recycling process is still being developed.
  • Cosmetic & performance characteristics: Excellent chemical resistance and electrical properties. LCP is also resistant to sterilizing radiation.
  • Cost considerations: More expensive than other thermoplastics due to its exceptional properties.

Glass-filled Nylon (GF)

  • Applications: Glass-filled nylon and glass-filled polyamides are related materials that are reinforced with glass to improve their thermal and mechanical properties. GF is typically a nylon polymer filled with glass fibers. It is used to produce everything from automotive components to electronics and consumer goods.
  • Environmental & mechanical conditions: GF is fairly resistant to chemicals, except for strong acids and bases. It also displays high-temperature resistance.
  • Cosmetic & performance characteristics: GF is insulative, rigid, and features an excellent strength-to-weight ratio.
  • Cost considerations: Due to the added glass, this material comes at a higher cost. Since it is highly abrasive, it can also erode tools more quickly than other resins and can wear on mated parts.

PC ABS (Polypropylene Copolymer Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)

  • Applications: Widely used in automotive and electronics applications, such as in TV frames, laptop monitor enclosures, glove boxes, and more.
  • Environmental & mechanical conditions: Heat resistant but not suitable for harsh chemical environments. PC ABS demonstrates moderate recyclability, benefitting from advancements in recycling technologies that are gradually enhancing its eco-friendly potential.
  • Cosmetic & performance characteristics: As a blend of two polymers, PC ABS displays the benefits and limitations of both materials. It is lightweight, opaque, and impact resistant.
  • Cost considerations: Easily processed and more cost-effective than polypropylene copolymer.

Polypropylene

  • Applications: Polypropylene works well in applications that require a high-strength material. It features good barrier properties and surface finish and is a low-cost material, making it ideal for packaging applications as well as in automotive, medical, and industrial plastic parts.
  • Environmental & mechanical conditions: Also referred to as PP, polypropylene is recyclable and highly resistant to acids and alcohols but displays limited resistance to oxidizing agents. It is highly flammable and retains its mechanical properties in humid conditions.
  • Cosmetic & performance characteristics: Polypropylene copolymer is fairly soft while offering good impact resistance. It’s also tougher and more durable than propylene homopolymer.
  • Cost considerations: Polypropylene is a low-cost, economical material that delivers outstanding physical, thermal, and electrical properties not found in other thermoplastics.

Polyethylene (PE)

  • Applications: As the most widely used commodity plastic, polyethylene is found in nearly every industry. It is commonly used to produce bottles, bags, medical implants, and much more.
  • Environmental & mechanical conditions: Since it is water and wear-resistant, polyethylene can be used in wet or humid environments, such as in fishing net or water tank applications. Different types of polyethylene display varying amounts of tensile strength. Polyethylene is highly recyclable, with the potential for multiple cycles of reprocessing.
  • Cosmetic & performance characteristics: Polyethylene is abrasion-resistant and tough. It can be produced in strong, thin films and is a suitable material for electrical insulation.
  • Cost considerations: Polyethylene is low-cost and widely available.

PS (Polystyrene)

  • Applications: Used in many consumer products and medical applications, including everything from smoke detector housings to food containers, Petri dishes, and more.
  • Environmental & mechanical conditions: PS displays poor chemical resistance but is water and humidity-resistant. Polystyrene exhibits moderate recyclability.
  • Cosmetic & performance characteristics: Naturally transparent and easily blended with colors, additives, or other plastics. PS is also a high-strength material with good dimensional stability.
  • Cost considerations: Readily available and inexpensive.