Injection molding involves melting plastic material and injecting it into a mold. The molten plastic cools and hardens in the shape of the mold. In California, various plastics are used in the plastic injection molding process. Each type of plastic has unique properties and characteristics; some plastics are better suited for specific applications than others.

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene is a type of plastic that is strong and inexpensive. It withstands impact, scuffing, and staining but does not hold up well to heat. ABS can be used for various products, including toys, computer cases, and automotive parts. Plastic manufacturers in California often use ABS because it is easy to work with and produces a high-quality finished product.

Polycarbonate (PC)

Polycarbonate is a clear, strong, and stiff plastic. It has excellent heat resistance and can be used in products that need to withstand high temperatures. It is often used in medical devices, eyeglass lenses, vehicle headlight lenses, and LED lights. Polycarbonate is more expensive than some other types of plastic but works well for products that need to be durable and heat-resistant.

Acrylic (PMMA)

Acrylic, sometimes referred to as plexiglass, is a shatter-resistant, lightweight plastic. Acrylic is frequently used in place of glass since it is transparent and can endure weathering effects such as sunlight, heat, and rain. However, it is not suitable for carrying a lot of weight. Acrylic is also sensitive to grease, oils, and stains. Acrylic is used in various transparent applications, including windows, display cabinets, solar cells, and light fixtures.

Nylon Polyamide (PA)

Nylon is a polyamide with excellent friction, abrasion, and heat resistance and is used in applications such as gears and bearings. However, it does not do well in contact with water.

Polyethylene (PE)

Polyethylene is versatile, lightweight, and durable. Polyethylene can be used for many products, including food packaging, pipes, tubing, etc. With an injection mold, polyethylene can be used for products such as toys, lunchboxes, and bottles. It’s an inexpensive and sturdy plastic, but it has less temperature resistance and is more difficult to form in intricate patterns.

Polypropylene (PP)

Polypropylene is waterproof, heat-resistant, and food-safe but not flame resistant. Polypropylene can be folded and used to manufacture bottle caps, reusable containers, carpeting, ropes, upholstery, clothing, camping materials, etc. The material is 100% recyclable.

Polyoxymethylene (POM)

Polyoxymethylene is a crystalline polymer that has excellent stiffness and friction resistance. This material is ideal for various engineering tasks, such as gears, bushings, and pulley wheels. POM is often used to make components for automobile systems, locks, firearms, knife handles, and eyeglass frames. It repels water and pollutants, but not flames or UV light.

Polystyrene (PS)

Two types of polystyrene are used in injection mold tooling: high-impact (HIPS) and general-purpose (GPPS). The higher carbon content makes it stronger, but GPPS is brittle and can shatter more easily. Both are light and inexpensive, withstanding water as well as radiation. PS is used for medical applications since medical devices are frequently sterilized using gamma rays. HIPS is used in products such as drinking cups, gasoline tanks, and car panels. At the same time, GPPS is used in disposable utensils, rigid packing, and more. A variant of PS is also used to make styrofoam. PS is combustible and degrades with UV exposure and some chemicals.

Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE)

TPE is a synthetic material with a broad flexibility range and shared characteristics of rubber. It can be stretched or molded into various shapes, such as footwear, seals, tubes, valves, and medical devices, such as catheters or breathing equipment.  TPE can be easily distorted and has poor heat resistance. It is also more costly compared to other plastics.  

Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) 

TPU is flexible, strong, and resistant to heat, chemicals, and abrasions. It is firm like plastic and elastic like rubber. California’s reliable plastic molding company uses TPU for power tools, medical devices, automobile instrument panels, sporting goods, etc.

Many plastic materials are available for injection molding, and the suitable material will depend on the project’s specific requirements. A plastic injection molding company can advise you on the best material for your project.