Thermoplastics are a popular polymer choice for many different reasons. Due to their many advantageous properties, thermoplastic parts are commonly used in many industries, including medicine, aerospace, electronics, and more.
In this blog, we will explore the many benefits of thermoplastics and the uses and industries they are commonly found in. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our team — we are happy to help.
Understanding Thermoplastic Parts and Their Benefits
Thermoplastics are polymers that are softened through heating. After being heated, thermoplastics are processed through extrusion, injection molding, and thermoforming to create the desired part. These polymers do not lose any chemical properties after being heated and cooled.
Thermoplastic polymers are used frequently due to their many beneficial properties, including:
- Chemical resistance
- Easy moldability
- Durability
- Recyclable
- Heat resistance
- Electrical insulation
Common Applications of Thermoplastic Parts
Aerospace
Thermoplastic parts are often chosen to replace certain metal parts in the aerospace industry. These plastics are lighter weight than metal and contribute to weight reduction of the aircraft and fuel efficiency. Thermoplastic parts are cost-effective and easy to manufacture, have a good strength-to-weight ratio, and are corrosion resistant, making them ideal for aircraft parts, such as clips, brackets, tailplanes, wings, and more. The most common thermoplastics used in the aerospace industry include PEEK, PA12, PA6, POM-C, and PPS.
Medical
Used in many medical applications, thermoplastic parts are chosen for their chemical resistance, high-impact strength, good wear resistance, low susceptibility to stress, and biocompatibility. Thermoplastics are used to create many medical devices and implants, including orthopedic implants, drug delivery products, neurological and cardiovascular applications, and diagnostic medicine. Common polymers used in these applications include UHMW PE, PEEK, Acrylic, polypropylene, and PPS.
Construction
Chosen for its lightweight, corrosion resistance, strength, and durability, thermoplastic parts are commonly used in the construction industry. These applications include structural profiles, pipes, insulating panels, bathtubs, window panel doors, floors, tiles, and more. Polypropylene, polycarbonate, PEEK, and ABS are all commonly used in the construction industry.
Electronics
Many components, including those in mobile phones, cables, plugs, sockets, and more, utilize thermoplastic parts. Due to their electrical resistance and easy ability to be molded, these parts play a crucial role in the electronics industry. The most common thermoplastics used include polycarbonate, ABS, and PEEK.
Consumer Goods
Many consumer goods utilize thermoplastic parts, including the use in packaging, appliance parts, household items, toys, and so much more. These polymers are chosen for their versatility and easy moldability. In addition to their many other beneficial properties, thermoplastics also allow for design flexibility, making them good for use in the production of parts with complex geometries, such as certain appliance parts. The most common thermoplastics used in the consumer goods industry include polypropylene, polycarbonate, Nylon, ABS, and POM.
Ensinger Precision Components Can Create Your Thermoplastic Parts
At Ensinger Precision Components, we have been providing customers with high-quality polymers and thermoplastic parts for almost 30 years. We specialize in CNC machining, injection molding, plastic fabrication, and design and engineering services for all of your plastic needs.
Our team of engineers is here to help you choose the right materials, design for manufacturability, and provide you with the necessary prototypes and testing. As an ISO 9001:2015 certified company, we are committed to providing you with the highest quality plastic products and parts possible.
In addition to our numerous fabrication, machining, and manufacturing capabilities, we can also provide you with any polymer material you may need. From engineering resins to high-performance polymers to general industrial resins, we have it all. We also carry many plastic stock shapes and near net shapes so you will always have access to what you need.
Are you ready to get started creating your quality thermoplastic parts? Contact our team today to see how we can help!