The versatility of plastic in industrial machinery manufacturing

In the era of industrial innovation, the search for materials that optimize performance and reduce costs is a constant priority.

In this context, plastic components have gained prominence as an effective alternative to traditional metal materials.

Thanks to their unique characteristics, such as corrosion resistance, lightweight properties, and durability, plastics have become indispensable allies in the manufacturing of industrial machinery.

From gears that ensure smooth operation to casings that protect delicate components, plastics offer versatility that allows engineers to design more efficient solutions tailored to market demands.

Types of plastics used in industrial machinery and their applications

• Polypropylene (PP): This plastic is known for its chemical and thermal resistance, as well as its fatigue resistance, allowing it to bend and stretch without breaking. It is a very lightweight material.

It is used in components that require good impact and chemical resistance, such as containers, tanks, and connectors.

• Polyethylene (PE): Highly versatile, polyethylene is used in applications requiring flexibility, allowing adaptation to different shapes and uses.

It is moisture-resistant due to its low water absorption. It is commonly found in flexible packaging, hoses, and coatings.

• Nylon (PA): This plastic is renowned for its high mechanical strength and abrasion resistance, good chemical resistance, ability to withstand high temperatures, and excellent shock-absorbing capacity.

It is used in gears, bearings, and transmission components where high durability is required, as well as in supports and guides.

• Polycarbonate (PC): Known for its high transparency, it enables optical applications. It is impact- and break-resistant and has good thermal stability.

The PC is used in protective casings, screens, and electrical components.

• PPS (Polyphenylene Sulfide): This material has highly desirable properties, such as high thermal resistance, making it suitable for applications requiring thermal stability.

It also has chemical resistance against aggressive substances, low moisture absorption, and a low friction coefficient with self-lubricating properties.

It is used in gear and bearing components, electrical insulation, and structural parts.

Properties of plastics compared to metal

Using plastic parts instead of metal offers several advantages that can be highly beneficial in various industrial applications.

The most notable benefits include:

• Design Versatility: Plastics can be molded into complex shapes with ease. This allows for more innovative and customized designs without the need for complicated machining processes.
• Cost: In general, producing plastic parts is less expensive than metal. This results in significant savings in manufacturing and the final product cost.
• Corrosion Resistance: Plastics do not rust or corrode like metals. This increases the durability of components in humid or corrosive environments, reducing maintenance and replacement needs.
• Electrical Insulation: Many plastics are excellent electrical insulators, making them ideal for electrical and electronic applications where short circuits or discharges must be prevented.
• Lightweight: Plastic components are significantly lighter, reducing the overall weight of machinery and improving energy efficiency.
• Durability: Many plastics are impact- and deformation-resistant, extending the lifespan of components.

Plastic injection molding at OSF Plastic: Contract Manufacturing

At OSF Plastic, we offer a comprehensive Contract Manufacturing service, providing plastic injection molding solutions for various industrial machinery components.

We support our clients at every stage of the process, from conceptual design to final product manufacturing and packaging:

• Collaborative Design: We provide guidance and work closely with our clients to design components that meet functional, durability, and aesthetic requirements.
• Material Selection: Thanks to our expertise and collaboration with suppliers, we help select the most suitable material for each application.
• Series Mold Manufacturing: We develop the mold and produce the first component samples for validation.
• Mass Production Validation: We conduct internal and client testing to ensure the quality of both the production process and the components.
• Component Packaging: We select the most suitable packaging to preserve the product until delivery.

At OSF, we analyze each project to recommend the most appropriate materials and technology to meet our clients' needs.

For more information, contact us.