Why overmolding?
Thermoset plastic vs thermoplastic?
Top 6 elastic materials in plastic injection molding.
Choosing the right elastic plastic material for your injection molding project is crucial for performance and functionality. Here are 6 top options and their key characteristics:
Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU):
Highly elastic and flexible: Offers excellent elongation and tear resistance, ideal for dynamic applications.
Wide range of hardness: Available in various Shore A durometers (softness levels) for diverse needs.
Good chemical resistance: Resists oils, greases, and many chemicals.
Abrasion resistant: Durable against wear and tear.
Moderate temperature resistance: Suitable for temperatures up to 80°C (176°F).
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS):
Good impact resistance: Handles shocks and drops well.
Moderate flexibility: Offers some bendability and elasticity.
Chemical resistance: Resists common chemicals like oils and detergents.
Easy to machine: Can be drilled, tapped, and glued easily.
Wide range of colors and finishes: Available in various colors and textures for aesthetic appeal.
Styrene-Ethylene/Butadiene-Styrene (SEBS):
Soft and elastomeric: Highly flexible and compressible, suitable for sealing and shock absorption.
Good chemical resistance: Resists many chemicals and solvents.
Biocompatible: Can be used in medical and food-contact applications.
Low temperature resistance: Remains flexible at cold temperatures.
Limited UV resistance: May degrade with prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Thermoplastic Elastomer Copolyester (TEC):
High resilience: Recovers well from deformation, ideal for dynamic applications.
High heat resistance: Withstands temperatures up to 150°C (302°F).
Chemical resistance: Resists oils, fuels, and many chemicals.
Good weatherability: Suitable for outdoor applications.
More expensive than other options.
Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK):
Excellent mechanical properties: High strength, stiffness, and creep resistance.
Exceptional heat resistance: Withstands temperatures up to 260°C (500°F).
Chemical resistance: Resists almost all chemicals.
Biocompatible: Used in medical implants and devices.
Very expensive.
Thermoplastic Vulcanizate (TPV):
Combines rubber and plastic properties: Offers good tear resistance and elasticity with improved processing advantages.
Wide range of properties: Available in various grades with different hardness, flexibility, and temperature resistance.
Good weatherability: Suitable for outdoor applications.
Recyclable: Can be recycled in some cases.
Can be more expensive than other options.
Remember, the best material for your project depends on specific requirements like elasticity, temperature resistance, chemical resistance, cost, and aesthetics. Consulting with experienced plastic injection molding professionals can help you select the optimal material for your needs.