When selecting plastic materials for heavy loads, several factors come into play, including the specific type of load (static, dynamic, impact), required strength, stiffness, environmental conditions, and cost considerations. Here are some commonly used plastics well-suited for heavy-duty applications:

High-Performance Thermoplastics:

• Polycarbonate (PC): Renowned for its exceptional impact resistance, strength, and dimensional stability. Ideal for demanding applications like safety shields, machine parts, and bulletproof glass.
• Polyamide (Nylon): Offers high tensile strength, fatigue resistance, and good wear properties. Commonly used for gears, bearings, and structural components.
• Acetal (POM): Known for its low friction, high stiffness, and chemical resistance. Widely used for gears, cams, and other wear-resistant parts.
• Polyetheretherketone (PEEK): Offers outstanding mechanical properties, high-temperature resistance, and excellent chemical resistance. Used for demanding aerospace, medical, and industrial applications.

Engineered Thermoplastics:

• Polybutylene terephthalate (PBT): Provides good strength, dimensional stability, and heat resistance. Used for automotive parts, electrical components, and appliance housings.
• Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS): Offers a good balance of strength, impact resistance, and processability. Used for machine housings, toys, and luggage shells.
• Polyphenylene sulfide (PPS): Possesses excellent chemical resistance, high-temperature performance, and flame retardancy. Used for pump components, chemical processing equipment, and electrical connectors.

Other Options:

• Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE): Exceptional wear resistance and low friction coefficient. Widely used in bearings, bushings, and liners for heavy machinery.
• Polyoxymethylene (POM): Similar to acetal but offers higher stiffness and creep resistance. Used for gears, sprockets, and conveyor components.

Beyond material selection:

Remember, part design and processing parameters also play a critical role in ensuring your plastic parts can handle heavy loads effectively. Factors like wall thickness, geometry optimization, and proper gating can significantly impact strength and performance.

Consulting with experienced plastics professionals is highly recommended, as they can guide you through material selection, design optimization, and processing considerations to ensure your plastic parts perform reliably under heavy loads. They can also help you weigh factors like cost, manufacturability, and specific application requirements to make the optimal choice for your project.