What Plastics Are Used in Injection Molding?

What Plastics Are Used in Injection Molding?

Injection molding uses a wide variety of thermoplastics to produce parts and components. The choice of material depends on the specific requirements of the product, including strength, flexibility, heat resistance, cost, and environmental considerations. Below is an overview of commonly used plastics, including their pricing, advantages, disadvantages, practical applications, and ESG recycling practices.

1. Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)

• Price: Moderate.
• Advantages: Strong, impact-resistant, easy to machine, and chemically resistant.
• Disadvantages: Not UV-resistant or heat-resistant, limiting outdoor use.
• Applications: Automotive interiors, electronic housings, and toys (e.g., LEGO bricks).
• ESG Recycling: ABS can be recycled into reprocessed plastic pellets for use in low-cost plastic products.
  
  

2. Polypropylene (PP)

• Price: Low to moderate.
• Advantages: Excellent chemical resistance, fatigue resistance, and lightweight.
• Disadvantages: Prone to oxidation and sensitive to low temperatures.
• Applications: Packaging containers, automotive components, and medical syringes.
• ESG Recycling: PP can be recycled into secondary containers, construction materials, or other non-food-contact products.
  
  

3. Polyethylene (PE)

• Price: Low to moderate (HDPE is slightly more expensive than LDPE).
• Advantages: Strong water and chemical resistance with excellent moisture barrier properties.
• Disadvantages: Lacks rigidity and heat resistance.
• Applications: Milk bottles (HDPE), plastic bags (LDPE), and food wraps.
• ESG Recycling: PE waste can be recycled into garbage bags, pipes, and other durable products.
  
  

4. Polystyrene (PS)

• Price: Low to moderate.
• Advantages: High transparency, easy to process, and affordable.
• Disadvantages: Brittle and low impact resistance.
• Applications: Disposable cutlery, CD cases, and laboratory equipment.
• ESG Recycling: PS has low recycling rates but can be reprocessed into insulating materials or cushioning packaging.
  
  

5. Polycarbonate (PC)

• Price: Moderate to high.
• Advantages: Exceptional impact resistance, transparency, and heat resistance.
• Disadvantages: Higher cost and limited resistance to certain chemicals.
• Applications: Eyeglass lenses, protective shields, and automotive lighting covers.
• ESG Recycling: PC can be recycled into construction materials, recycled resins, or low-cost plastic products.
  
  

6. Polyamide (Nylon)

• Price: Moderate to high.
• Advantages: High strength, wear resistance, and excellent thermal stability.
• Disadvantages: Absorbs moisture, which can affect dimensional stability.
• Applications: Gears, bearings, and sports shoe soles.
• ESG Recycling: Nylon can be chemically recycled into raw materials for regenerated fibers or industrial parts.
  
  

7. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)

• Price: Moderate.
• Advantages: Excellent chemical resistance, high transparency, and high recyclability.
• Disadvantages: Degrades under UV light and has limited heat resistance.
• Applications: Beverage bottles, food packaging, and textile fibers.
• ESG Recycling: PET waste can be recycled into new bottles, textiles, or building materials.
  
  

8. Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE)

• Price: Moderate to high.
• Advantages: High flexibility, abrasion resistance, and impact resistance.
• Disadvantages: Limited heat resistance and higher cost.
• Applications: Seals, over-molded handles, and shoe soles.
• ESG Recycling: TPE can be recycled into secondary elastomeric products for low-demand applications.
  
  

9. Polyoxymethylene (POM or Acetal)

• Price: Moderate to high.
• Advantages: High rigidity, low friction, and excellent dimensional stability.
• Disadvantages: Poor resistance to strong acids and bases and UV degradation.
• Applications: Precision parts such as gears, fasteners, and bearings.
• ESG Recycling: POM can be recycled into low-demand industrial products.
  
  

10. Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA or Acrylic)

• Price: Moderate.
• Advantages: Extremely high transparency, weather resistance, and easy processing.
• Disadvantages: Low impact resistance and prone to scratching.
• Applications: Signboards, light covers, and display cases.
• ESG Recycling: PMMA can be recycled into transparent plastic materials or decorative products.
  
  

11. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

• Price: Low to moderate.
• Advantages: Durable, chemically resistant, and highly versatile.
• Disadvantages: Emits harmful substances during processing and is unsuitable for some food applications.
• Applications: Pipes, window frames, and cable sheaths.
• ESG Recycling: PVC can be recycled into flooring, industrial parts, and secondary piping.
  
  

Why Material Selection Matters?

Selecting the right plastic material is critical for the performance, cost, and sustainability of the product. It influences not only functionality but also recycling and environmental practices.

How SSB Can Help?

At Steady Stream Business (SSB), we assist clients in choosing the best materials based on specific needs, ensuring optimal performance while meeting ESG goals. Our expertise guarantees the right balance between functionality, cost, and sustainability.

Contact Us

For more information about plastic injection molding materials or related services, contact SSB today. Let us help you achieve efficient and sustainable manufacturing with our professional expertise!