The Best Plastic Materials for Injection Moulding

At Nordell, we know all about providing the best plastic materials for injection moulding.

Based here in West Sussex, our experts mould parts from a wide range of engineering and commodity plastics, catering for various different industries.

We know that our clients expect the best.

They rely on us to identify the optimal materials that will not only bring their project in under budget but will last and provide bespoke, quality products.

From the versatile Polypropylene to the robust Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene and the transparent Polycarbonate, we'll guide you through the attributes that make each material stand out.

And, as we are incredibly conscious of our sustainability responsibilities here at Nordell, we cannot ignore the emergence of bioplastics. We’re very proud to be able to offer these alternative materials to our clients where appropriate, so we’ll examine some of the most popular.

Let’s take a look at some of the best materials we can recommend.

What Are The Best Materials For Plastic Injection Moulding?

Like with all guides, the caveat to answering a question like ‘what are the best materials for plastic injection moulding?’ is that it can really depend on the product you are ultimately making and its intended use.

However, our technicians have put together the following list based on their expert knowledge and the materials they use most for our clients.

Polypropylene (PP):

Polypropylene is a versatile thermoplastic known for its remarkable balance of properties.

It exhibits high chemical resistance, excellent impact strength, and good dimensional stability, making it a popular choice for injection moulding applications.

Due to its durability and cost-effectiveness, PP is widely used in the production of packaging materials, automotive components, medical devices, and consumer goods.

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS):

ABS is a robust thermoplastic polymer celebrated for its exceptional toughness and impact resistance.

This material is highly versatile, making it suitable for various applications.

Common products made from ABS include automotive components, electronic housings, toys, and consumer appliances.

Its resilience and durability make it a preferred choice when strength and impact resistance are paramount.

Polycarbonate (PC):

Polycarbonate is a transparent, high-performance plastic with remarkable impact resistance and optical clarity.

It is commonly used in injection moulding for applications requiring clear and durable materials, such as lenses, medical devices, electronic components, and safety glasses.

Polycarbonate's ability to withstand high temperatures further enhances its suitability for demanding environments.

Polyethylene (PE):

Polyethylene, in its various forms like High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), is renowned for its lightweight nature, chemical resistance, and flexibility.

Due to its stiffness and strength, HDPE is often employed in the manufacturing of containers, pipes, and outdoor furniture.

However, LDPE is commonly used in packaging materials, squeeze bottles, and agricultural films due to its flexibility and impact resistance.

High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE):

HDPE is a form of polyethylene prized for its high strength-to-density ratio, making it suitable for various applications.

HDPE's excellent stiffness and impact resistance make it a preferred material for products such as plastic bottles, containers, pipes, and industrial tanks.

Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE):

LDPE, characterised by its lower density and increased flexibility, is favoured for its ease of processing and versatility.

Everyday products made from LDPE include plastic bags, squeeze bottles, shrink wraps, and flexible packaging materials.

Nylon (PA):

Nylon, or polyamide (PA), is a strong and durable thermoplastic known for its excellent wear resistance and mechanical properties.

It is frequently used in injection moulding to produce gears, bearings, electrical connectors, and other components requiring high strength and resilience.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC):

PVC is a widely used thermoplastic known for its versatility and cost-effectiveness.

It is employed in injection moulding to produce various products, including pipes, cable insulation, window frames, and automotive components.

PVC's durability, chemical resistance, and flame-retardant properties contribute to its widespread use in different industries.

Bioplastics:

As we mentioned above, bioplastics are quickly becoming a viable alternative material for injection moulding.

Bioplastics, derived from renewable sources such as cornstarch or sugarcane, have emerged as a promising solution to address environmental concerns associated with traditional plastics.

These materials can be either biodegradable, breaking down into natural elements over time, or compostable, offering a more sustainable end-of-life cycle.

The benefits of bioplastics extend beyond environmental considerations.

They often possess properties comparable to traditional plastics, ensuring clients do not need to compromise on performance while positively impacting the planet.

We’re really proud to offer these as a viable alternative to our clients – where appropriate.

Read more about bioplastics and their qualities.

Summary: The Best Materials For Injection Moulding

Many different materials can be used for injection moulding, all with properties best suited for various purposes.

At Nordell, we pride ourselves on working closely with each client, understanding their unique requirements, and providing tailored solutions that maximise the potential of our injection moulding capabilities.

Whether it's selecting the most suitable plastic material, addressing specific design considerations, or incorporating sustainable options, our dedicated team at Nordell is invested in delivering not just products but solutions that elevate the overall quality and value of our clients' final offerings.

Contact us today to find out more about our plastic injection moulding services.

Call our Worthing headquarters on 01903 235765 or email [email protected].