Material selection for plastic extrusion

Guide to plastic characteristics and which is best suited for your application…

ABS Economical plastic used in consumer electronics. Exhibits rigidity, good impact strength and hardness with chemical resistance. Glossy finish.

Acrylic High clarity rigid plastic used in retail displays, signs, light lenses and window glazing. Comes in translucent
opaque colors and clear. Also known as Plexiglas

PETG Similar to acrylic in appearance with better impact resistance. Can be cold formed without fracturing. High clarity and also used for displays and lenses.

Polycarbonate High clarity and excellent impact resistance. Used in windshields and bullet proof security applications. Also known as Lexan

Polyethylene LDPE-high impact resistance, low tensile strength and good moisture resistance. HDPE-harder and stiffer with good temperature and chemical resistance. Economical choice.

PVC Rigid, semi-rigid and flexible with good weather, UV and corrosion resistance. Good tensile and impact strength. Most common material used in extrusion. Known for ease of processing.

Styrene Economical crystal clear material used in displays. Low impact resistance. Not good where impact strength is critical. Comes in colors.

TPR / TPE Plastic alternative to rubber. Comes in various durometers with good tensile strength and chemical resistance. Won’t degrade over time compared to rubber

Urethane Comes in soft to hard grades. Has good tensile and tear strength with excellent impact resistance. Used for bumpers and moulding for automobiles.