subject: Plastic Products – an overview [print this page] Plastic Products an overview Plastic Products an overview
Plastic - a name which needs no introduction today. Every 6 out of 10 household items are made up of plastics. The byproducts can be seen all around us. So in brief, it can be said that plastics have become an integral part of daily life.
Whenever we discuss about plastics, the first thing that sticks our mind is - "plastics manufacturers".
Basically there are two ways in which plastic manufacturer can be described. The first one is by the process (the plastics making methods they use) and second one is by the industry that they are serving (packaging, automotive, etc.). But it's the final product that determines which type of process has to be used.
Most manufacturers are specialized in only one or two methods. Industrial giants and bigger plants may have more but it is rarely possible to have every process under one roof. The reason is the selection of process depends on the final product and industry that a manufacturer is supplying.
Plastics are widely used by different industries. Most common names among them includes medical and pharmaceutical, packaging, electronic and electrical, automotive, toys, building and construction, home products, agriculture etc. While most manufacturers sell their plastic parts and products to others industries, some trade among themselves. For example plastic bags manufacturers who specialize on manufacturing bags will sell them to other plastics manufacturers for packaging purposes.
Unlike plastics products there exists a huge variety plastic material. There are various grades within each and every single type of plastic materials. Each suited for different products and processes which serve different purpose. Like PP (polypropylene) is a common material and has many applications. However, PP materials that are used for making plastic bags are different from those that are used to make car bumpers - although they may come from the same material suppliers.
Plastic have some incredible properties and characteristics which contribute to the availability of high quality finished products at reasonable costs. These properties include lightweight, high-impact resistance, corrosion resistance, easy processing, high-wear resistance and less roughness. Experts suggest that beside great savings, plastic materials have great productivity, decorative appearance and durable for long span of time without any lubrication requirements.
When it comes to aeronautics and aerospace technology, plastic machining is preferred over materials because plastic machining can withstand heat. Even in manufacturing helicopters, plastic materials and plastic precision machining plays a key role for its durability, flexibility and capacity to absorb vibrations.
