Plastic injection molding remains one of the most common and versatile manufacturing techniques. It has several advantages besides its ability to work simultaneously with several plastic resins. This, therefore, makes it the supreme technique when it comes to plastic manufacturing. However, with the increased number of polymers available today, choosing the best one to work with can be overwhelming for designers and manufacturers. This is why this list of common plastic resins for injection molding can be helpful.

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)

This is one of the most popular plastic resins used in injection molding worldwide. Some superior qualities that make it the go-to for manufacturers include impact resistance, toughness, durability, heat resistance, and strength.

ABS has a combined strength of styrene and acrylonitrile polymers, making it the best fit for most applications that prioritize material toughness. Moreover, it's easy to mold into any desired shape, and the finished product has a glossy effect with superior quality.

Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)

As the name suggests, LDPE has a low density which translates to less mass than its volume. It's popular for its long and short branching, which gives it the best processability and clarity. You can find LDPE in most injection molding companies near you and consumer goods like medical products, electronics, and housewares. However, LDPE doesn't do well in high-temperature applications and harsh weather.

High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS)

If you are looking for low-cost performance plastic resin that provides highly customizable surfaces, HIPS is the way to go. It is tough and easy to decorate, print, bind, and glue. This material has high versatility, which makes it most suitable for medical, food, display, cosmetics, industrial and horticulture applications. One major advantage of HIPS is that you can easily remodel it several times and still get the best end product. In addition, this makes it environmentally friendly and recyclable.

Acetal

Acetal has a low coefficient of friction yet has a high performance. It's ideal for making pulley wheels, conveyor belts, or any other parts that would otherwise be made of metal. Acetal is strong and durable, making it the best for mechanical parts like chain links, construction appliances, and automotive. However, some things to note about Acetal are that they are vulnerable to oxidizing agents and strong acids and have high resistance to most chemicals.

Polypropylene (PP)

Resistance to chemicals and electricity to high elasticity are some of the qualities which make Polypropylene the best plastic resin to use. In addition, its high melting point makes it effective for producing plastic parts with high heat exposure. Made from a combination of propylene monomers, PP is ideal for making robust products like car bumpers or medical tools. However, please note that they are flammable and easily degradable by UV radiation.

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK)

This plastic resin is popularly known for its extreme resistance to chemical attacks and aqueous or heat degradation. It's highly acceptable for a wide range of products as it's one of the strongest resins you will ever find in any injection molding company near you. It's the best for producing the chemical processing industry and in liquid chromatography because of its high chemical resistance.

Ensuring you have the right and best material from the start of your manufacturing process will save you money and time. Moreover, it ensures optimal performance throughout your manufacturing process. Therefore, it's essential to research all the available options you have while also making consultations with some experienced plastic injection molders to help you make the right choice.