Properties and Applications of Rigid Plastic Extrusion Profiles
Rigid plastic extrusion profiles are used in many industries, including automotive, showers, recreational vehicles, construction, and medical applications. These extrusions tend to be very strong and durable, however, depending on the extrusion method, they can have other properties. For example, rigid plastic extrusion profiles can be co-extruded with a flexible polymer in order to yield products with both flexible and rigid properties.
These rigid extrusions tend to be resistant to the elements and extremely durable. This makes them good for applications that are typically used outside, are exposed to harsh conditions, or are exposed to varying extreme temperatures. In this blog, we will continue to explore the properties and applications of rigid plastic extrusion profiles and what plastics are used in the process.
Polymers Used in Rigid Plastic Extrusion Profiles and Their Properties
Rigid PVC
Rigid PVC has many beneficial properties, including high tensile strength, low flammability, insulating properties, and resistance to UV rays, impact, and chemicals. These various properties make it a versatile polymer. PVC is found in window frames, exterior siding, piping, pipe fittings, office furniture, and edging.
ABS
ABS is a common polymer for many industries with its insulating properties, impact resistance, dimensional stability, chemical and heat resistance, and high tensile strength. Generally, this polymer is used in automotive components, appliance components, medical equipment, dental instruments, and prosthetics.
ASA
Commonly used in exterior applications, ASA is known for its resistance to UV rays, chemicals, cracks, and heat. When manufacturing exterior siding, outdoor furniture, vehicle components, automotive components, electrical housings, power tools, and other outdoor applications.
Polyethylene
Polyethylene is a common polymer used in many applications. This polymer has a high tensile strength and is resistant to cracks, chemicals, and impact. Since polyethylene can be rigid or flexible, it can be used in various industries. Typically, it is found in packaging, insulation for wires and cables, bottles, houseware medical applications, and more.
Polypropylene
Polypropylene is one of, if not the, most common thermoplastic used today. With so many advantageous properties, polypropylene is used in many industries. It is resistant to heat, chemicals, and water, and has high impact tolerance and high tensile strength. Polypropylene is commonly used in medical tubing, insulation for electrical cables, plastic parts for equipment and machinery, indoor and outdoor furniture, automotive components, and more.
Create Rigid Plastic Extrusion Profiles with Custom Profile
At Custom Profile, we have been providing our customers with high-quality custom profile extruded and tubing extrusion products for over 30 years. We work with over 400 grades of polymers to create the products that meet your exact needs.
Our decades of experience have allowed us to perfect and expand our services. We have capabilities in various kinds of profile extrusion, including co-extrusion, dual durometer co-extrusion, tri-extrusion, and crosshead extrusion. On top of that, we are able to create numerous types of tubing through our extrusion processes. With sizes ranging from ⅛ inch to 3 inches in width and the ability to create rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible tubing, our team is able to provide you with what you need.
Once your product is manufactured, we can provide you with in-line operations and assembly and finishing services. Our in-line operations include notching, punching, taping, wood graining, and more. From ultrasonic welding to off-line punching to kitting, our assembly and finishing services are offered to make sure you get the exact product you are looking for.
With experience in creating parts for garage doors, windows, construction, commercial refrigeration, office furniture, medical applications, and more, Custom Profile is here to take on any of your profile extrusion or tubing extrusion projects. Contact us today to get started.