Engineering plastics / polymers are mainly known for their better mechanical and thermal properties than other common plastic raw materials. Most used engineering plastics include ABS, PC, and Nylon.
Engineering plastics and polymers are known to be produced in small quantities. They are mainly used in small to micro plastic products. It is also used in low weight and heavy-duty applications (such as mechanical parts).
Mechanical properties:
Engineering plastics are:
Engineering plastics are currently being used to replace traditional engineering materials such as metals, glass, or ceramics in many applications. This is due to its superiority in mechanical properties such as weight, durability, and other properties. Engineering plastics are also much easier to manufacture, especially in complex shapes. across all different types of products. More than 22 million tons of engineering plastics were consumed worldwide in 2020.
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene or ABS’s light weight and ability to be injection molded and extruded make it useful in manufacturing products such as drain-waste-vent (DWV) pipe systems. Musical instruments such as recorders, plastic oboes and clarinets, piano movements, and keyboard keycaps are commonly made out of ABS.
Polycarbonate is mainly used for electronic applications that capitalize on its collective safety features. A good electrical insulator with heat-resistant and flame-retardant properties, it is used in products associated with power systems and telecommunications hardware.
Nylon 66 is frequently used when high mechanical strength, rigidity, good stability under heat and/or chemical resistance are required. It is used in fibers for textiles and carpets and molded parts. It is also used in airbags, apparel, and for carpet fibres.