Not sure which plastic is right for your product? Read our descriptions below or use our Material Selection Guide.
PVC is the most common plastic we use. It comes in two forms: rigid PVC (hard, stiff) and flexible PVC (soft, bendable). It is affordable, weather resistant, and chemical resistant.
ABS is a hard, impact-resistant plastic. It does not crack easily when hit. It has a smooth surface that is easy to paint or print on.
HDPE is a stiff, tough plastic that lasts a very long time outdoors. It does not absorb water and resists most chemicals. It is also food safe.
PP is a lightweight, heat-resistant plastic. It is used in many products you see every day. PP can be made with a hinge that flexes thousands of times without breaking.
Polycarbonate is a very tough, transparent plastic. It is much stronger than glass but lighter. It can take hard impacts without cracking.
Nylon is a very strong engineering plastic. It is often used for parts that rub against other parts, because it is naturally slippery and wear-resistant. It does not need lubrication.
| Plastic | Cost | Strength | Heat Resistance | Chemical Resistance | Flexibility | Food Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PVC (Rigid) | Low | Medium | Medium | Good | Rigid | Some grades |
| PVC (Flexible) | Low | Low | Medium | Good | Very Flexible | Some grades |
| ABS | Medium | High | Medium | Fair | Rigid | No |
| HDPE | Low-Medium | Medium-High | Medium | Excellent | Semi-rigid | Yes |
| PP | Low-Medium | Medium | Good | Excellent | Semi-rigid | Yes |
| Polycarbonate | High | Very High | High | Fair | Rigid | Some grades |
| Nylon (PA6) | Medium-High | Very High | High | Good | Rigid | Some grades |
Tell us what your part needs to do and where it will be used. We will recommend the best material for your application and budget.