Material · Injection

Plastic material selection: PP, ABS, PC, PA

Function, environment and cost — when to choose which engineering plastic.

Material choice is as critical as steel grade and process. When a STEP arrives we discuss shrink, impact and heat resistance alongside walls and gates.

PP is common for cost and chemical resistance; it suits thin walls and fast cycles. ABS favors surface quality and dimensional stability for cosmetic parts.

PC leads when impact or clarity matters; drying and process windows can be tighter. PA (nylon) brings strength and wear resistance; moisture uptake must be in the dimensional plan.

Glass-filled grades raise wear, steel and cooling needs. Sharing a datasheet and target volume early keeps DFM notes accurate.

Quick selection checklist

  • Environment: heat, UV, chemicals, food contact
  • Mechanics: impact, stiffness, wear
  • Appearance: gloss / matte / clear
  • Cycle and cost target
  • Drying / moisture / shrink notes

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A STEP file or short note is enough.