by Bing Carbone
Plastic fabrication is a term for the process used to create plastic products. These processes include thermoforming, extrusion, molding, machining, stamping and many other varieties. Plastic has a broad variety of uses and is everywhere in our society. In industry, it is a vital component in almost every manufacturing sector. Here are a few of the industrial solutions that custom plastic fabrication offers.
Custom Plastic Fabrication
Custom plastic fabrication or manufacturing, is used to create machined, engineering and custom plastics of all varieties. These include just about everything from washers to specialized electronic components. Plastics can be found in the automotive industry, food and drink processing, and the restaurant and food service industries.
Plastic is an important part of the electronics industry as well as the cosmetics, medical and pharmaceutical sectors. Consumer goods and construction industries rely heavily on plastics.
Types of Plastic
There are materials out there that you probably don’t even realize are plastics. These can include the following:
- Nylon
- Polyester
- Polyvinyl
- Polystyrene
- Styrofoam
- Polyethylene
- Acrylics
- ABS
- Kevlar
There are few materials as diverse and adaptable as plastic.
A Popular Alternative
Due to its sturdy, near-unbreakable nature and versatility, plastic has become a popular alternative for many building materials. It can be used as a substitute for wood, metal and glass. It is easy to produce and very inexpensive in comparison to these other materials. It also is long-lasting and resilient to temperature, environmental conditions, moisture, chemicals, vibration and impact.
A few of the common uses for plastic fabrication that you may not have considered are:
- Washers
- Bearings
- Bushings
- Adapters
- Guide Rings
- Insulation
- Shims
- O-Rings
- Electronics
- Signs
- Packing and Shipping materials
- Agricultural equipment
- Engineering
- Lighting
Fabrication of Plastic
Most plastics originate as a resin powder, pellets or flakes. These are subjected to high pressure and heat to create sheets that can later be formed into a variety of products from nuts and bolts to furniture and equipment. Processes to form plastic include molding, vacuum forming and extrusion, among others. Usually these processes are computer-controlled, using CNC (Computer Numerically Controlled) equipment, which provides a precise, fast and efficient process that provides high volumes and excellent quality control.
Once the plastic product is formed, additional fabrication processes can be applied to add decoration, color and further shaping. From punching, stamping, engraving, bending, drilling, tapping and assembly to dying, cutting and carving, the type and amount of fabrication that is needed depends largely on the product being produced.
Size, working temperature ranges, tensile strength, hardness and color are all factors that come into play when determining the processes that may be required during the fabrication process. Most plastic fabrication companies can offer a broad variety of options to create product, and if they do not offer the needed service, they know someone who can.
If you are ready to explore the world of plastic fabrication, we provide a broad variety of services to our customers. Take a look at what we have to offer and feel free to give us a call for a quote today!
