The Top 3 Plastic Additives for UV Stabilization

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Exposure to UV Radiation
Over time, exposure to the UV radiation from sunlight will degrade plastics. Polymer photo-degradation occurs when non-visible UV radiation made up of short wave lengths breaks down the polymer chains in plastics. This is called the photo-degradation process.  It is caused by exposure to UV radiation and results in the deterioration of physical properties.  These include loss of impact strength, changes in color, cracking,  loss of elongation and tensile strength as well as chalking of the surface. … Read more

uv radiation

Don’t Sweat It! These 4 High Temp Plastics Can Take the Heat

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Choosing the Right Plastic for the Job
When choosing a heat resistant plastic, it is important to pick the best material for the job. Costly damages can then be avoided. More and more, these high temperature plastics are taking the stage because they are light, versatile alternatives to metal, ceramics and older-generation polymers.
Operating Temperatures
Some plastics have permanent operating temperatures of more than 150° C and often use special reinforcing materials, … Read more

heat resistant

Why PEEK Material is at the Top of Its Class

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PEEK Material
One of the most popular high performance plastic materials currently on the market is PEEK or polyetheretherkatone.  But what makes PEEK such a dynamic material?
Polyetheretherketone refers to a semi-crystalline organic polymer thermoplastic exhibiting a highly stable chemical structure. Consequently that gives it an edge over other materials. It is a member of the Polyaryletherketone or PAEK polymer group. There are exclusive PEEK properties which make this material find numerous applications in various industries. … Read more

PEEK

Design Benefits of Thermoplastics in Pump and Valve Components

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Thermoplastic components strengthen pumps and valves through resistance to corrosion, lower repair costs and extended service lives, which is why operators are choosing plastics over metal parts. There are many more advantages to using plastics, including decreased vibration and higher temperature thresholds that enhance operational efficiency. Ultimately, all of the thermoplastic design benefits equate to cost-savings and greater reliability in the field.

Temperature Resistance
Thermoplastics have less thermal conductivity compared to metal components, which is beneficial for preventing damage to pumps and valves exposed to high internal and external temperatures. … Read more

thermoplastics in pumps and valves

6 Popular Applications of Plastic Materials in Home Building

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Plastic materials are used heavily in the home building process in everything from flooring to insulation, making plastics an indispensable part of the home building industry. The applications of plastics are both practical and aesthetic, with uses so wide ranging they’re hard to categorize. Some of the most important applications impact not only the utility of homes, but also their resale value.
 
Plumbing Fixtures
Plumbing valves, pipes, decorative handles and seals are often made of plastic, … Read more

plastics in home building