Robotics Make It Possible, Plastics Make It Happen

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Ever watched “The Jetsons”? It was a ‘60s cartoon family living in the future. George Jetson drove a gas-free hovercraft. Jane, his wife, and the school-age children chatted on mobile and video calls. The family also had a spunky robotic maid, Rosie, who cleaned and maneuvered around a talking dog, Astro.
Today we live like the Jetsons. We see gas-free electric cars on the road. We rely on the internet for everyday activities. Perhaps you’re reading this blog on a mobile phone. … Read more

4 THERMAL PROPERTIES OF PLASTICS

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Generally, there are four commonly used thermal properties of plastics: Heat Deflection Temperature, Continuous Service Temperature, Melting Point or for some, Glass Transition Temperature (Tg) and Coefficient of Thermal Expansion.

Heat Deflection Temperature (ASTM D648)
Heat Deflection Temperature or heat distortion temperature (HDT) is the temperature at which a polymer deforms to heating or cooling under a specified load. ASTM stands for the American Society for Testing and Materials which is an international society that develops and publishes voluntary technical standards for materials among other things. … Read more

PLASTIC VS. METAL

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Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Material for Your Product
 
Much of the prolific growth in the plastic industry over the past several decades has been fueled by the replacement of metal products and components. Examples are numerous, and include canoes, airplane parts, medical implants, missile components, gas cans, and car parts. Along the way, many designers have had to evaluate whether to use plastic or metal in their applications. Below are some of the considerations that may be helpful. … Read more

Plastic-vs-Metal

The Shape of a Machine Screw

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So the screw in my reading lamp fell out and disappeared. I propped it up but from time to time it would let loose and crash down on my face. A trip to the hardware store was clearly in order.  Replacing the screw was easier said than done.  There are so many types. Different threads, head styles, lengths, drives and other criteria.  So what was that screw?
 
The Simple Screw
The screw is one of the six classical simple machines. … Read more

STAR WARS MEETS MODERN PLASTIC RESEARCH

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The desolate emptiness and darkness of space is interrupted only by the twinkling light of distant stars and galaxies as you scan the instrument panel before you. Suddenly, without warning, a laser cannon blast rips through the hull of your X-wing fighter! Not to worry. The fuselage employs a regenerative plastic composite that heals itself within seconds of impact. The dangers that occur in the life of the Jedi Knight are never-ending, including the hand you lost in a light sword battle with the Dark Lord. … Read more