Engineering Plastics and Why They are Used in Manufacturing Gaskets
07 November 2022Many components of machines may still possess some gaps despite being manufactured with optimal dimensions. Fortunately, they can be paired with gaskets to effectively seal any gap they may possess.
Gaskets, after all, are intended to close the gap between the surfaces of machine components and other similar things. Once installed, they can effectively prevent leakage of solid particles, liquid, and other media while being under compression. They can likewise retain their shape and form factor despite being subjected to various operating conditions.
Most gaskets today have been made from rubber thanks to their excellent sealing properties, chemical resistance, and low purchase costs. They can, however, fail once they have been exposed to too much friction and heat.
Engineering Plastics as the Alternative
Given the weaknesses of rubber, some industries may want to utilise different materials. One great alternative to rubber is engineering plastics.
Engineering plastics are plastic materials that have been modified to become stronger than base or commodity plastics like polyethylene, polystyrene, and polypropylene. They can even exceed the qualities usually found on more expensive and more popular gasket materials, making them useful in a lot of industries.
Common Types of Engineering Plastics
When creating some gaskets and other products, manufacturers can opt for various types of engineering plastics. Some types of engineering plastics are as follows.
• Polyethylene Terephthalate: This type of engineering plastic is known for its high hardness, rigidity, and strength. These qualities allow this material to be utilised in products with complex parts. It can also generate products that prioritise surface quality and dimensional accuracy.
• Polyamide: Polyamide is another engineering plastic that slowly replaces the materials used in crafting car engine components, industrial valves, and other automotive parts. It is being utilised in many industries due to its high strength, high-temperature resistance, oil resistance, and chemical compatibility.
• Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene: Another engineering plastic that can be utilised by industries is acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. This plastic type can resist physical impact and corrosive chemicals. It can be used in electronic products, protective headgear, musical instruments, and other similar things.
• Polycarbonate: Polycarbonate is a type of engineering plastic that is 200% stronger than glass and 30% stronger than acrylic. The high-impact strength of polycarbonate, matched with great flexibility, makes this engineering plastic great for tons of household and industrial applications like sunglasses, roofing, and glazing.
• Polyvinyl Chloride: One more engineering plastic that can be useful for many industries is polyvinyl chloride. This plastic material can become either flexible or rigid, allowing manufacturers to process it into various forms. It can also blend with other materials.
Gaskets Made from Engineering Plastics
Gaskets made from engineering plastics generally have great impact resistance, chemical resistance, and heat resistance. They also boast excellent mechanical strength and fire retardancy. And since these gaskets can be generated in a short time, industries tend to acquire them without costing too much money.
Aside from these benefits, engineering plastic gaskets are likewise lightweight and eco-friendly. They can also absorb shock and vibration. To purchase high-quality engineering plastic gaskets, you can contact us at Gasketech.
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