TIPS FOR BETTER PLASTIC PRODUCT DESIGN

Have you considered the operating temperature of your plastic product? Technical data-sheets provide material properties at room temperature and recommend a suitable service temperature range. However, material behaviour at the upper end of this range can differ significantly from properties observed at room temperature, potentially affecting short-term performance and, more critically, long-term durability. Read here o(https://www.positiveplastics.eu/post/elevated-temperatures)ur tips on designing plastic products for elevated temperatures.

Considering low service temperatures when designing a plastic product is crucial. While a cold environment can enhance the strength and stiffness of the plastic, it often reduces flexibility and increases brittleness, which can significantly affect impact strength. Additionally, low temperatures may cause dimensional changes. Read our tips (https://www.positiveplastics.eu/post/plastic-in-low-temperatures)on designing plastic products for low temperatures.

In plastic products, UV light exposure is often associated with color changes, such as yellowing. However, it's important to recognize that UV light also weakens the mechanical properties of virtually all common thermoplastics. Proper material selection and thorough testing are essential for mitigating the effects of UV light on your plastic product.

Nearly all plastic products encounter chemical substances at some point during their lifespan. While exposure to gasoline, acids, or strong alcohols is usually considered, your product may also face challenges from everyday substances like hand lotion, sweat, or cleaning detergents. Especially when combined with elevated temperatures or continuous loads, improper chemical exposure can lead to long-term failures, particularly in amorphous polymers such as ABS, PC, or PS.