How to Re-Engineer Your Metal Parts into Plastic Parts
Plastic continues to evolve with many benefits of metal plus much more.
Moving from metal to plastic is still a challenge for many manufacturers. Plastic is only getting more advanced and sophisticated with the years. It currently presents almost all the same benefits as metal, while addressing weight and flexibility concerns that only plastic can.
Unparalleled Versatility across Industries
A significant draw for plastic is its versatility and flexibility in a range of applications. These include:
- Tensile strength comparable to metal
- Almost 50% reduced weight compared to metal
- Can be designed for almost any regulatory standard
- Better aesthetics and in-mold applications
The sheer variety of engineered plastics available has expanded in the past few years. There are over 25,000 types that can be used in manufacturing applications. New blends and varieties are constantly being designed, depending on the project specifications of the client.
Case Study: Support for Motor Mount
At K&B Molded Products, we have had decades of experience helping clients make the transition from metal to plastic. In one case, we assisted in designing a support motor mount for use in a pump assembly as part of a residential septic system.
The original design included a number of specifications such as tight tolerances and multiple threaded holes. Manufacturing these specifications out of brittle cast iron made the part unstable.
By switching to a polyester alloy, we were able to provide the impact strength and necessary chemical resistance without risking mechanical performance. Numerous rips were incorporated to compensate for the mass of the cast iron, with the holes molded in for added stability.
Moving from Metal to Plastic
K&B Molded Products has long been helping companies make the transition from metal to plastic for the same strength benefits with a faster turnaround at a much lower price point. Our new eBook, Moving from Metal to Plastic, has everything you need to know about the process.
Download your free copy today, and contact us with any questions.
