In order to help our customers understand how plastics are used in various
businesses, we have prepared "industry-specific" applications pages. Refer
to the links below for plastics applications for a specific industry, or
contact us for more details.
Plastics are used extensively throughout the semiconductor industry,
especially where high-temperature processing is required. Plastics are
dimensionally stable at high and low temperatures, provide clean &
contaminant-free surfaces, and are not affected by harsh chemicals,
strong acids, or solvents. New plastics continue to replace metal parts
for wafer handling, bearing surfaces, processing vessels, parts carriers,
and IC test equipment sockets & handlers. For more information, select
the link above.
Every day, plastics are involved in critical surgeries, life-saving
efforts, and routine medical procedures. Plastic materials can be
sterilized hundreds of times without degradation. Lightweight plastics
are used to form replacement joints, non-surgical supports, and therapy
equipment. Clear plastics provide visibility for transfusions,
surgeries, and diagnostic equipment of all kinds. And
plastics can be machined, molded, or formed into almost any shape
imaginable. For more information, select the link above.
Whenever food is being packaged or prepared, clean and sterilizable
surfaces and vessels are critical. Plastics play a key role in mixing,
cooking, packaging and transportion of all types of food. Plastics can be
heated or cooled repeatedly without affecting food taste or appearance.
Food preparation equipment made with plastics can be frequently
disinfected and sterilized without fear of degradation. Bearing or load
surfaces made from plastics will not introduce dangerous shavings and
require no lubrication. For more information, select the link above.
Because there are so many different types available, plastics materials
are ideal for use in electrical and electronic applications. Plastics can
withstand high voltages and high temperatures without degradation. The
insulating properties of plastics are well-known, but some materials are
available which are surface- or volume-conductive. Composite materials
combine properties to make ideal components with mechanical strength,
high dielectric constants, and other important characteristics. For more
information, select the link above.
When high pressures, high temperatures, abrasive fluids and saltwater combine, only
plastics can withstand the attack. Plastics are ideal for use in
protective equipment, surface coatings, and even structural components.
Proper material selection can give long life under conditions which
destroy most metals. When cost, down-time, and rig personnel safety are
critical, plastics are often the best choice for drilling applications.
And, because of their advanced properties, composites are used in down-
hole equipment bearings, seals, connectors, and insulators. For more
information, select the link above.
In the oil industry, process vessels, tanks and seals are often subjected
to high temperatures, extreme pressures, and corrosive chemicals. Failure
of components can be expensive in both time and money. Plastics are
available which can maintain their properties and withstand the severe
conditions. For more information, select the link above.
Because of their high strength, resistance to corrosion, and insulating
properties, plastics are ideal for use in Underwater Seismology. Plastics
provide excellent protection for delicate instruments and do not interfere
with electronic or mechanical signals as they are transmitted and received.
And there's no chance of degradation due to saltwater, chemicals or oils.
For more information, select the link above.
The automotive industry is always searching for higher strength materials
that are lightweight and easy to fabricate. Plastics can provide cost-
effective solutions to many difficult automotive applications. Some of
the newer high-performance plastics can withstand the high temperatures
of engine compartments and maintain excellent resistance to combustion
products and solvents. Composite materials are strong, wear-resistant,
and can handle high loads and impact. Some plastics can be metal-plated
for decorative components where appearance is a premium. For more
information, select the link above.
For flight applications, plastics are used for their high
strength-to-weight ratios. Many high-tech plastics were originally
developed as a result of research for the space programs. Advanced
polymers are used because of the extreme temperatures found at high-
altitudes and in outer space. Low friction, high strength, and
temperature stability are often important reasons why plastics are used.
For underwater simulations of in-space operations, plastics do not
corrode and provide neutral buoyancy for realistic practice sessions.
For more information, select the link above.
Chemical manufacturing can provide high temperature, high pressure, and
corrosive environments for all materials. Using some of the latest
plastic materials, process vessels, tanks and seals can be made which can
withstand the most severe chemical agents. Specialized materials can be
used for protection and containment of acids, alkalines, and all manner
of solvents. With proper material selection, expensive down-time and
component failure can be avoided. For more information, select the link
above.
Plastics are frequently used in manufacturing and maintenance of the
heavy equipment used to harvest trees, transport them to mills, and
process wood into wood products. Because of their toughness, durability,
and high impact strength, plastics are used for wear plates, bearings,
rollers, and other load-bearing members in this industry. For more
information, select the link above.
Plastic pipes, tanks, pump elements, and other components are often used
in Water & Waste Treatment equipment and systems. Plastics are inert and
can withstand harsh
chemicals, acids, alkalines, and solvents. Because of their high abrasion
resistance, plastics can be used for bearings, impellers, and valve
parts. Plastic components often require less maintenance and can withstand
rough use without cracking or breaking. For more information, select the
link above.
Material handing equipment such as conveyors, carts, wheels, rollers,
slides, and transportation equipment are ideal applications for plastics.
Plastics are flexible and tough enough to withstand rough treatment and
abuse without breaking. Bearings and wear surfaces made from plastics are
low friction and tough. For more information, select the link above.
As new industries develop, new uses for plastics and composite materials
are continually coming to light. High-technology materials continue to
combine versatile properties for specialized applications. Often new
plastics materials are developed to replace metals, glasses, ceramics,
and natural materials. At the rapid pace of today's world, only plastics
can keep up with the demand for low-cost and high-tech materials
solutions. For more information, select the link above.
Industry Applications
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Copyright Boedeker Plastics, Inc.