Whether you manufacture toys or design plumbing systems, chances are you rely on thermoplastics. Used in everything from retail packaging to bullet-proof vests, thermoplastics are one of the most versatile—and essential—materials in the modern world. Use the guide below to help you understand more about this material and how to use it to your advantage.

What Are Thermoplastics?

Comprised of chemically independent macromolecules, thermoplastics are formed when monomers link into continuous chains. This leads to a reversible curing process, which means thermoplastics can be melted and recast over and over. As such, they’re easily recyclable. Some of the most common thermoplastic materials include polystyrene, polyethylene, polycarbonate, and polypropylene.

How Can You Use Thermoplastics?

With a little creativity and enough material, there’s virtually no limit to the ways in which you can use thermoplastics. Some of the most common applications include product packaging, plumbing fixtures, sports equipment, medical devices, and automotive trim. You’ll also find thermoplastics in food storage containers, shampoo bottles, electronic devices, and toys. 

The Advantages

Thermoplastics are incredibly durable, which makes them ideal for applications that demand high-tensile strength, like grocery bags. And since these materials are so easy to recycle, they’re also perfect for prototyping new products. After testing the prototype and determining what needs to change, you can simply melt it down and use the materials to produce the next model, repeating the process until every feature has been finalized. 

There are economic reasons to opt for thermoplastics, as well. For example, the overall stock of material produces a relatively high yield because of its recoverability. In other words, the waste that results during production can be recovered and remelted for other applications. 

For high quality thermoform plastic products, turn to Faro Industries. Founded in Rochester, NY, in 1967, they supply clients around the globe with packaging, prototypes, and other custom plastic products. A one-stop-shop, this full-service plastics manufacturer can meet all of your assembly and production needs while exceeding your expectations every step of the way. To learn more about their work, visit their website. To request a quote for packaging or other products, call (585) 647-6000.