EPP Corporation-Plastic Machining Experts

How to use the Plastic Design Guide

1. Refer to the Design Considerations at the bottom of this page. Consider whether each item on the checklist is a factor in the application or affects performance requirements for the component design.
2. Select the categories that have the greatest affect on your application.
3. Review the materials in the Plastic Properties Handbook and make a list of possible material candidates.
4. Contact our technical support to discuss options or ask additional questions.

Plastic Machining Design Considerations

• Thermosensitivity – tolerance can change in different temperature conditions
• Sensitivity to humidity and hygroscopic absorption affects tolerance
• Sensitivity to chemicals and oils
• Notch sensitive corners and square ID’s
• Tolerances
• High loads
• High impact
• Fatigue loading or cycle loading requires consideration of flexing, deflecting, and compression
• Temperature – max/min extent of time
• Electrical considerations such as insulating properties
• Wear resistance or abrasion resistance
• Dimensional shape retention (load, cold flow, temperature)
• Regulatory requirements (FDA, UL, etc.)
• Appearance (color, texture)
• Optical requirements
• Outdoor use

Now that you’ve identified the important factors in your application, evaluate material specs in the Plastic Properties Handbook and select your material!