Options: ABS | HMW/HDPE | PC/ABS | Other Materials
Materials Selection
The Materials Review Program at McClarin Plastics, LLC is a structured format of inviting domestic and international material suppliers to meet with our Design Review team and present the latest material product developments, quarterly to improve our ability to find new solutions for customers.
McClarin researches the benefits and disadvantages of each plastic component from acrylic plastic components to PVC plastic components to provide our clients with information to make the best choice for each individual project.
White Paper: The Plastics Advantage
by Don Mebius, Value Engineering Manager for McClarin Plastics
The chart below gives an idea of what materials may be best for a particular project. (add plastic components after material in chart, aka. acrylic plastic components)
| Materials | Appearance/ Characteristics |
Plus | Minus |
| PVC | Glossy surface | Dielectric properties, good cosmetics, chemical resistance, fire retardant | Possible building code restrictions |
| ABS | Medium gloss level | Tough, hard, easily decorated, easily bonded | Needs UV stabilization for outdoor use, needs additives for fire retardancy |
| Polyethylene | Dull, slippery surface | Impact resistance, chemical resistance, environmental stress crack resistance | Difficult to paint or decorate, difficult to adhesive bond, flexibility |
| TPO | Dull surface | Impact resistance, several formulations available for specific applications | Flexible, processing is tricky |
| Polycarbonate | Good surface cosmetics | High impact resistance, stiff | Low abrasion resistance, crazes in contact with hydrocarbons |
| Acrylic | Excellent cosmetics, high gloss | Excellent transparency, good optical properties | Low impact resistance |