Electronics
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.
Oil Drilling & Exploration
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.
Medical
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, moulded, or
formed into almost any shape imaginable.
Food Processing
Whenever food is being packaged or prepared, clean
and sterilisable surfaces and vessels are critical. Plastics play a
key role in mixing, cooking, packaging and transportation 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.
Oil Refinery &
Transportation
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.
Underwater Seismology
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.
Automotive
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.
Semiconductor Manufacturing
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.
Chemical Manufacturing
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.
Logging & Forestry
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.
Water & Waste Treatment
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.
Materials Handling
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.
Aerospace & Flight
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.
Tomorrow's Industry
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.
