Food Packaging and Engineering Plastics: Two Different Worlds
When we think about plastic, it's easy to associate it with packaging. That's understandable, as it makes up a large part of the plastic waste we see around us. But there's another type of plastic, engineering plastic, which is significantly different. It's used in the manufacture of products and structures with completely different requirements.
You'll find a wide selection of engineering plastics with us, such as HDPE, UHMWPE, POM-C, and PA6. These materials are construction materials intended for use in applications with high demands on wear and stress. Their lifespan is often measured in decades, in contrast to disposable packaging.
What is Engineering Plastic?
Engineering plastic is developed to meet specific needs in various industries. It's used in products that require high mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and other special properties. For example, it can be found in machine parts, vehicle components, and building materials.
An important characteristic is its long lifespan. While packaging plastic is often intended for single use, engineering plastic can be used for many years without losing its properties. It's designed to withstand tough conditions, unlike packaging plastic, which is often optimized for low cost and weight.
Engineering Plastic and the Environment
Many people think all plastic is bad for the environment. But engineering plastic can actually have a positive environmental impact. By replacing metal with engineering plastic in products and structures, we can reduce weight, which leads to lower energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions.
For example, we offer PA6, which has a Shore hardness of 65° D. The material is light and has high mechanical strength, making it suitable for vehicle components and other high-performance products. By choosing PA6 instead of metal, product weight and energy consumption can be reduced.
Engineering plastic is developed to be efficient and durable, while packaging plastic often prioritizes low cost. In addition, engineering plastic is recyclable and can be used in new products.
Reduce Environmental Impact
How can we reduce plastic's environmental impact? Increased recycling is an important measure. By recycling plastic, we reduce waste in nature and the need for new raw materials.
We can also reduce the use of packaging plastic and replace it with engineering plastic where possible. In addition, we can develop more sustainable and efficient packaging solutions.
Perhaps we don't really understand how much of an impact plastic has on the environment?
We offer a wide range of engineering plastics that can help you develop more sustainable and efficient solutions. Please contact us for more information about how we can help you.
Food Packaging and Engineering Plastics: Two Different Worlds