News & Insights

Creep resistant plastics are essential materials for engineers designing components that must maintain dimensional stability under constant stress. Creep, defined as the change in length or shape over an extended period of time due to continuously applied static stress, occurs when polymer molecules rearrange and flow over time when subjected to constant stress. This phenomenon can be detrimental to the function of products across multiple industries, particularly in applications where... Read More

Glass transition temperature determines when a polymer changes from a rigid state to a semi-flexible state. The difference between Glass Transition Temperature and Melting Point in Thermoplastics shows how materials behave under varying temperature conditions. Different polymers have substantially different glass transition temperatures (Tg). Polyetherimide (PEI) has a high Tg of 210°C, while High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)'s Tg sits at -120°C. The cooling rate affects this property - materials cooled... Read More

Drawings of plastic parts often specify tolerances that are tighter than the practical limitations for dimensionally stable plastics. Unlike metals, plastics present unique engineering challenges due to their higher thermal expansion rates, moisture absorption properties, and residual stress behaviors that significantly impact dimensional stability. For instance, nylon can absorb moisture at an extreme rate, with test specimens showing an 8.8% increase in mass and a 2% increase in length at... Read More

The global surgical robots market, valued at $3.92 billion, is estimated to reach $7.42 billion by 2030. Precision machined components for orthopedic navigation devices serve as the foundation for this rapidly expanding field, enabling surgeons to achieve remarkable levels of accuracy during complex procedures. Robotic systems are transforming orthopedic surgery by facilitating new approaches. These advanced navigation systems combine cutting-edge technologies and provide real-time guidance during surgeries, significantly enhancing a... Read More

When aerospace applications demand exceptional performance under extreme conditions, engineers often find themselves choosing between two elite high-performance thermoplastics: Vespel® and Torlon®. While Vespel® offers excellent thermal stability (Vespel® has the ability to maintain strength at temperatures up to 550 degrees Fahrenheit and withstand brief exposures to 900 degrees), chemical resistance, and dielectric strength, Torlon® provides even greater mechanical properties and load-bearing capabilities. In fact, both materials have carved out... Read More