Types of plastics

In today's market, there is an abundance of various plastics available. This can sometimes make it challenging to select the right type that suits your situation. At ANKRO, we are experts in machining plastics, and we are happy to advise you on which type is best suited for your situation. Below, you will find an overview of the most commonly used plastics.

pom c product
POM-C

POM-C, also known as polyoxymethylene, is characterized by its high rigidity, low friction, and excellent resistance.

petp product[1]
PETP

PETP, also known as polyethylene terephthalate, is a thermoplastic polymer widely used in various industries and applications.

ptfe product
PTFE

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a high-performance fluoropolymer known for its unique properties and advantages.

pvdf product
PVDF

Polyvinylidene fluoride, better known as PVDF, is a high-performance thermoplastic appreciated for its unique combination of properties.

pe(1)
PE

PE, also known as polyethylene, is a versatile material with unique properties that make it suitable for a wide range of applications.

pa6
PA6

PA6, or polyamide 6, is a widely used thermoplastic known for its high strength, rigidity, and toughness.

pp
PP

PP, also known as polypropylene, is a widely used plastic known for its excellent stiffness, low density, and good chemical resistance.

Kunststof producten ANKRO
OTHER PLASTICS

Other plastics have various properties suitable for a wide range of applications, such as diversity in toughness, rigidity, or strength.

WHAT ARE PLASTICS?

Plastics, also known as polymers, are materials created through chemical processes. They can vary in properties such as flexibility, strength, heat resistance, and more, depending on the molecules used to form the polymers during the chemical process.

Since the discovery of plastics, this material has had a significant impact on various aspects of our lives. The material is highly popular in various sectors due to its versatility, low cost, and ability to be tailored to specific and precise needs. At ANKRO, we mainly work with plastics formed into sheets, tubes, rods, or similar items.

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THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF PLASTICS

At ANKRO, we work with a wide range of polymers. Each situation requires its unique properties from the product, so it is essential to choose the right type in advance. From flexible and impact-resistant plastics to heat-resistant and chemically resistant options, all are designed to meet specific technical needs.

Recognizing plastics is highly valued among our colleagues at ANKRO. If a wrong identification is made, other properties must be considered during processing and product use. To avoid this, we teach new colleagues to always correctly identify the material. At ANKRO, we categorize the plastics we process into two different types:

Engineering plastics

Technical plastics are designed to meet specific technical requirements. Some are more wear-resistant, while others excel in sliding properties. These polymers form the core of production processes, delivering reliable performance in critical applications. Common technical plastics include:

High performance plastics

High-performance plastics offer exceptional properties for demanding conditions. They have earned the name "high-performance" due to their impressive heat resistance and chemical resistance. These materials play an essential role in industries where reliability and performance under extreme conditions are crucial. Common high-performance types include:

Struggling to Choose the Right Type for Your Situation? No problem at all! Contact one of our specialists today for free advice on the right decision!

PLASTICS MACHINING

At ANKRO, we understand better than anyone that machining plastics requires extensive knowledge of the material itself. During the machining of plastics, many diverse properties must be considered. By accounting for these different properties, a choice can be made between plastic milling, plastic turning, or a combination of both. To guarantee the right finish with the correct tolerances, it is essential to select the appropriate machines and tools before starting the machining process.

HOW ARE PLASTICS MADE?

The production of plastics is a highly complex process known as polymerization. This process starts with very small molecules that are linked together to form long chains. The final result of linking these small molecules is a wide range of plastics with diverse properties.

Another common question is what raw materials plastics are made from. These materials are mainly derived from petroleum and natural gas, or fossil fuels. These raw materials contain hydrocarbons, which ultimately form the building blocks. The choice of raw material influences the properties of the final plastic and can vary based on the desired application.

APPLICATION OF PLASTICS

Plastic applications are widely used across various industries. The main reason for this is that this material is versatile and easily adaptable. Plastic applications are not only limited to technical or industrial areas but also extend to consumer products. This has made the material very important in our society, where it plays a crucial role in the food, graphic, petrochemical, pharmaceutical, and analytical industries.

TRANSPARENT AND RECYCLABLE PLASTICS

Transparent and recyclable plastics play a crucial role in striving for sustainability and responsible material use. Due to their recyclability, these materials contribute to a greener future. Additionally, transparent plastics are often used as prototypes. They allow for precise checking of whether the product meets all specific requirements. Furthermore, we increasingly use these types to balance functionality and environmental consciousness.

ANKRO'S SPECIALIZATION IN PLASTICS MACHINING

For over 25 years, ANKRO Kunststof Verspaning has worked with a wide variety of plastics, providing our customers with the highest quality products. At ANKRO, we not only process plastics but also advise you on which type best suits your situation. This way, you can be sure you are getting the right product for the right application. Request a quote now and get advice from one of our specialists!

Questions or interest?

Please feel free to contact us. You can do so by phone at +31 (0)183 304 872 or by filling out the contact form. We will handle your question as soon as possible.

vestigingsmanager ankro 2
Gerben van Boxel
Branch manager
info@ankro.nl
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