Polymers
Standard, engineering and high performance polymers
Standard, Engineering and High Performance Polymers
We have an in-depth knowledge of polymers, so we know the right types of materials you will need to make your product. We find the most cost-effective and quality solution so you can leave the work to us.
The science of polymers
There is a lot to consider when choosing the right plastic resin for a part; it’s basically a science! With over 85 thousand types of injection moulding plastic materials to choose from, we can only imagine how overwhelming it can be for product designers, engineers, and entrepreneurs alike to get their material selection correct and can sometimes seem like a minefield task.
Material can influence production lead times, cycle times, finished part quality and cost, among other things so narrowing down that extensive list of materials is a critical task right from the very start of your project. By choosing the right material, you can improve the form, fit and function of your parts.
In this article, we look at the basic characteristics of polymers with some examples of popular resins, their applications, and any considerations to make when choosing your material.
At WSM we have an expert materials team on hand to help you with your material selection. If you can’t find what you are looking for here, contact us via our project enquiry form and we’ll do our utmost to support you further.
Below are some common materials and their benefits:
| Polymer | Benefits |
| HDPE - Polyethylene (high-density) | Easily forms into lightweight containers |
| LDPE - Polyethylene (low-density) | Stretches into fine, tough, films |
| PET - Polyethylene terephalate | Easy to mould, chemical resistant, lightweight, strong |
| PP - Polypropylene |
Lightweight, flexible, doesn't absorb water, doesn't mould in presence of bacteria. PP is wear-resistant, flexible and can have very high elongation. It’s also resistant to acids and bases. |
| POM - Acetal | High stiffness, low friction, resistant to impact |
| PMMA - Acrylic | Durability, lightweight, smooth surface, easy to clean, affordable |
| Nylon (Polyamides) | Tough with thermal and chemical resistance |
| PS - Polystyrene | Resistant to moisture, lightweight, provides insulation, clean |
| PVC - Polyvinyl chloride | Versatile - cuts, shapes, welds and joins in a variety of styles. Good insulation, lightweight |
Why use us?
Over 25 years' experience in tool making and plastic injection moulding manufacture.
- Bespoke solutions
- A responsive supply chain
- A UK-based technical team
- A UK-based project management team
- In-house design support
- Bridge tooling
- Serial production tooling
- Engineering grade polymers
- Rapid prototypes
- A proud member of Made in Britain
- Low and high volume production
- DFM feedback
- Material expertise
- Alternative far east tooling and production solutions
Clear benefits for your business
Alongside standard and engineering polymers WSM Plastics actively promotes and uses recycled polymers where possible.
WSM Plastics is a proud member of the Made In Britain association and seeks to offer UK made solutions first.
From high volume to low volume plastic parts production, we support you throughout your entire project
To find out more about how WSM Plastics can benefit your business visit our contact us page.
Interested in working with us? Discuss your next project with our dedicated team:
+44 (0)1903 875888 or email