Plastics have been gaining popularity over the years as materials applied in a variety of industries. We are increasingly encountering products in which plastic plays a central role. Yet, in order to properly exploit the potential of this material, it is essential to follow certain design principles. In this article, we will outline the most important factors to be borne in mind when creating plastic components.
Technical and functional highlights
The first step in designing plastic parts is to analyse their technical and functional requirements. It is relevant to ask yourself what properties the given component should have and what operating conditions it will have to fulfil. It is also necessary to take into account the specific material to be used. Their diversity makes the right choice of material key to the success of a project. Examples of aspects to be taken into consideration include resistance to abrasion, temperature or UV radiation, as well as resistance to mechanical loads, such as pressure or bending.
Optimisation of the production process
Another important aspect is the optimisation of the production process. When designing plastic parts it is worth taking into account the method of their production already at the stage of creating the concept. Depending on the size of the production batch, the different technologies and machines used for plastics processing, there may be differences in the requirements for part geometry and dimensional tolerances. In this context, it is fundamental to take into account factors such as the type of injection mould, cooling method or production cycle time.
Risk management and quality control
The last aspect that is worth considering when designing plastic elements, which, among others NOEX – the manufacturer of plastic products – is engaged with, is risk management and quality control. This involves identifying potential problems that may occur during project implementation and developing strategies to minimise these risks. It is also crucial to pay attention to the correct labelling of plastics according to market regulations and to strictly adhere to the requirements of the quality standards.