Today, plastic has become a material of choice for manufacturers of outdoor applications. It is frequently used to make components in outdoor furniture, highway safety markers, metal wire coatings, and more. For manufacturers, it’s important to know how to choose the best plastic for outdoor uses as their material components
Inplex’s informational guide will help you choose the best plastic for outdoor use. Plastic components used to build outdoor applications should be durable and long-lasting. Keep reading to discover why top brands & manufacturers choose inplex to source their plastic materials for outdoor use.
According to Statista, The outdoor plastic furniture market size was valued at 8.4 billion U.S. dollars in 2018. It is forecasted to reach 9.64 billion U.S. dollars in 2023. The growth in this industry is related to the high demand for housing.
For example one of the many products creating a high demand for outdoor plastic components is outdoor furniture like pergolas and cabanas. Plastic components help make furniture more durable now than ever before. This is due to manufacturers increased knowledge of which plastic is best for outdoor use.
There are many benefits to using plastic for outdoor use. Unlike metal, plastic will not corrode, and unlike wood, it will not rot or absorb moisture. However, not all plastics are created equal, so it’s important to pick the right plastic for outdoor uses. Keep reading Inplex’s informative guide to help better understand how to choose the best plastic for the components in your outdoor application.
If you or your company are building outdoor structures, or need high-performing plastic for outdoor components, then it’s crucial to use custom high-quality plastic materials sourced from inplex.
High-quality plastics are durable. They are lightweight, yet quite strong and will not warp easily. They are also versatile; they’re easy to shape, customize, and adjust during the manufacturing process to meet specific requirements, meaning they can be used for a wide variety of applications.
For almost any type of plastic component that you need for outdoor use, there is likely at least one type of plastic that will meet your needs. Using the appropriate plastic will help ensure your outdoor components or applications function reliably and last longer. Make sure to consider local weather conditions, and choose a type of plastic that can withstand them.
Inplex Custom Extruders discusses the 3 best plastics for outdoor use below. Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and polycarbonate are manufacturers’ top picks for the best outdoor plastic materials. All of these plastic materials can be extruded into custom outdoor structure components by Inplex.
Each plastic has its own set of unique benefits. In fact, plastic materials offer all the advantages that glass, wood, and metal have. The difference is plastic materials for outdoor use have all these benefits and advantages combined in one extruded plastic material.
ABS plastic, a thermoplastic polymer, emulsifies acrylonitrile, butadiene, and styrene. The plastic can withstand high as well as very low temperatures. When exposed to high temperatures, ABS material will not burn. Instead, it will melt and liquefy. It can endure multiple heating and cooling cycles without losing its structural integrity. This characteristic makes ABS plastic the preferred choice for machining processes such as fabrication.
In 2020, extrusion accounted for 28% of the total ABS market share. The growing demand for lightweight, fuel-efficient vehicles that make use of ABS parts is further propelling plastic’s popularity. The ABS market is projected to grow to $40.8 billion by 2026.
The ABS polymer is an ideal plastic for outdoor use, especially in colder regions. It offers several benefits:
In addition to creating custom plastic components for outdoor use, Inplex can extrude ABS for various outdoor components and applications, including:
ABS plastic is one of the top plastic choices for many industrial, commercial and retail products. This is because of the long list of benefits the plastic material offers. Top brands choose ABS from Inplex for custom plastic components in outdoor products. ABS continues to be identified as one of the top plastics for outdoor use. This plastic material offers unique benefits for different industries and projects.
Below are articles that provide great insight into more of the appealing benefits of ABS plastic
HDPE is a petroleum-based thermoplastic polymer. It is a versatile plastic known for its tensile strength. HDPE plastic maintains its structural integrity even when heated, melted, and cooled many times. Even if it cracks over time, HDPE plastic is safe as it will not have sharp or harmful edges.
Enriching HDPE plastic with a UV stabilization additive during extrusion can make it an ideal candidate for outdoor use. HDPE is a great plastic for outdoor use as it offers many advantages, including
The sun-resistant plastic is used in various outdoor applications, including:
Polycarbonate is a highly pliable thermoplastic. Like ABS, polycarbonate plastic will not burn, but instead, turn into a liquid when subjected to high temperatures. It can be heated and cooled several times and is ideal for extrusion into tubes and profiles.
There are several reasons for using polycarbonate plastic for outdoor use and applications, including:
If you want to build a solid outdoor structure requiring all-weather protection, polycarbonate plastic is an excellent material for outdoor use. It is used in a variety of applications, including:
Inplex Custom Extruders have a devotion to providing fully customizable options, with the use of top-rated materials to create the highest quality products, and excellent customer service.
If you or your organization are interested in high-quality plastic components for outdoor use then look to Inplex Custom Extruders. For over 50 years we have been providing some of the best custom plastic extrusion products on the market. Manufacturers choose Inplex for various reasons, for example, our vast manufacturing facilities and wide range of plastic materials enabled us to get the job done according to our client’s satisfaction.
Inplex has developed a reputation for providing high-quality extrusion plastic products, that are used to create safe and durable outdoor structures. This has allowed us to expand into many different markets and industries, and become the first choice to many top brands looking for plastic components for outdoor use.
Inplex is often chosen to create custom plastic components for pergolas and other outdoor product designs with custom component requirements. We can manufacture a variety of plastic components for outdoor use to your exact specifications. For more information on examples of past outdoor plastic components Inplex has made, and why top brands choose to work with Inplex to create outdoor products check out our recent informational blog.
This will provide more insight into why your organization should work with Inplex custom extruders to produce your desired outdoor plastic component.
Inplex can be your trusted custom extruder for outdoor plastic components. We will manufacture outdoor product components designed to meet your exact specifications. A handful of certifications and rigorous quality inspections will ensure top-quality outdoor plastic components every time.
Inplex has over five decades of rich experience delivering custom-designed plastic extrusion components for outdoor use. Whether you choose ABS, HDPE, or polycarbonate, Inplex can fulfill your order.
Plastic material for outdoor application must be chosen with care. If you need help identifying the most suitable plastic, speak to a specialist and submit a request for your next outdoor project today.
Back to BlogAs a pioneering force in plastic manufacturing, our injection molding company understands that selecting the right plastic for outdoor use is far from a one-size-fits-all endeavor. Whether you're envisioning durable outdoor furniture, resilient garden equipment, or robust automotive components, the choice of plastic can make or break the longevity and performance of your creations.
Join our experts in pressure forming plastic from Advanced Plastiform Inc. as we explore the best plastic for outdoor use.
When it comes to the best plastic for outdoor use, selecting the right material is paramount to ensuring your projects can withstand the challenges posed by Mother Nature. Here are some common outdoor plastic options that have proven to resist threats from outdoor elements.
Widely recognized for its versatility, Polyethylene is a go-to choice for outdoor applications. Its exceptional toughness and resistance to impact make it an excellent option for products that might experience heavy use or accidental bumps. Whether you're crafting storage containers, pipes, or outdoor toys, PE's lightweight nature and inherent durability can weather the elements.
Known for its superior mechanical properties, Polypropylene boasts impressive strength, rigidity, and resistance to chemical agents. PP's ability to handle temperature fluctuations makes it suitable for outdoor products exposed to varying weather conditions. Garden furniture, automotive components, and outdoor equipment often benefit from PP's dependable performance.
If transparency and high-impact resistance are paramount, Polycarbonate stands out. PC can endure significant physical stress without shattering, making it ideal for outdoor items like protective covers, greenhouses, and skylights. Moreover, its inherent UV resistance helps maintain its clarity and prevents yellowing over time.
Renowned for its balance of toughness and surface finish, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene finds its place in outdoor applications requiring both durability and aesthetic appeal. It can handle a wide temperature range, making it suitable for items such as automotive trim, outdoor electronics, and even certain sports equipment.
Thermoplastic Olefin is a highly sought-after plastic for outdoor use due to its exceptional combination of durability, UV resistance, and cost-effectiveness. It's commonly used in automotive parts, roofing materials, and outdoor equipment. TPO's inherent resistance to harsh weather conditions, including UV radiation, makes it ideal for products exposed to sunlight and temperature fluctuations. Its versatility, lightweight nature, and ease of processing contribute to its popularity as a robust outdoor plastic.
Acrylic, known for its optical clarity and weather-resistant properties, is a valuable choice for outdoor projects that demand both aesthetics and durability. It's often used for outdoor signage, light fixtures, and decorative items. Acrylic's ability to maintain transparency and resist fading or yellowing due to UV exposure ensures that outdoor installations retain their visual appeal over time. Its high impact resistance and versatility in molding and shaping further enhance its suitability for outdoor use.
When planning a project, choosing the best plastic for outdoor use requires looking for plastic materials whose characteristics align with your specific needs and environmental conditions. Each plastic type has its unique advantages, enabling you to tailor your choice to your project's requirements, and ensuring it remains resilient and reliable throughout its outdoor lifespan.
PE and PP excel in providing robustness and resilience. They can withstand impacts, heavy loads, and harsh conditions, making them prime choices for outdoor products that need to maintain their structural integrity over time.
Polycarbonate, TPO, acrylic, and, to some extent, ABS are known for their excellent UV resistance. This property prevents degradation, color fading, and material breakdown caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight, ensuring that your outdoor creations retain their appearance and strength.
Polypropylene, with its impressive temperature tolerance, remains dimensionally stable even in extreme weather conditions. This makes PP a reliable choice for products that will experience significant temperature fluctuations.
PE, known for its water-resistant properties, is a top performer in wet environments. Its low moisture absorption rate helps prevent swelling, warping, or weakening due to exposure to water, making it a natural fit for outdoor items that will encounter rain, humidity, or dampness.
Plastic for outdoor use has revolutionized a wide array of industries, enabling the creation of durable and functional products that thrive in the great outdoors. Let's explore some prominent applications where these plastics shine.
Polyethylene and polypropylene are frequently used for crafting chairs, tables, loungers, and other furniture due to their excellent resistance to UV radiation and moisture. These plastics retain their strength and color, ensuring your outdoor seating areas remain inviting and comfortable.
From ornamental sculptures to garden planters, outdoor decor relies on plastics like polycarbonate and ABS to bring creative visions to life. These plastics offer a balance between durability and design, allowing intricate shapes and patterns while resisting fading and wear.
Outdoor plastics are widely used for planters and pots due to their lightweight nature and water resistance. Polyethylene's low moisture absorption rate prevents water-related damage, while its durability withstands the rigors of gardening tasks. Garden borders and lawn edging benefit from plastics with exceptional flexibility and weather resistance. Polypropylene is a popular choice for these applications, providing easy installation and long-lasting performance.
Modern automotive industry designs often incorporate plastic for outdoor use for exterior parts like bumpers and trim. ABS, known for its impact resistance and ability to maintain color and texture over time, is frequently used for these components. Plastics like polycarbonate contribute to automotive design by offering lightweight alternatives for grilles, headlight lenses, and panels. Their transparency and UV resistance ensure these components maintain their appearance and functionality despite prolonged exposure to the elements.
Polyethylene's buoyancy and water resistance make it a popular choice for crafting kayaks, canoes, and small boats. Its robustness ensures these vessels remain sturdy, while its low maintenance requirements suit waterborne adventures. ABS and other impact-resistant plastics are integral to outdoor playgrounds, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of children. These plastics can withstand rough play and exposure to the elements, making them ideal for slides, swing seats, and climbing structures.
When it comes to crafting outdoor products that can withstand the test of time and nature, partnering with the right experts is key. Our team at Advanced Plastiform, Inc. is here to guide you through the process of choosing the perfect plastic for your outdoor use. With years of industry expertise and a deep understanding of outdoor conditions, our thermoforming company can help you make informed decisions that lead to durable, reliable, and visually appealing creations. Advanced Plastiform is your answer for custom plastic products manufactured in North Carolina, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Tennessee, Georgia, and Virginia.
Contact us today by calling 919-404-2080 or filling out the contact form to get started.
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