The (plastic) alternative in difficult times

Currently, it is a challenging time for many industries, including the plastics industry. The dire market situation is putting pressure on the availability and prices of plastics. Continuity in quality and availability is becoming an increasingly important concept in the manufacture of products. This creates tensions and challenges for producers, distributors and the processing industry. With this article, we give you an insight into the advantages and possibilities of an alternative plastic to PA6 and PA66.

Whether the choice is based on organizational and/or logistical reasons, we often hear from the market that choices for a plastic raw material are made out of habit or convenience. After all, the company has experience with a plastic or a fixed flow of goods. What if it can be done differently? This might give you advantages in terms of weight and quality? There are successful examples in the industry that underline the switch to an alternative. For PA6 or PA66, Polypropylene (PP) compounds offer a suitable solution, provided the temperature does not exceed 100˚C. Also, glass fibre filled PBT compounds are a very suitable alternative to PA66.

Proven success

Take the example of a washing machine. Behind the metal drum in a washing machine is a plastic drum. This drum is "hung" on one side and weighted down by clothing and water (very considerable weight). The maximum "user temperature" is 90˚C. The drums within a washing machine are also subject to detergents and fabric softeners. The PP glass fibre reinforced compound has been used in this industry for many years and has proven to be a successful alternative. Due to the proportion of short or long glass fibre, the processor is able to approach the strength and impact resistance with a lower density. There are more examples of plastic compounds that approach or even exceed the values of PA6 and PA66. 

Your helping hand

Do you have applications where you currently use polyamide and are interested in the possibilities of an alternative? With our years of experience, technical knowledge and top-class network, we are able to help you and guarantee success. We will help you find and implement the best alternative. 

Don't wait any longer, start investigating! Feel free to contact De Monchy's plastics specialist Albert Jan.