What general-application plastic materials does Specs Polymer supply?Specs Polymer supplies transparent and non-transparent plastic materials for fabrication, displays, packaging, machine protection and industrial components. The range includes polycarbonate, acrylic, clear PVC, PS, PET-G, A-PET, modified styrene, PP, PE, POM, nylon, PVC Grey, PVDF, PEEK and PTFE. Availability depends on the required grade, thickness, size, colour and material form.

What is the difference between transparent and non-transparent plastics?
Transparent plastics are generally selected when visibility, light transmission or product presentation is important. Non-transparent plastics are commonly chosen for mechanical strength, chemical resistance, wear resistance, insulation, low friction or precision machining. The correct material should be selected according to its operating conditions rather than appearance alone.

Which transparent plastic has the best optical clarity?
Acrylic is widely selected for excellent optical clarity and surface appearance. Polycarbonate also provides excellent clarity while offering significantly higher impact resistance. PET-G is another clear material commonly selected for forming and fabrication. The best choice depends on the required appearance, impact strength, weather exposure and fabrication process.

Should I choose polycarbonate or acrylic?
Choose polycarbonate when impact resistance, toughness and safety are the main priorities. Choose acrylic when superior visual appearance, surface clarity and weatherability are more important. Polycarbonate is commonly used for machine guards and protective glazing, while acrylic is frequently used for displays, showcases and signage.

What are PET-G and A-PET used for?
PET-G is a clear plastic with good impact performance and forming characteristics, making it suitable for displays, guards, formed covers and fabricated components. A-PET is commonly used for clear packaging, trays, protective covers and thermoformed products. The exact grade should be selected according to the forming method and application.

Which plastic is suitable for chemical-resistant applications?
PP, PE, PVC Grey, PVDF, PEEK and PTFE may be considered for chemical-resistant applications. The correct choice depends on the specific chemical, concentration, operating temperature, exposure duration and mechanical load. Chemical compatibility must be checked against the technical data for the exact material grade.

Which plastic is suitable for gears, rollers and bushes?
POM and nylon are commonly used for gears, rollers, bushes, bearings and other moving components. POM offers good dimensional stability and machinability, while nylon provides good toughness and wear resistance. PTFE or specialised grades may be considered when lower friction or additional chemical resistance is required.

What is the difference between PP and PE?
Polypropylene, or PP, offers useful chemical resistance and greater rigidity for tanks, trays, partitions and fabricated components. Polyethylene, or PE, is known for toughness, moisture resistance and impact performance. It is frequently used for liners, cutting surfaces, guides and wear components. Performance varies according to the exact grade.