Plastic materials have become an integral part of our daily lives, being used in a wide range of applications, from packaging and construction to automotive and electronics. One essential property to consider when working with plastics is their melting temperature. Knowing the temperature at which a plastic material melts helps determine its processing capabilities and suitability for specific applications. In this article, EuroPlas will delve into the melting temperature ranges of various plastic materials commonly used across industries.
Read more: What is plastic? Everything you need to know about plastic
1. What is the melting point of plastic?
The melting point of plastic is the temperature at which a solid plastic material transitions from its solid state to a liquid state. At this temperature, the intermolecular forces holding the plastic's polymer chains together weaken, allowing them to move more freely. As a result, the plastic softens and eventually turns into a liquid form.
Plastic after reaching the melting point
The specific melting point can vary depending on the type and composition of the plastic material. Different types of plastic have different chemical structures and properties, leading to varying melting points. For example, some plastics have relatively low melting points, average around 70°C (158°F), while others have higher melting points, reaching temperatures of over 200°C (392°F).
Some plastics have low melting points, such as polyethylene (PE), which typically melts around 105°C to 135°C (221°F to 275°F). Others have higher melting points, like polycarbonate (PC), which typically melts around 220°C to 250°C (428°F to 482°F). The specific melting point also depends on factors such as molecular weight, crystallinity, and additives present in the plastic.
The melting point of plastic helps determine the temperature at which plastic can be processed, shaped, and molded. By heating the plastic to or above its melting point, manufacturers can utilize techniques like injection molding, extrusion, or blow molding to form the plastic into desired shapes products.
Moreover, the melting point is essential for ensuring the stability and performance of plastic products. Exceeding the melting point can result in degradation, deformation, and loss of desired physical properties. On the other hand, if the plastic is not heated enough to reach its melting point during processing, it may not have sufficient flowability for molding or shaping.
In conclusion, the melting point of plastic is a critical factor to consider when working with plastic materials. It allows for proper handling, processing, and utilization of plastics in various industries, ranging from packaging, construction to automotive and electronics.
2. Why is the melting temperature of plastic so important?
The melting temperature of plastic is extremely important due to its influence on various aspects of plastic materials in manufacturing and processing. Understanding the melting temperature is relevant in determining suitable methods for shaping and molding plastic, such as injection molding, extrusion, and blow molding. It is also crucial in preventing degradation, deformation, and undesirable changes in the plastic's properties that can occur when the melting temperature is exceeded.
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Plastic deformed after exceeding temperature range
In manufacturing and processing, the melting temperature of plastic is a key factor in selecting the appropriate techniques. Different plastics have distinct melting points and heating them to the specific melting temperature enables the plastic to transition from a solid to a molten state, allowing for shaping and molding.
For example, injection molding involves injecting molten plastic into a mold cavity, while extrusion forces molten plastic through a die to create continuous shapes. Understanding the melting temperature helps ensure the plastic reaches the necessary state for these processes to be successful.
Exceeding the melting temperature can lead to several negative consequences:
- Firstly, it can cause degradation of the plastic material. The high heat can break molecular bonds within the plastic's polymer chains, resulting in a decrease in strength, loss of desired properties, and the generation of unwanted by-products.
- Secondly, exceeding the melting temperature can lead to deformation. The plastic may warp, distort, or lose its shape during processing, resulting in products that do not meet the desired specifications. Additionally, exceeding the melting temperature can cause undesirable changes in the plastic's properties, such as changes in density, viscosity, or chemical reactivity, which can compromise the performance and quality of the final product.
By controlling and adhering to the recommended melting temperature range, manufacturers can prevent these issues and ensure the stability and quality of the plastic products. The melting temperature acts as a guide for achieving the desired properties, dimensional accuracy, and structural integrity during the manufacturing and processing of plastic materials.
In summary, the melting temperature of plastic is crucial in different situations, including manufacturing and processing. Understanding and controlling the melting temperature are essential in determining the suitable methods for shaping and molding plastic as well as ensuring the overall quality and performance of plastic materials.
3. What is the temperature ranges for different plastic materials?
As mentioned before, we all know that different types of plastic materials have different chemical structures and mechanical properties, consequently resulting in different ideal temperature ranges or melting points.
Some of the questions that EuroPlas receive the most are “What is the melting point of PVC plastic?”, “What is the temperature range of ABS plastic?” or “What is the maximum temperature that PS plastic can withstand?”. In the following part, EuroPlas would like to provide a detailed information sheet including temperature ranges, melting points as well as basic features and applications of some popular plastic materials in the current market.
| |
Temperature Range |
Melting Point |
Characteristics |
| Polyethelene (PE) |
-50°C to 80°C |
105°C to 115°C |
Flexible, durable, chemical resistant |
| Polypropylene (PP) |
0°C to 120°C |
130°C to 171°C
|
High resistance to heat, chemical resistance, lightweight
|
| Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) |
-10°C to 60°C
|
100°C to 260°C (depends on the type)
|
Flame resistance, electrical insulation, rigid or flexible depending on additives.
|
| Polystyrene (PS) |
-20°C to 70°C |
210°C to 240°C
|
Transparent or opaque, lightweight, easily molded.
|
| Polyethelene Terephthalate (PET) |
-40°C to 70°C
|
250°C to 260°C
|
Transparent, highly durable
|
| Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) |
-20°C to 80°C
|
210°C to 270°C
|
Excellent impact resistance, rigid and tough, easily molded.
|
| Polycarbonate (PC) |
-135°C to 135°C |
220°C to 230°C |
Light, durable, good light transmission, easily molded.
|
3.1. Temperature ranges of Polyethylene (PE)
Polyethylene (PE) comes in different types, primarily Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) and High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), and each has its own temperature range.
Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE):
- Melting Point: 105°C to 115°C (221°F to 239°F)
- Maximum Service Temperature: Approximately 80°C (176°F)
- Brittle Temperature: Around -110°C (-166°F)
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE):
- Melting Point: 120°C to 130°C (248°F to 266°F)
- Maximum Service Temperature: Approximately 120°C (248°F)
- Brittle Temperature: Around -100°C (-148°F)
3.2. Temperature ranges of Polypropylene (PP)
Polypropylene (PP) is a versatile thermoplastic with specific temperature characteristics that make it suitable for various applications.
- Melting Point: 130°C to 171°C (266°F to 340°F)
- Maximum Service Temperature: Approximately 100°C to 120°C (212°F to 248°F)
- Brittle Temperature: Below 0°C to -20°C (32°F to -4°F)
3.3. What is the temperature range of PVC plastic?
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is a versatile plastic with a range of temperature characteristics that vary depending on its formulation (rigid or flexible PVC).
Rigid PVC (uPVC):
- Glass Transition Temperature: 80°C to 85°C (176°F to 185°F)
- Maximum Service Temperature: Approximately 60°C to 70°C (140°F to 158°F)
- Minimum Service Temperature: Down to -15°C to -20°C (5°F to -4°F)
Flexible PVC:
- Maximum Service Temperature: Approximately 60°C to 70°C (140°F to 158°F)
- Minimum Service Temperature: Down to -30°C (-22°F) or lower, depending on the plasticizers used.
4. About EuroPlas
After 17 years of establishment, EuroPlas is proud to be one of the most reputable and trustworthy material suppliers worldwide. We are a provider of optimal material solutions with a series of high quality plastic lines. Our solutions meet the diverse needs of the world's industries, not only in terms of high standards and reliability but also in terms of environmental obligations.
Our products including:
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Bioplastic Compound
BioNext is a unique bioplastic exclusively developed by EuroPlas based on biodegradable base resins combined with renewable natural materials and compatible additives. This product not only meets the required mechanical performance standards but has also been optimized for effective environmental protection.
For more information about BioNeXT, please click this link: Bioplastic compound
Color masterbatch
Color masterbatch is a popular coloring method capable of creating uniform color effects for plastic products. At EuroPlas, we provide an extensive selection of color masterbatch products available in an array of vibrant colors. These products can also be tailored to meet the specific requirements of individual customers.
For more information about color masterbatch, please click this link: Color masterbatch
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Plastic additives
During the processing and utilization of plastic, it is frequently exposed to risks posed by the external environment and the plastic material itself. To address this issue, EuroPlas has devised a collection of 11 essential additives. These additives encompass various features such as UV protection, resistance to aging, flame retardancy, antistatic properties, and more. Implementing these additives not only enhances manufacturing efficiency but also elevates the overall quality of the end product.
For more information about plastic additives, please click this link: Plastic additives
Engineering plastic compound
EuroPlas has developed tailor-made engineering plastic compounds that cater to diverse industries, particularly those demanding advanced technical knowledge, such as automotive, motorcycle, household electrical appliances, electrical engineering, art, electronic components, and office equipment. Created with a meticulous formulation, EuroPlas' products encompass key features including chemical resistance, impact resistance, wear resistance, and convenient structural adjustment. Consequently, EuroPlas guarantees that their plastic products consistently fulfill the stringent technical specifications set by their customers.
For more information about engineering plastic compound, please click this link: Engineering plastic compound
Filler masterbatch
The Filler Masterbatch of EuroPlas is a combination of PE, PP or HIPS resin, calcium carbonate (CaCO3), wax, oil and other additives. The utilization of Filler Masterbatch enables customers to reduce production costs, increase the mechanical properties and dimensional stability of plastic materials, and at the same time achieve the goal of reducing weight. This profit optimization process can be done without affecting the quality of the final product.
For more information about filler masterbatch, please click this link: Filler masterbatch
Bio filler
The eco-friendly EuroPlas bio filler products are derived from sustainable sources, offering a viable solution to enhance the characteristics of plastic materials. With the incorporation of bio filler, there is a notable enhancement in tensile strength, impact resistance, and stiffness, enabling manufacturers to produce sustainable products without compromising on performance or functionality.
For more information about bio filler, please click this link: Bio filler
At EuroPlas, we place great importance on delivering exceptional plastic products that are created with meticulous attention to detail and precise craftsmanship. Our team consists of dedicated professionals with high levels of expertise, committed to providing excellent customer service to guarantee your complete satisfaction.
Contact us today to discover our wide range of products and find the ideal plastic solution that is customized to meet your specific requirements.
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