What are common materials used in injection molding?

Injection molding supports a wide range of thermoplastics, engineering polymers, and elastomers, each chosen based on mechanical strength, heat resistance, chemical stability, and cost. Below are the most commonly used materials in injection molding across industrial sectors such as automotive, medical, consumer electronics, and aerospace.

Common Thermoplastics Used in Injection Molding

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)

• Properties: High impact resistance, toughness, and dimensional stability

• Applications: Automotive trim, enclosures, consumer electronics

• Learn more: ABS Injection Molding

Polycarbonate (PC)

• Properties: Optical clarity, high toughness, good thermal resistance

• Applications: Lighting lenses, safety helmets, medical housings

• Learn more: PC Injection Molding

Nylon (Polyamide, PA)

• Properties: High mechanical strength, abrasion resistance, chemical durability

• Applications: Gears, bushings, connectors

• Learn more: Nylon Injection Molding

Polypropylene (PP)

• Properties: Lightweight, flexible, excellent fatigue and chemical resistance

• Applications: Packaging, living hinges, automotive interior parts

• Learn more: PP Injection Molding

POM (Acetal/Delrin)

• Properties: Low friction, high stiffness, excellent dimensional stability

• Applications: Precision gears, fasteners, industrial machinery components

• Learn more: POM Injection Molding

Polyethylene (HDPE, LDPE)

• Properties: Good chemical resistance, flexibility (LDPE), strength (HDPE)

• Applications: Containers, tubing, medical packaging

• Learn more: HDPE Injection Molding

Advanced Engineering Plastics and Elastomers

TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)

• Properties: Flexible, wear-resistant, good tensile strength

• Applications: Gaskets, phone cases, medical devices

• Learn more: TPU Injection Molding

PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone)

• Properties: Excellent thermal stability, chemical resistance, high mechanical strength

• Applications: Aerospace, automotive engine parts, surgical implants

• Learn more: PEEK Injection Molding

LCP (Liquid Crystal Polymer)

• Properties: High-temperature resistance, minimal thermal expansion

• Applications: Precision connectors, electronics components

• Learn more: LCP Injection Molding

PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate)

• Properties: Electrical insulation, heat resistance, dimensional stability

• Applications: Automotive sensors, electrical housings

• Learn more: PBT Injection Molding

Choosing the Right Material with Expert Support

Selecting the appropriate injection molding material depends on your application’s mechanical, thermal, and regulatory requirements. For optimal performance and manufacturability, Neway Precision provides complete consultative design services and rapid production through services like CNC machining prototyping and 3D printing. Whether you need fast prototyping or volume production, we ensure the right material and process for your custom parts.