Plastic's Grip: Exploring Why We Can't Do Without It
2025-10-16
The use of plastic in our lives
You may not have noticed, but plastic products have long permeated every aspect of our lives and production.
Many people only see the negative news about plastic, overlooking its immense contribution to the progress of human society. Just imagine: without plastic, many industries would be dramatically different. Plastics make cars lighter, thereby improving fuel efficiency (or the range of electric vehicles). Disposable syringes, IV bags, precision surgical tools, and more all rely on the hygienic and easy-to-process properties of plastics. The casings, insulation, and precision internal structures of mobile phones, computers, and household appliances are all made possible by high-performance plastics.
Plastic materials and applications
| Product Type | Material Options |
|---|---|
| Industrial Plastic Parts | PP、PE、ABS、PC、PA6、PA66、POM、PTFE |
| Appliance Plastic Components | ABS、PC/ABS、HIPS |
| Automotive Plastic Parts | PA66 + Glass Fiber、PP + Glass Fiber、PBT |
| Electronic Plastic Components | PC、POM、PTFE |
Characteristics of plastic products
Plastic Properties
Lightweight and Durable
Plastic is significantly lighter than metal. For example, a plastic machine housing weighs only one-third of a metal one. This significantly reduces shipping and labor costs, both for internal factory handling and export. Plastic is also shatterproof and rust-resistant. For example, plastic parts in home appliances can last for ten or eight years without breaking down.
Controllable Costs, High Cost-Effectiveness
Compared to metal materials like copper and aluminum, plastic raw material costs are lower and processing is easier, making it particularly suitable for mass production. For example, using plastic for automotive wiring harness fixtures can reduce unit costs by over 40% compared to metal, without sacrificing performance. This is crucial for companies needing to control costs.
Highly malleable
Plastics can be formed into a variety of complex shapes through processes like injection molding and CNC machining. These include plastic gears with tiny holes and curved appliance panels. These are difficult or expensive to create with metal, but plastics can easily achieve this.
Insulation and corrosion resistance
In the electrical industry, plastics are essential for safety or special needs. For example, wire sheaths and socket housings require plastics for safety.
