4/23/2021 Thermosets vs Thermoplastics | AIP Precision Machining | Daytona, FL

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Thermosets vs Thermoplastics

JANUARY 12, 2018

Your Brief Guide to Polymer Materials

When it comes to polymers, you have two basic types: thermoplastics and thermosets. When

machining plastic, it’s crucial to know which one you’re working with due to distinct differences

between how these two main polymer categories react to chemicals and temperature.

Thermoplastics soften when heated and become more uid as additional heat is applied. The

curing process is completely reversible as no chemical bonding takes place. This characteristic

allows thermoplastics to be remolded and recycled without negatively affecting the material’s

physical properties.

Thermoplastics possess the following properties:

• Good Resistance to Creep
• Soluble in Certain Solvents
• Swell in Presence of Certain Solvents
• Allows for Plastic Deformation when Heated

Thermosets contain polymers that cross-link together during the curing process to form an

irreversible chemical bond. The cross-linking process eliminates the risk of the product re-

melting when heat is applied, making thermosets ideal for high-heat applications such as

electronics and appliances.

Thermosets possess the following properties:

• High Resistance to Creep
• Cannot Melt
• Insoluble
• Rarely Swell in Presence of Solvents

Phenolic, Bakelite, Vinyl Ester and Epoxy materials would be considered examples of a

thermoset, while ULTEM, PEEK, TORLON and Polycarbonate materials are examples of

thermoplastics.

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4/23/2021 Thermosets vs Thermoplastics | AIP Precision Machining | Daytona, FL

The thermoplastic category of polymers is further categorized into Amorphous and Crystalline

polymers per the gure below:

Most amorphous polymers are thermoform capable, translucent and easily bonded with

adhesives or solvents. One example of this would be TORLON.

Semi-crystalline polymers are dif cult to bond or thermoform, but possess better chemical

resistances, electrical properties and a low coef cient of ction. An example of a semi-crystalline

polymer would be PEEK.

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Posted in Plastic Machining, Plastic Manufacturing Company, Thermoplastic MaterialsTagged Materials,

Precision Machining, Thermoplastics, Thermosets

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