What are service temperatures?

When designing plastic machine parts and components, understanding service temperatures is crucial to selecting the right material. Service temperatures define the temperature range in which a plastic material can be used without losing its mechanical properties.

This includes both maximum and minimum temperatures, and your choice of plastic type will depend on the specific application for which the material will be used.

Long term temperatur effects on technical plastics.

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What do service temperatures mean?

Service temperatures refers to the temperature range in which a material remains functional and stable. If the core temperature exceeds the specified maximum for a long period of time, the plastic may begin to deform, lose strength or become brittle.

On the other hand, if the material is used at temperatures lower than recommended, it may become brittle and crystallise, increasing the risk of breakage.

CNC turning is one of Induflex' favourite processing methods.

How does temperature affect plastic?

Temperature can affect the mechanical properties and dimensional stability of plastics. Many types of plastic will expand at higher temperatures and shrink at lower temperatures.

To avoid problems such as cracks or deformation, it is important to choose plastic materials that are designed to withstand temperature influences.

High and low

temperatures

When it comes to technical plastics and high temperatures, PEHD, Polymid (nylon) and PET-P are particularly good types of plastic, with PEHD able to withstand temperatures of up to 200 degrees. More extreme temperatures over longer periods require high-perfomance plastics such as PTFE and PEEK, which can withstand temperatures of up to 250 degrees.

When it comes to low temperatures, PEHD and POM are both good technical plastics. Again, if your components are used in more extreme environments, PTFE is the right choice.

Tolerances and temperatures

Tolerances are also important to consider when working with plastics at extreme temperatures. Tolerances refer to the permissable variations in measurements and dimensions of plastic components.

At high temperatures, materials can expand, while at low temperatures they can shrink. Choosing a material with thermal expansion, also called the coefficient of expansion, is therefore important to ensure the precision of the final components.

A black turned machine part of plastics is being measured with a vernier caliper.

Selections of plastics with a focus on temperatures

When choosing a plastic type for a specific application, it is important to understand the temperature requirements the material will be exposed to.

If you are working with machine parts that are exposed to high or low temperatures over extended periods, consider your requirements.

High-performance plastics are more expensive, so sometimes technical plastics may be sufficient for the task.

Want our advice?

Choosing the right material with the right properties is essential to ensure the durability and functionality of your components. Contact our specialists so we can help you by looking at the bigger picture of your needs.