Plastic engineering can be demanding. With an expanding range of polymers, projects sometimes fall short. Yet the fields history and emerging technologies—3D‑printed prosthetics, bio‑degradable plastics—offer endless inspiration. Here are 30 powerful quotes to keep you motivated, regardless of setba

Looking to purchase plastic fasteners? With dozens of manufacturers available, it can be hard to know what to ask and what to expect. Our 7‑step checklist will help you capture every critical detail, from material choice to lead time, ensuring you get the best value and quality. Many customers star

In earlier articles we explored the role of plastics in semiconductor, aerospace, marine, and urban planning sectors. This article examines how the construction industry harnesses plastic materials—and why they’re becoming indispensable. Construction firms are increasingly adopting plastic hardware—

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) was founded in 1919 as a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting voluntary U.S. standards and ensuring conformity across industries. Standardization first gained traction during the Industrial Revolution, enabling interchangeable parts

Today, the majority of consumers recognize the importance of plastic recycling. While Craftech’s high‑standard plastic fasteners represent a minuscule share of global plastic production, everyday items—household appliances, bags, and packaging—account for the bulk. Recycling remains the most effecti

Fiber‑reinforced plastic (FRP) is rapidly establishing itself as a premier substitute for steel in sectors demanding high strength, low weight, and corrosion resistance. The U.S. market is projected to consume 4.3 billion pounds of FRP in 2017 (U.S. Department of Energy, 2017), underscoring its grow

A mechanical bearing is a precision component that enables smooth rotational or linear motion between two parts, cutting friction and boosting energy efficiency. From household appliances to high‑speed machinery, bearings are everywhere. Whether metal or plastic, they rely on the principle that rol

Plastic fasteners may be small, yet they are ubiquitous across modern infrastructure. In the sporting world, their presence is invisible but essential—from the fabrics that keep athletes moving to the safety gear that protects them. The Super Bowl, the pinnacle of American football, would be unthink

Did you know that some Canadian urban bees are now building their nests with plastic? This surprising discovery highlights how even wildlife can adapt to human-made materials. While plastic’s environmental footprint is often debated, recent research from the University of Guelph shows that bees are

For professionals and newcomers alike, the terminology of plastic manufacturing can seem daunting. Plastics are prized for their versatility, but their diverse properties—often varying even within a single grade—require precise language. From marine and aerospace applications to automotive and semi

While exploring 3D printing’s impact, I discovered several heart‑warming stories that showcase the technology’s transformative power. Below are three standout examples that illustrate how 3D printing can change lives. Buttercup the Duck Buttercup, a duck born with a deformed foot that made walking

I’m always amazed by the cutting‑edge plastic engineering stories that surface on Twitter each week. The breadth of applications—from lifesaving devices to everyday convenience—highlights the versatility and potential of modern polymers. Below are my top three plastic engineering highlights from thi

During the Global Plastics Summit, Kim Holmes, Director of Recycling and Conversion at SPI, highlighted that plastic manufacturing faces a public‑relations challenge. Visible plastic waste in parks and oceans erodes consumer confidence in the material. Holmes advocates a “supply‑chain approach” to

As a seasoned professional in the plastics sector, I’ve often been asked, “What is plastic?” The answer isn’t as straightforward as it seems, and the best responses come from a mix of historical context, chemistry, and industry practice. While I usually write about specific engineering materials—G10

Can plastic fasteners withstand harsh winter conditions? While many of Craftech’s fasteners spend their entire service life indoors, a significant portion is routinely exposed to the elements. Craftech’s high‑performance plastic fasteners are critical components in automobiles, marine vessels, aircr

Why choose Vespel®? It is one of the most versatile engineering plastics available. When cost is secondary and performance is paramount—especially in harsh or vacuum environments—Vespel® offers unmatched strength, chemical resistance, and low friction. Vespel® is a registered trademark of DuPont® an

FRP stands for fiber-reinforced plastic or fiber-reinforced polymer.  FRP is comprised of a designated polymer that has been reinforced with fibers.  Fiber compositions are typically glass, carbon, or aramid based while the polymer is usually an epoxy, vinyl ester, or polyester th

When selecting a fastener material, it’s essential to consider not just strength and cost, but also chemical resistance. Nylon, particularly nylon 6/6, remains a top choice for many applications due to its affordability, widespread availability, and robust mechanical properties. However, its perform

From design prototypes to life‑saving prosthetics, 3D printing is redefining what we can manufacture. 3D printers now create everything from sand molds to titanium dental implants and turbine blades. The duck depicted above—Buttercup—was born with a severely deformed foot that prevented her from

Are you looking for a group of exceptionally chemical resistant plastics?  Check out fluoropolymers.  These fluorocarbon-based plastics are composed of multiple strong carbon-fluorine bonds.  This carbon-fluorine bond, called ‘C-F’ for short, is one of the strongest single bo