Reaction Injection Molding (RIM) is a manufacturing process typically used to manufacture large, complex geometries. Unlike injection molding, RIM uses thermoset materials and never thermoplastics. For this reason, polyurethane solids and foams are most commonly associated with RIM. In this post, w

While polypropylene and polyurethanes may look and feel the same, both materials offer different physical properties and manufacturing processes. In this post, we will discuss these differences and when to choose the best material for your product design.  What is Polypropylene? Polypropylene

Tensile strength is a key physical property often specified with elastomeric materials, including thermoset polyurethanes. This versatile material provides engineers the flexibility to customize a wide range of tensile strength properties based on design specifications. In this post, we will furthe

What are Elastomeric Polyurethanes? Elastomeric polyurethanes are derived from a chemical reaction between a polyol and isocyanate, making this a true thermoset polymer. Commonly associated with Reaction Injection Molding (RIM), elastomeric polyurethanes offer designers the ability to produce a wid

The world of plastics include materials made up of a wide variety of chemical compositions and characteristics, providing product designers numerous options to choose from. Depending on your design specifications, you may find some materials may be better suited due to their physical properties and

Whether you are working through a prototype build or experience frequent mechanical failures from existing machines, something must be done in order to prevent future breakdowns. In this post, we will explore common mechanical failures, ways you can improve your application’s performance with therm

During the product development process when intricate geometries are required, designers tend to consider injection molding. While this process may be one of the most known methods for molded parts, this is certainly not the only efficient solution. Instead, reaction injection molding (RIM) provide

There are several types of surface finishes to choose from when designing custom molded products. Your design requirements will often dictate the appropriate process to achieve your desired look, feel, and texture. In this post, we will uncover the various types of surface finishes available and ke

When it comes to custom molded products and components, there are several manufacturing processes to choose from. Whether it is between thermoforming or reaction injection molding (RIM), each process has its own set of benefits to improve your design idea. So, which process is right for you? In thi

Typically, injection molded ABS is a commonly referred to material that is often found in a variety of applications. However, have you recently stop to think if theres anything comparable that can offer improved physical properties and lower tooling costs? In this post, we will compare the differen

Hardness is one of many key physical properties to consider while designing with polyurethanes. Unlike metals, rubbers, and plastics – polyurethanes can be custom formulated to offer an extensive hardness range with varying characteristics.  In this post, we will explore what hardness is and h

Coefficient of Friction (CoF) is found everywhere, from the bottom of your shoes to the wheels on your car! This unseen yet critical property can determine the type of movement between two contacting surfaces. In this post, we will discuss the importance of Coefficient of Fricition when designing p

This may come to you as a shock, no pun intended, but polyurethanes can easily be customized to eliminate mechanical breakdowns that are caused by static buildup. In this post, we will discuss Electrostatic Discharge (ESD), the risks involved, and how to prevent these risks from ruining your produ

Polyurethane foams can be found everywhere, from spray foam insulation down to your favorite electronic devices. In particular, thermoset polyurethane foams can be customized into any shape, product, or component with an endless array of specifiable physical properties. Depending on the preferred c

Is there anything that is considered safe nowadays?  With an increasing concern around toxins in plastics, product designers often question if thermoset polyurethane foam is considered a safe material for consumer and environmental use. In this post, we will explore the toxicity of thermoset p

When you typically think of Reaction Injection Molding (RIM), what is the first product that comes to mind? If you said automotive bumpers - you must still be stuck in the 70s. Nowadays, RIM has evolved into bigger and better things offering designers a range of physical properties and molding capa

The short answer is yes, to a certain degree. There are several factors that make some polyurethanes more absorbent than others. Depending on the physical properties and material, thermoset polyurethanes can practically have zero water absorption compared to other known materials. In this post, we

In general, thermoset polyurethanes portray improved resistance to various chemicals when compared to most metals, plastics, and rubbers. In this post, we will break down chemical resistance, how it is tested, and how it can play a role in your products design.  What Is Chemical Resistance Ch

Polyurethanes come in many forms, including polyester and polyether. These versatile materials can be formulated to offer a wide range of physical properties, making thermoset polyurethanes a great option for many applications. Choosing the right type of polyurethane starts with understanding how t

Craving something salty or sweet? Think of thermoplastics as chocolate kisses – this small chocolate rain-drop, wrapped in aluminum foil is often found melted where you least expect it. Does this mean the chocolate is no longer edible? No, of course not! Chocolate, just like thermoplastic