Why Plastic Is Used in Fluid Handling Equipment

Resistance to corrosion and abrasion – Unlike many metals, industrial plastics can withstand water, chemicals, and other fluids passing through and over them without additional coatings and without corroding or breaking down. The result is that plastic fluid handling components have longer service lives than metal parts with minimal wear and tear and, as a result, little required maintenance.

Flame retardant – Certain plastics have high levels of flame and heat resistance, meaning they can perform well and maintain their shape even at very high temperatures. In addition, they provide excellent insulation, so they retain the heat of hot fluids passing around them.

Hygienic properties – Plastic fluid handling components can be sterilized and sanitized easily with highly abrasive chemicals and do not break down or corrode. This capability is extremely important for plastic pump components that need to store or transport extremely pure liquids.

Plastic doesn’t leach – Like its hygienic properties, plastics similarly do not contain any impurities that may leach into the liquids flowing through or over them. Plastic components also will not absorb any impurities that may be present in the liquid.

Plastic components are cost effective – Fluid handling equipment often requires unique shapes and extremely tight tolerances. Using injection molding, 3D printing, and secondary machining and grinding, plastic fluid handling parts can be engineered into almost any shape. To have the same customization and precision with metal components would be much more expensive. With plastic, it’s also relatively easy to create repeat and replacement parts, reducing required expenditures for production and maintenance.

At Aztec Plastic, we use a wide variety of thermoplastics and plastic resins to help you design, engineer, and produce fluid handling equipment components that meet your exact specifications. If you’re considering plastic for your product, our team can help you decide.