PS or Polystyrene is a thermoplastic polymer. It is water repellent and is used for applications including the manufacture of disposable cutlery, cups and fast food trays. It is also possible to use PS for the injection moulding of plastic products. PS is characterised by its high-gloss surface and its sensitivity to solvents.
PS injection moulding
Some of the advantages of producing products, shaped components and housings using PS injection moulding are listed below:
- High rigidity
- High-gloss surface
- Structural stability
- Easy processability
- High transparency
- Hard, smooth surface
- Suitable for mass production
In general, PS is a very brittle material. Above 80 °C, PS becomes soft and pliable. This is why one or more additives are often added to PS.
Additives
Additives can be added to PS to obtain high impact resistance, good tensile strength, UV resistance and/or fire retardant properties. This occurs during the injection moulding process. For example, ABS or ASA can be added to improve its material properties. Would you like to know more about PS and the additives that can be used? Ask your question and click on the button below to contact one of our engineers directly.
Where is PS used?
PS is used for products where a high-gloss surface is desired, for mass production and to achieve cost savings. A number of examples are listed below.
- Dashboards
- Components for machinery
- Housings for electrical appliances and electronic devices
- Computer housings
- Displays
- Household utensils
- Light boxes for interior use
- Vacuum formed products
Finishing and assembly
PS is easy to weld, print on or paint and it can be bonded with adhesive. You can find more information about the finishing and assembly of injection-moulded plastic products at HSV Technical Moulded Parts on the assembly page.
What does PS injection moulding cost?
Would you like to have the costs of PS injection moulding your plastic product, shaped component or housing calculated? Request the HSV-TMP Plastic QuickScan. Our engineers will assess the feasibility of your product design, and you will receive advice and an initial estimate of the costs.
PS easily recyclable
PS is a styrene monomer and is easy to recycle. After recycling, this raw material can be reused in the production process. The use of sustainable plastics fits with our organisation’s environmental vision. Read more about HSV-TMP’s sustainable initiatives and the environment.
Injection moulding of large plastic products
HSV Technical Moulded Parts specialises in injection moulding of large plastic products. Many thermoplastics are available, including PS (Polystyrene). To determine which thermoplastic is most appropriate for the realisation of your plastic product, you can request the Plastic QuickScan. You will then receive advice without any obligations.
More about plastics:
