Cut-to-size plastics are available in a wide variety of different specifications and plastic types. It is therefore important that you consider several factors before placing your order for plastic that will be used for your DIY project. This article discusses some of those key factors.

Temperature Range

Each form of plastic has a safe temperature range within which it can be used without suffering any alteration to its chemical composition and structural strength. For instance, the maximum operating temperature that nylon sheets can withstand is about 220°F. This is much higher than the safe operating temperature of Acetal that is just 180°F. You should therefore determine the maximum temperature of the application to which you want to put that cut-to-size plastic before you choose a type to order. It may also be advisable to select a type whose safe operating temperature is higher than your application so that the material will withstand any unforeseen events, such as a temperature spike caused by malfunctioning equipment as you work with the plastic.

Colour

Cut-to-size plastic materials are available in a wide range of colours. However, not every colour is suitable for every application. For instance, clear plastic may not be the right choice if you would like to create some privacy for the office that you have created at home. In such a case, tinted or frosted plastic may be a better choice. Similarly, you may need colour-coded cut-size plastic tubing to distinguish between the hoses carrying different fluids in your vintage car. It is therefore advisable to consult the supplier of the cut-to-size plastic before you make your order so that you are sure that the material that you choose is available in the colours that you want.

Electrical Conductivity

Some plastics, such as fibreglass reinforced thermoset polyester, are electrically conductive. Others may not be electrically conductive. You need to consider whether the plastic that you wish to buy will serve as an electrical conductor, such as plastics that will be used in electrical equipment, before you place your order.

As you can see, there is a lot more that you need to consider when you are ordering cut-to-size plastics from a supplier. Do not be lulled into thinking you have nothing more to think about once you have measured the dimensions of the place where the plastic will be used. You may even need to talk to the plastics supplier so that he or she confirms that what you have selected is the best for your DIY project.