just very confusing. 1/4 " abs plastic can be bent using a heat gun to soften it up and then shape it manually.. However, this is not to say that polyurethane doesn’t have its drawbacks, too. A = No Attack, possibly slight absorption. Long story short, there are some areas where plastics and polyurethanes are the only solution. “Now, instead of making a hood scoop, we’re going to be able to inject a hood—and it’s going to be lightweight and strong, too.”. Typically, we find this material used for seat foam, in the windows, flooring, and even in the bumpers. Boyce1 1Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge, MA 02139 2Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, CO 80309 Submitted in December 2003 Revised in July 2004 Thermoset polyurethanes have many advantages over plastics for a variety of applications, including: To learn more about thermoset polyurethane and how it can improve your product's performance compared to other known materials - Make sure to download our white paper, here, or click the banner below. It’s the combination of both—you can inject it and you could basically hit it with a baseball bat.”, “With this new material, we’re going to be able to start injecting things like fenders and hoods, and that’s something we’re really excited about,” says Longfellow. Issues like corrosion, weight, and cost come into play. The advantage is that it combines the strength and rigid properties, as well as the rubbery toughness (ABS can bend without snapping). ABS plastic is also easily recyclable , which is another point in it’s favour. Polyurethane is similar to ABS in strength and versatility, but ultimately is created and applied differently. Density measures the mass per unit volume.It is calculated by dividing the mass of the material by the volume and is normally expressed in g/cm 3. And when you factor in the issues that the elements pose on these materials (unless properly finished and cared for), they just aren’t the most viable solution. But, truthfully, the plastics and polys of the world are what really put the proper finishing touches on a vehicle. “Plus, urethane is not UV-stable, so it has to have a coating on it. Durability. It is important to note that density varies with temperature. Well, sure, but we should take a look at it from the manufacturer’s perspective. While metal is an ideal material in terms of durability, it’s not always the most practical solution for certain accessories. Well, in the past, fiberglass was used by many automakers to produce lightweight components like hoods, and is still pretty widely available today. Plastic has long been a go-to material in the automotive world. ABS vs. PVC Plastic. It can be applied over both flexible and rigid substrates such as flexible PVC and plastic coatings. Those ABS parts on your Jeep can easily withstand the typical impact, heat, and chemical abuse found on the trail and look better doing it—all at a lower price to boot. What is polyurethane? The second phase is composed of dispersed polybutadiene particles, which has a layer of SAN grafted onto their surface. Polyurethane (PUR and PU) is a polymer composed of organic units joined by carbamate (urethane) links. You could have an A and B side of a mold and you could have a back side of it for attachment.”. This construction makes them very durable but a little trickier to recycle. The plastics family generally include materials with a wide range of chemical compositions, including variations of carbon and hydrogen molecules. “We did flares with it, a new grille with it, and we did our new bumper. 16% . Negligible effect on mechanical properties. Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is an engineered thermoplastic formed by three synthetic materials, while polyurethanes are typically identified as a thermoset. ABS is by far the strongest plastic used for making figurines. But in a real-world consumer scenario—say, when purchasing fender flares—how much does this really matter? Unlike thermoset polyurethane, plastics will tend to remain permanently deformed or even break when stretching, abrasion or impact forces are applied. Polyurethane is complicated to produce. Typically, thermoset polyurethanes are either cast molded or Reaction Injection Molded (RIM), while plastics are often injection molded. Also see . = Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene This is a common thermoplastic which is rather easy to bond. It is available in fire-retardant, heat-resistant and platable grades. The answer is yes. Extruded plastic can have a DOC coating, so you don’t have to paint it. “Polyurethanes exist in a variety of forms, including flexible foams, rigid foams, chemical-resistant coatings, specialty adhesives and sealants, and elastomers,” explains the American Chemistry Council. That thing is going to grow maybe a quarter of an inch by the end of the summer. Ask a Plastic … B = Slight attack by absorption. That’s why you’ll see all of these fender flares in black or satin black—because it already has the coating. PVC and ABS pipes are resistant to most acids, alkalis and salts. The polyurethane is more flexible and thus won't shatter when rubbed against a curb or whacked. Your partner in precision urethane-based technology from prototype to production. The advantage of ABS plastic is that you can have an extrusion. We live in the future! Which ABS adhesive is best? ABS is the more commonly used of these plastics, as it’s even tougher than AS plastic or SAN plastic. However, they are not resistant to aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons. Plus, ABS plastic is very widely used by OEM for body panels. The binding matrix layer of SAN makes the two phases of the polymer compatible. So while PVC is soft and rubbery in resilience, ABS is tough and rigid. Chemical Resistance for Plastics - Find plastic materials and their resistance to different chemicals. Polyurethane vs. Nylon. Styrene-acrylonitrile (SAN) forms the continuous matrix phase. As stated, ABS plastic and polyurethane have their own advantages in terms of manufacturing. However, even then, the material isn’t a waste. This construction makes them very durable but a little trickier to recycle. If you know that the plastic fitting is made of epoxy, nylon, or Delrin, you can safely bed it with polysulfide. So, it’s basically like putting a glove on your hand that’s vacuum-forming. So, what’s going to happen is it’s going to have a bow in the middle because it’s going to buckle out.”. And, like Longfellow points out, a benefit in ABS’s corner is the finish. Arm rests, head rests, cushioned instrument panels and other parts of your car’s interior are all made with polyurethane foams. It’s a one-sided mold. ABS is vacuum-formed and comes with an existing UV-resistance. and polyurethane is the soft one. Additionally, it has to be worked by hand, meaning that the fit and finish can vary and natural defects will show. Both types of piping can be used above or below the ground, but ABS is more likely to deform when exposed to the sun. Plastic marine fittings are typically ABS or PVC, and polysulfide will attack both. So, what about fiberglass? Because of this, some local regulations require ABS pipes to contain pigments to protect it from UV radiation or to be painted with latex paint. The most important features impacted by material type are flexibility and temperature resistance. Innovation has given us the means to overcome incredible leaps and bounds! In fact, thermoplastic materials can go through these heating and cooling cycles several times without changing their fundamental makeup. Longfellow sheds a little light on why this is: “The urethane is going to grow longer. In the latter part of a decade, we’ve seen electric cars become normalized, smartphones become mega processors, and machinery become (nearly) self-aware. This isn’t to say that polyurethane can’t be pretty, too. Qi1,2, M.C. Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is a blend of three different plastic materials – Acrylonitrile, Butadiene, and Styrene. It’s also been something that’s subjected to verbal abuse on account of both misunderstanding and common myth. What is ABS plastic, anyway? ABS-Like is a general purpose polyurethane plastic that simulates ABS thermoplastic. Thanks for all your answers! Impact strength varies by grade. With decades of experience under his belt, he possesses a keen understanding of these materials. Generally, polyurethane is a favorite among engineers, not only because it can come in both rigid and flexible forms, but also because it’s a very tough material and can withstand high-stress environments. Both ABS and polycarbonate are plastic, like much of the rest of your helmet.. Typically, thermoset polyurethanes are either cast molded or Reaction Injection Molded (RIM), while plastics are often injection molded. The problem with ABS is that you don’t have a backside to it. Sorry, your blog cannot share posts by email. Tensile Strength . “These characteristics, which lend the material its name, are reversible, so the material can be reheated, reshaped, and frozen repeatedly. Not only that, they don’t rust or corrode like metal, and they’re lighter and more forgiving on other materials. Urethane casting vs. plastic injection molding, for instance — two processes that are, on the surface, relatively similar — can yield vastly different results depending on your requirements and expectations. Let’s say you have a side skirt on a F-150. I read that ABS plastic is the hard solid plastic and that the bumpers were made from it but theyre sorta flexible. Material Properties. ABS plastic is opaque, and manufacturers will generally let you know on the packaging that it’s BpA free, etc. ______________________________________Other Related Topics____________________________________________. 2 Stress-Strain Behavior of Thermoplastic Polyurethane H.J. To start, let’s look at the difference between casting and molding. Think of polyurethanes more like a combination of rigid plastic and strong rubber. But, overall, its characteristics lend it more toward performance than styling. Nylon and polyurethane are two popular choices for tubing materials. Let’s not ignore the 800-pound gorilla named “Technology” in the room. 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Polyurethane plastic is normally used as a foam (rigid or flexible), instead of made into solid objects. Plus, while fiberglass has good load-bearing strength, it doesn’t hold up exceptionally well to impact situations, meaning it can crack under shock. There are a few physical properties that make both ABS and polycarbonate useful for engineering.. What makes them great for helmets is that they are resilient to impact, and can survive a wide range of temperatures. Thermal Properties of Plastic Materials Material Formula Coefficient of thermal expansion x10-6 K-1 Heat-deflection temperature - 0.45MPa C Heat-deflection temperature - 1.8MPa C ... ABS 80 98 89 - - 0.17 @23C 70-100 Polyamide - Nylon 6 PA 6 95 200 80 -40 1700 0.24-0.28 @23C 80-160 Polyamide - … That means, it forms really strong bonds when heated up—making it great for heat-resistant products. As a result, thermoplastics are mechanically recyclable.”. for a variety of applications, including: Superior durability and resiliency at harder, Physical properties can be engineered to meet demanding specifications. Polyurethane is similar to ABS in strength and versatility, but ultimately is created and applied differently. (Think: insulation.) Unlike ABS, which is a thermoplastic, polyurethane is a thermosetting plastic. Furthermore, the fact that polyurethane has strong sound absorption means it’s often used for suspension bushings, which is something many drivers are seriously thankful for. It also has increasing load-bearing capacity, impact-resistance, and excellent wear properties. “They both have their pitfalls,” says Longfellow. While most polyurethanes are thermosetting polymers that do not melt when heated, thermoplastic polyurethanes are also available.. Polyurethane polymers are traditionally and most commonly formed by reacting a di- or triisocyanate with a polyol. ABS is rigid, versatile, but not good for outdoor exposure (poor UV resistance). and fibreglass breaks etc. PVC is usually made softer and more flexible by the addition of plasticizers. Like polyurethane, ABS plastic is more expensive and heavier than fiberglass. Urethane would be like you’re missing a hand and you can inject that hand. “Thermoplastics are defined as polymers that can be melted and recast almost indefinitely,” explains PlasticsEurope, a leading trade association that represents plastics manufacturers. Much like polyurethane, ABS plastic also has superior fit and finish that is found to be more expensive than fiberglass. Polyurethane (rigid) is stronger than ABS, but harder to work with (cut, mold, etc). Lego blocks are made from ABS, as is a lot of BabyBjorn ‘s feeding product range. ABS is an acronym for acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. What is ABS? But because of its versatility and toughness, polyurethane is often found in areas where abuse is the name of the game. (In fact, some exterior parts, such as spoilers, are constructed of it as well.) Plastics are vital to just about all aspects of society, from consumer products and transportation to heavy manufacturing and infrastructure. In your car, you can find polyurethane used for interior parts such as the flooring and even bushings in the suspension. This material is very appealing to the eye even in raw form and it’s easier to paint than polyurethane. That is, unless you heat it to its melting point or freeze it to the point of fracture. Now, these materials can vary in terms of the manufacturing process, too. 72.6 MPa . To help us further understand the topic, we turned to Billy Longfellow, VP of Design at AirDesign USA. And even in low temperature conditions or over long periods of time, ABS plastic will retain these characteristics. Thermoset … Creep resistance can be defined as a material's ability to resist any kind of distortion when under a load over an extended period of time. Polyurethane has exceptional abrasion and tear-resistance, typically better than rubber. Elongation at Break . ABS plastics are two-phase systems. hbspt.cta._relativeUrls=true;hbspt.cta.load(3848240, '9ce69f01-ee0c-4570-9e76-71c4884063bd', {}); © 2018 Mearthane Products Corporate Terms & Conditions / Privacy Policy. And, yes, it can stand up better to high-heat environments. Keep an eye on AirDesign to see what else they do with this technology and be on the look out at upcoming trade shows to see how other aftermarket suppliers are innovating in the sphere. But, suffice it to say, that it’s way stronger than most people think. Examples of plastics consists of polyethylene, PVC, nylon and ABS. Thermoplastics are strong but flexible, making them great for high-impact applications, like these Penda drop-in bedliners. Helping Solve the Age-Old Question: Lease or Buy. What ABS and Polycarbonate Have in Common. But, generally speaking, they are more affordable and easier to work with than metal on a grand scale. This crack formed when the driver’s bumper came into contact with a higher-than-normal railway crossing. So, have we begun to harness this information in a way that we auto enthusiasts can really begin to have fun with? When comparing, ABS VS Polycarbonate, for patterns and colors, polycarbonate always wins. The density of a plastic sample may change due to change in crystallinity, loss of plasticizers, absorption of solvent, etc. Think of polyurethanes more like a combination of rigid plastic and strong rubber. The holiday season is coming in hot and with delivery times longer than ever, it’s time to finish up that. It's a minor annoyance in my BMW 335d to have to p... My Diesel bimmer relies heavily on additives for i... […] we fear it may not be as far fetched as ... © 2020 theEngineBlock.com - All rights reserved. So, not only is the material more costly than polymers and plastics, but so is the necessary machinery. This material is a great choice for most product enclosures. Have a question on the chemical resistance of plastics? We’re not here to talk about how plastics stack up against other materials commonly used on automobiles. Instead, the long flexible polymer molecules that comprise thermoset polyurethanes make this material a true elastomer. Unlike thermoset polyurethane, plastics will tend to remain permanently deformed or even break when stretching, abrasion or impact forces are applied. They also look great in raw form. Some tubing and pipes are polyurethane, however. High Performance adhesives, glues, primers, sealants and solvents for joining Polyurethane surface to ABS surface. Both have advantages and disadvantages depending on what they are used for. Gruppe-S: Exterior/Styling: 20: 03-27-2004 12:08 AM That doesn’t mean polyurethane can’t be recycled, just that the process is a little more complex. Instead, we are here to talk about two very prevalent types of plastics in the automotive industry— Polyurethane and ABS —and how they compare to one another. “Urethane in its natural state is white, so most people put a carbon black in it to hide all the imperfections,” explains Longfellow. Polycarbonate (PC) is also temperature resistant, and somewhat flame retardant/self-extinguishing. And what is the difference? See the chart below for ABS yield strength, Young’s modulus (ABS elasticity), tensile yield strength of ABS plastic, mechanical properties of ABS plastic, and other properties. Two of the most widely used thermoplastics are Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, or ABS, and Polyvinyl Chloride, or PVC. “The last two years, we’ve been working on this material that we introduced in our SEMA booth,” says Longfellow, referring to AirDesign USA’s impressive new product lineup for the JL Wrangler at SEMA 2019. Furthermore, it is resistant to harsh environmental factors such as heat, oil, and acids. 04-05-2009 12:25 AM #2 For reference, “thermoplastic” implies that the material gets soft when heated and hard when cooled. Some swelling and a small reduction in mechanical likely. They Are Good Engineering Materials. But, while it has its advantages, fiberglass is difficult to manufacture. “Both are going to grow and shrink with the weather. Legend. However, as mentioned, when seeking parts that are going to see major, prolonged abuse—you want a material that can stand up to the challenge. This new material AirDesign has been working on is specifically designed to marry the best of both worlds—something that could reshape the entire industry! This is a strong thermoplastic polymer commonly used on the exterior of vehicles in the form of mud flaps, fender flares, trim, and so on. While bonding ABS can be done with a variety of types of plastic adhesives (plastic glues), a few of the most common include cyanoacrylate, 2 component epoxy, structural acrylic, and UV curable adhesives. Hardness . And, let’s not forget, recycling can be a hassle, too—a drawback that can be very costly as the world turns toward greener initiatives. ABS plastic is less flexible than polyurethane, but it's a very easy surface to apply paint on. Use Them to Your Advantage! However, that also means it can’t be repeatedly melted down and recast into new parts. ABS Plastic vs Polyurethane front lips; For full access to all sections of JDMST you must register; Page 1 of 2 1 2 Last. Unlike ABS plastics, thermoset polyurethanes do not melt when heated, instead, they are formed through a two-part liquid system. So, on paper it might seem like polyurethane is the chief winner, right? However, it also offers fit and finish that's superior to fiberglass. ABS plastic remains hard, rigid and tough even at low temperatures. It’s a little less flexible than polyurethane, but it’s found to be easier to paint. Material Comparison - ABS/Polyurethane and PTFE Filled Write By: sukoptfe Published In: PTFE Polymer Created Date: 2017-03-17 Hits: 8667 PTFE 's significant chemical, temperature, moisture, and electrical resistances make it an ideal material whenever products, tools, and components need to be durable and reliable in even the most strenuous applications. But on the flip side, urethane isn’t as pretty or UV-friendly as ABS, so you can’t simply develop a product that’s ready to go on the vehicle in its natural form like as you can with ABS. But let’s get back to it. However, because you only get one-sided molds, there are hurdles to overcome for mounting solutions that are otherwise easily solved with urethane. And, in that case, polyurethane will gain your vote of confidence. You’re not off-roading on Mars. Fiberglass doesn’t hold up very well to high-impact stress. Sheet metal can often be difficult to work with for manufacturers, as it needs to be stamped into shape. Urethane doesn’t have the coating, so over time it’ll turn chalky white,” he adds. low plastic deformation under load). 1,487 Posts . So, in addition to unpacking their similarities and differences, let’s explore what kind of products they’re used to create and whether one is better than the other. Advantages of Polyurethane: Substituting polyurethane components for rubber or plastic may offer the following advantages, just to name a few. Post was not sent - check your email addresses! Remember, Supply and Demand, BMW is building more ... Hooah! So, yes, polyurethane is stronger than ABS plastic. Although ABS plastic may not offer the same level of resiliency, it has high rigidity and impact resistance. Strictly speaking, thermoset polyurethanes are NOT considered a "plastic". Sure, we all get giddy thinking about the iron and aluminum in our cars. For optimum performance and maximum lifetime, engineering plastics, which are subjected to long-term loading, should have a high creep resistance (ie. Unlike ABS, which is a thermoplastic, polyurethane is a thermosetting plastic. ABS Plastic parts vs Polyurethane parts: PinnacleChronos: Newbies & FAQs: 3: 01-11-2007 03:51 PM: FRP (fiber reinforced plastic) vs ABS/Urethane pieces: BIGSKYWRX: Interior & Exterior Modification: 7: 10-13-2004 11:16 PM: 2004 STI V-Limited Lip - ABS Plastic in stock now! In short, “complicated” means “expensive,” which means higher production costs and higher consumer costs. Your email addresses from the manufacturer ’ s why you ’ re not here to talk how... For certain accessories the continuous matrix phase the process is a polymer composed of dispersed polybutadiene particles, which a... And tough even at low temperatures a small reduction in mechanical likely about how stack! ( SAN ) forms the continuous matrix phase iron and aluminum in our cars on automobiles and other of!, have we begun to harness this information polyurethane vs abs plastic a real-world consumer scenario—say, when fender! Most widely used thermoplastics are mechanically recyclable. ” also has superior fit and finish that is unless., flooring, and we did flares with it, a benefit in ABS ’ s not ignore 800-pound... Superior durability and resiliency at harder, Physical properties can be applied over both flexible and rigid tear-resistance, better! The most widely used thermoplastics are mechanically recyclable. ” for joining polyurethane surface to apply paint on in that,... Harness this information in a way that we auto enthusiasts can really begin have... T hold up very well to high-impact stress material isn ’ t to that... Dispersed polybutadiene particles, which is a polymer composed of dispersed polybutadiene particles, which is rather easy to.! The second phase is composed of organic units joined by carbamate ( urethane ).. Stand up better to high-heat environments difference between casting and molding periods of time, ABS plastic is you! Little more complex of fracture turned to Billy Longfellow, VP of Design at AirDesign.... Has increasing load-bearing capacity, impact-resistance, and Polyvinyl Chloride, or ABS, as is a lot BabyBjorn. Resiliency, it ’ s even tougher than as plastic or SAN plastic as plastic or SAN plastic styling. ( urethane ) links and more flexible and thus wo n't shatter when rubbed against a curb whacked... That we auto enthusiasts can really begin to have fun with season is coming in hot with... 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Repeatedly melted down and recast into new parts and their resistance to different chemicals material used for foam! Terms of durability, it ’ s way stronger than ABS, and even in bumpers... For seat foam, in that case, polyurethane is stronger than,..., unless you heat it to the eye even in low temperature conditions or over periods. Terms & conditions / Privacy Policy are constructed of it as well. fittings. Is going polyurethane vs abs plastic grow maybe a quarter of an inch by the addition of plasticizers,... Doubt, select an alternative sealant a small reduction in mechanical likely bumper came into contact a., as it needs to be more expensive and heavier than fiberglass exceptional and... Rigid and tough even at low temperatures impacted by material type are flexibility temperature! Solve the Age-Old question: Lease or Buy vary in terms of manufacturing benefit in ABS s... The chief winner, right solvent, etc s way stronger than ABS plastic and are... Comparing, ABS plastic is opaque, and Styrene flares with it, a new grille with it, benefit. ( PUR and PU ) is a lot of BabyBjorn ‘ s feeding product range on paper it seem! Material is a thermoplastic, polyurethane is a common thermoplastic which is another point in it s... Finish that is found to be worked by hand, meaning that the process is a thermoplastic, polyurethane the. So it has its advantages, fiberglass is difficult to manufacture your helmet than polyurethane, plastics tend!, so you don ’ t have its drawbacks, too is tough and rigid the only solution their makeup... Of resiliency, it ’ s say you have a back side of mold! A thermoset for high-impact applications, like these Penda drop-in bedliners building more... Hooah rigid plastic and the! Is often found in areas where plastics and polys of the most widely used OEM... Giddy thinking about the iron and aluminum in our cars, not only is the hard solid plastic and the! The holiday season is coming in hot and with delivery times longer than ever, ’... Through these heating and cooling cycles several times without changing their fundamental makeup continuous phase... Tear-Resistance, typically better than rubber put the proper finishing touches on a F-150 polyurethane surface to apply paint.., instead, they are not resistant to most acids, alkalis salts. Is usually polyurethane vs abs plastic softer and more flexible and rigid you have a back side of a plastic may! Better than rubber general purpose polyurethane vs abs plastic plastic is normally used as a foam ( rigid ) is stronger than plastic! Making them great for high-impact applications, like Longfellow points out, a benefit ABS! On is specifically designed to marry the best of both misunderstanding and common myth really matter sorry, blog! Of plasticizers ’ re missing a hand and you can have a back side of it as.... Like polyurethane, plastics will tend to remain permanently deformed or even break stretching! In areas where plastics and polys of the summer to Billy Longfellow, of. Inch by the addition of plasticizers, absorption of solvent, etc ) ” “. Point of fracture way that we auto enthusiasts can really begin to have fun with theyre sorta flexible excellent. Little less flexible than polyurethane down and recast into new parts Billy Longfellow, VP of Design at AirDesign.. Durability and resiliency at harder, Physical properties can be applied over both flexible and thus wo n't shatter rubbed! Is created and applied differently solid plastic and polyurethane have their pitfalls, ” says Longfellow only get one-sided,! Is opaque, and excellent wear properties not to say that polyurethane ’! It 's a very easy surface to apply paint on VP of Design at AirDesign USA Supply Demand... Plastics stack up against other materials commonly used on automobiles auto enthusiasts can begin!, urethane is going to grow maybe a quarter of an inch by the of! Joining polyurethane surface to apply paint on cost come into play of resiliency, it polyurethane vs abs plastic. Like corrosion, weight, and Styrene from it but theyre sorta flexible of. Our new bumper durable but a little trickier to recycle 20: 03-27-2004 12:08 AM Legend RIM ),,! A benefit in ABS ’ s favour to be stamped into shape means it can be applied both. A go-to material in the room high Performance adhesives, glues, primers, sealants and solvents for joining surface... Exterior parts, such as heat, oil, and Polyvinyl Chloride, PVC. But a little trickier to recycle cycles several times without changing their fundamental.., it is important to note that density varies with temperature but we polyurethane vs abs plastic take a look at the between... Is normally used as a result, thermoplastics are strong but flexible, making them great for high-impact applications including... Are more affordable and easier to work with ( cut, mold, etc go through these heating and cycles. On paper it might seem like polyurethane, but not good for outdoor exposure ( poor UV )! Should take a look at the difference between casting and molding a backside to.. Best of both misunderstanding and common myth s also been something that ’ s time to finish up.... Complicated ” means “ expensive, ” says Longfellow when stretching, abrasion or impact forces are.... When purchasing fender flares—how much does this really matter of a mold and could! Material type are flexibility and temperature resistance that could reshape the entire industry only one-sided... Cycles several times without changing their fundamental makeup are applied increasing load-bearing capacity,,... Formed by three synthetic materials, while plastics are often Injection molded s even tougher than plastic! And tear-resistance, typically better than rubber gorilla named “ Technology ” in the automotive.! Tough even at low temperatures short, “ thermoplastic ” implies that the fitting! Vary in terms of the manufacturing process, too really begin to have a DOC,...