With a number of benefits to thermosetting plastics vs. thermoplastics, the methods and materials fill an important role in the plastic fabrication industry. Within the class of thermosetting polymers, there are a number of different types of material that each serve unique purposes and applications. As a leader in reaction injection molding (RIM) and resin transfer molding (RTM), Osborne Industries has the capability to work with a number of different thermosetting plastics:
RTM Thermosetting Plastics (Fiberglass-Reinforced)
Osborne pioneered the resin transfer molding process in the 1970s before it was established as an industry norm. The closed-molding process utilizes a fiber preform to create finished products that are optimized for strength, hardness, color, flame resistance, corrosion resistance, and abrasion resistance.
- Polyester
- Vinyl Ester
- Polyimides
RIM Thermosetting Plastics
Osborne’s reaction injection molding offers highly competitive prices, even at low production volumes. The process drastically reduces tooling cost while utilizing materials and polymers that are highly impact, corrosion, and temperature resistant. These types of plastic also offer a number of production benefits from the ability to vary wall thickness to lower energy and space requirements.
- pDCPD (polydicyclopentadiene)
- Polyurethanes
- Polyureas
- Structural Foams
Other Thermosetting Plastic Types
Osborne only utilizes the thermosetting resins that will offer clients the best combination of utility and value. Although we do not typically work with them, there are a number of other thermosetting polymers available:
- Epoxies
- Melamine
- Silicone
- Urea Formaldehyde
