Extruded plastic profiles are long strips or channels of plastic with a uniform cross-section. They have many uses, from joining boards to protecting edges, to closing gaps on flat or curved surfaces.
To form the profile shape, high-performance plastic material is pushed through a die with a cutout of the profile shape, and as the plastic emerges it takes on that shape without variation. Common shapes include angles, tees, channels, U shapes, and flat bars; although, custom profile shapes can also be made.
National Plastic & Seals is a leading manufacturer of custom, extruded plastic profiles for applications in many industries. Learn more about the advantages of using extruded plastic profiles and some common uses for them.
The Benefits of Extruded Plastic Profiles
The extrusion process is efficient and highly consistent, which makes for a reliable product in any application. A variety of plastics are compatible with extrusion so customers can select the optimal material for different settings and use cases. Some of the primary advantages of using extruded plastic profiles include:
Design flexibility and customizability
Extruded plastic profiles are easily customizable by making a die in the shape of the desired profile.
Efficiency and cost-effectiveness
Extrusion is a near-net-shape process that optimizes material use because the die forces the material into the exact shape needed, with little waste. This can make extrusion very cost effective.
Eco-friendliness and sustainability
Using recyclable plastics for profiles means that any scrap or trimmings can be recycled as well.
Cutting-edge technologies and materials
Precision die-making and advanced extruders improve the ability to control the melted plastic material as it is forced through the die, for a more precise shape. Computerized tools like simulation software allow designers to model profile shapes and test their performance prior to manufacturing. This helps inform material selection as well as profile design.
Common Applications of Plastic Profiles
Because there are so many types of fabricated plastic materials and so many shapes that work with it, extruded profiles are widely used in different industries. Some common examples are:
- Construction. Plastic profiles offer superior durability and tensile strength for construction applications, from piping and window frames to guttering, rooflights, industrial lighting components, and protecting electrical cables.
- Agriculture. Plastic profiles resist corrosion above and below ground. They are used for animal tagging and feeding, for pipes in land drainage systems, in decking and fencing, for plant trays, and plastic posts.
- Consumer goods, household items, and hospitality. Refrigerator seals, furniture trims, threshold transition strips, and electrical equipment are commonly made from extruded plastic.
- Safety and security. Fire-resistant seals, protective corner strips, and fire blanket holders can be made through extrusion.
- Data centers. Power distribution systems in data centers often incorporate plastic profiles for insulating and thermal protection.
- Automotive and transportation. Exterior and interior trims and seals are types of plastic profiles used in cars, trucks, and other vehicles. Profiles are also used for light distribution and diffusion in aircraft or passenger train compartments, and to finish panel edges on escalators and elevators.
- Lighting. Many industrial, office, residential, and aircraft lighting panels include extruded plastic profiles to join sections and close gaps. Wiring and cords can also be contained with plastic channels and angles to keep lighting applications organized.
- Retail. Channels, contoured strips, and angles are used in retail displays, cabinetry, and shelving to add strength and create a finished or colorful look.
Plastic Profiles by National Plastics
National Plastics is a leading supplier of custom extruded plastic profiles in a variety of shapes, sizes, lengths, and materials. In addition to profiles, we offer many custom and stock products including o-rings, tubing, seals, and more. We work with materials including, but not limited to polyethylene, PTFE, PET, expanded PVC, and more.
Contact us for more information about our capabilities and services, or request a quote for your next custom plastic profile.