{"id":15945,"date":"2026-10-26T10:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-10-26T09:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/what-plastic-material-do-i-need-for-my-plastic-product\/"},"modified":"2026-11-13T13:02:23","modified_gmt":"2026-11-13T12:02:23","slug":"what-plastic-material-do-i-need-for-my-plastic-product","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/what-plastic-material-do-i-need-for-my-plastic-product\/","title":{"rendered":"What plastic material do I need for my plastic product?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Choosing the right plastic material is an important part of developing a plastic product. The material largely determines how the product behaves during use. Does it need to be strong, stay flexible, withstand high temperatures or resist chemicals?<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are many different plastics, each with their own properties and applications. In this blog we explain what to look out for when choosing a plastic material and what influence this choice has on the injection molding process.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-1 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#f6861f\"><a href=\"#configurator\"><strong>Find out which material fits your product with our configurator!<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background\" style=\"background-color:#f6861f\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color has-large-font-size wp-elements-2\" id=\"let-op\">Please note:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-3 wp-block-paragraph\">This blog provides general guidelines for choosing a plastic material. The final material choice depends on the specific application and product requirements. Properties can also differ per material variant, for example due to additives or reinforcements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-fe48e5de wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-fill\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/contact\/\" style=\"border-bottom-left-radius:3px\">Get in touch, no obligation<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background\" style=\"background-color:#00142c\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 id=\"samenvatting\" class=\"wp-block-heading has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color has-large-font-size wp-elements-4\">Summary<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-5\">\n<li class=\"has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-6\">Choosing the right plastic starts with the properties your product needs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-7\">Factors such as strength, flexibility, temperature resistance and chemical resistance all play an important role.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-8\">Different plastics are suitable for different applications.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-9\">The choice of material also affects the injection molding process and the end result.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-10\">In this blog you&#8217;ll read what to look out for when choosing a plastic material.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<h2 id=\"bekijk-video\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Watch video<\/h2>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe title=\"7 Different Types of Plastic and Their Uses | Orange Plastics Academy\" width=\"1300\" height=\"731\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/PbuiIhr0LVA?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br\/><\/p>\n\n<section class=\"wp-block-qi-blocks-columns qodef-gutenberg-section qodef--template qodef-block-58f5bb9d qodef-col-num--1 qodef-col-layout--100 qodef-content--boxed\"><div class=\"qodef-section-background-overlay\"><\/div><div class=\"qodef-gutenberg-row\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-qi-blocks-column qodef-gutenberg-column qodef-block-59dc7068\"><div class=\"qodef-gutenberg-column-inner\">\n<div id=\"rank-math-toc\" class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\">\r\n<h3>Table of contents<\/h3>\r\n<nav>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#let-op\">Please note:<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#samenvatting\">Summary<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#bekijk-video\">Watch video<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#waar-op-letten\">\r\nWhat should you consider when choosing plastic?<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#welk-kunststof-past-bij-mijn-product\">\r\nWhich plastic fits my product?<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#welke-invloed-heeft-materiaalkeuze-op-spuitgieten\">\r\nWhat influence does material choice have on injection molding?<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#hoe-kies-je-het-juiste-kunststof-materiaal\">\r\nHow do you choose the right plastic material?<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#conclusie\">Conclusion<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#uw-product-laten-ontwikkelen\">Want your product developed?<\/a><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/nav><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n<h2 id=\"waar-op-letten\" class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:40px\">What should you consider when choosing plastic?<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not every plastic material is suitable for every application. To make the right choice, first look at the properties your product needs. A part that needs to withstand a lot of force, for example, requires different properties than a flexible part or a product used outdoors.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\">Strength and impact resistance<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Does your product need to withstand bumps, drops or mechanical load? Then strength and impact resistance are important properties to look at.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Materials such as <strong>ABS, PC and PA <\/strong>are used, for example, for applications where a combination of strength and impact resistance is important, such as gears and bearings. Which plastic is most suitable depends on the load and the other requirements for the product.<\/p>\n\n<h3 id=\"1-smelten-van-het-kunststofgranulaat-1-1\" class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\">Flexible<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some products need to be able to bend or deform without breaking right away. Flexible plastics are interesting for this, although the degree of flexibility varies strongly per material.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>PP<\/strong> is semi-rigid and owes its flexibility mainly to a thin wall thickness, which makes it suitable for, for example, living hinges and snap-fit connections. TPU is a true elastomer and much more rubber-like in nature, which in turn makes it interesting for applications such as grips, seals or soft components that need to absorb more deformation.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\">Temperature resistance<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Is your plastic product exposed to high or low temperatures? Then it&#8217;s important to look at how the material behaves under those conditions.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>PC and PA<\/strong> can be suitable for applications where higher temperatures play a role. For applications at low temperatures, PE and PP, among others, can be interesting. The exact temperature resistance differs per material variant and application.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\">Chemical resistance<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Does your product come into contact with, for example, cleaning agents, oils or other chemicals? Then the material needs to be resistant to that.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Plastics such as <strong>PP, PE\/HDPE, PVC and POM<\/strong> are used for various applications because of their chemical resistance. Here too, it&#8217;s important to look at exactly which substances the product comes into contact with.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\">Wear resistance<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For moving parts or products subject to a lot of friction, wear resistance is important. You want to prevent the material from wearing down quickly due to continuous contact.&#13;\n<strong>POM and PA<\/strong> are used, for example, for parts where low friction and wear resistance are important.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\">UV and weather resistance<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Will your product be placed outdoors? Then you also need to take into account exposure to sunlight, rain and temperature fluctuations.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>HDPE and PP<\/strong> can be suitable for outdoor applications. For products exposed to UV radiation over a long period, a UV stabilizer can be added to the material.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\">Appearance<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Technical properties aren&#8217;t the only factor at play. The appearance of your product can also be decisive for the material choice.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Think of, for example:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Color<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Transparency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gloss<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Surface finish.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For a consumer product, a certain look and feel can be just as important as the technical properties, for example.&#13;\n<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1536\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/foto-telefoonhoesje-TPU-Spuitgieten-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15827\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em><em>For phone cases, for example, TPU is widely used because it&#8217;s strong yet flexible.<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n\n<h2 id=\"welk-kunststof-past-bij-mijn-product\" class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:40px\">Which plastic fits my product?<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Which plastic fits your product depends on the application and the properties you need. A housing for electronics, for example, requires different properties than a flexible phone case, a gear, or a plastic part for outdoor use. So first list the most important requirements for your product, then look at which plastic best fits them.&#13;\n<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"943\" src=\"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/orange-plastics-kunststoffen-infographic-2.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15829\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h2 id=\"welke-invloed-heeft-materiaalkeuze-op-spuitgieten\" class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:40px\">What influence does material choice have on injection molding?<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The choice of material doesn&#8217;t only affect the final product. Every plastic also behaves differently during the injection molding process.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, plastics differ in:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Processing temperature<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shrinkage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flow properties<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dimensional stability<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cycle time<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Surface quality.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These properties can also affect the design of the mold and the way the product is produced. That&#8217;s why it&#8217;s important to factor material choice into the development process at an early stage.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A material may seem technically suitable for a product, but be less suitable for the desired production method or design. By aligning material choice and design with each other, you prevent problems during production.<\/p>\n\n<h2 id=\"hoe-kies-je-het-juiste-kunststof-materiaal\" class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:40px\">How do you choose the right plastic material?<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Choosing a plastic starts with your product&#8217;s application. By going through the steps below, you get a better picture of which materials could be suitable.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\">1. Determine the application<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What is your product used for? Also think about the load the product gets during use. Is it, for example, loaded, bent, exposed to heat, or used in a moving application?<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\">2. Determine the most important properties<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then clarify which properties are important. Does the product need to be, for example, <strong>strong, flexible, wear-resistant, transparent or chemically resistant<\/strong>?<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\">3. Look at the environment<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The environment in which the product is used can also be decisive. Take into account, for example:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Temperature<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Moisture<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>UV radiation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chemicals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mechanical load.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\">4. Compare suitable materials<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you&#8217;ve determined the most important requirements, you can compare different plastics with each other. Don&#8217;t look at just one property, but at the combination of properties your product needs.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\">5. Take the production process into account<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The material not only needs to be suitable for the application, but also for the way you want to produce the product. With injection molding, for example, processing temperature, shrinkage and flow properties all play a role.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\">6. Get advice<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not sure which plastic material fits your product? Use our <strong>material selection quiz<\/strong> and discover which materials fit the application and properties of the product. Can&#8217;t figure it out? Then a specialist from Orange Plastics can think it through with you. We work with more than <strong>50 types of plastics<\/strong> and can compare different materials based on your product and product requirements.<\/p>\n\n<h3 id=\"configurator\" class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\">Which plastic fits your product?<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Six short questions, then you&#8217;ll see which material fits best.<\/p>\n<link rel=\"preconnect\" href=\"https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\"\/>\n<link rel=\"preconnect\" href=\"https:\/\/fonts.gstatic.com\" crossorigin=\"\"\/>\n<link href=\"https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\/css2?family=Lato:wght@700;900&amp;family=Roboto:wght@400;500;700&amp;display=swap\" rel=\"stylesheet\"\/>\n<style>\n  .op-keuzehulp{\n    --oranje:#EF7D00;\n    --oranje-licht:#FFF4E8;\n    --antraciet:#1E252B;\n    --tekst:#3A424A;\n    --grijs:#8A949D;\n    --lijn:#E4E8EB;\n    --vlak:#F7F8F9;\n    --kop:\"Lato\",\"Roboto\",Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;\n    --body:\"Roboto\",Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;\n\n    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0;font-size:12.5px;color:var(--grijs);line-height:1.45}\n\n  \/* Linkse uitlijning: op bredere schermen geen extra inspringing links *\/\n  @media (min-width:601px){\n    .op-keuzehulp{padding-left:0}\n  }\n\n  @media (max-width:600px){\n    .op-vraag{font-size:18px}\n    .op-eigenschappen{grid-template-columns:repeat(2,minmax(0,1fr))}\n  }\n  @media (prefers-reduced-motion:reduce){.op-keuzehulp *{transition:none!important}}\n<\/style>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"op-keuzehulp\">\n  <div class=\"op-voortgang\" id=\"op-voortgang\">\n    <div class=\"op-balk\"><span id=\"op-balk\"><\/span><\/div>\n    <div class=\"op-teller\" id=\"op-teller\"><\/div>\n  <\/div>\n  <div id=\"op-scherm\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<script>\n(function(){\n  \/\/ scores: sterk, flexibel, slagvast, slijtvast, chemisch bestendig, temperatuurbestendig (1 t\/m 5)\n  var materialen = {\n    TPU:  {voluit:\"thermoplastic polyurethane\", url:\"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/injection-molding\/overmolding\/\",\n           props:[3,5,4,5,4,3],\n           waarom:\"Stretches and springs back while staying wear-resistant. Suitable for seals, buffers and flexible parts that take a lot of punishment.\"},\n    TPE:  {voluit:\"thermoplastic elastomer\", url:\"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/injection-molding\/overmolding\/\",\n           props:[3,5,4,4,3,3],\n           waarom:\"Rubber-like and soft to the touch. The standard choice for grips, soft-touch parts and seals, often combined with a hard material.\"},\n    POM:  {voluit:\"polyoxymethylene\", url:\"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/injection-molding\/pom\/\",\n           props:[5,2,4,5,4,4],\n           waarom:\"Stiff, dimensionally stable and smooth. Parts that rotate, slide or clamp keep working accurately for years, such as gears and bearings.\"},\n    PC:   {voluit:\"polycarbonate\", url:\"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/injection-molding\/pc\/\",\n           props:[5,2,5,3,3,4],\n           waarom:\"Crystal clear and almost impossible to break. The choice for visible parts, light covers and protective covers that need to take a hit.\"},\n    PVC:  {voluit:\"polyvinyl chloride\", url:\"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/injection-molding\/pvc\/\",\n           props:[4,3,3,5,5,3],\n           waarom:\"Resistant to chemicals, moisture and wear. There is a rigid and a flexible variant, so the material can be tailored to your application.\"},\n    PP:   {voluit:\"polypropylene\", url:\"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/injection-molding\/polypropylene\/\",\n           props:[3,4,4,3,5,3],\n           waarom:\"Lightweight, affordable and highly resistant to chemicals. Also suitable for food contact and for parts that flex often, such as a hinge.\"},\n    ABS:  {voluit:\"acrylonitrile butadiene styrene\", url:\"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/injection-molding\/abs\/\",\n           props:[4,2,4,3,3,3],\n           waarom:\"Dimensionally stable with a crisp surface that finishes nicely. Widely used for housings and visible indoor consumer products.\"},\n    PE:   {voluit:\"polyethylene (LDPE)\", url:\"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/injection-molding\/pe-hdpe\/\",\n           props:[3,4,5,5,5,3],\n           waarom:\"Tough and unaffected by moisture and chemicals. Does not break easily on impact, even at low temperatures.\"},\n    HDPE: {voluit:\"high-density polyethylene\", url:\"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/injection-molding\/pe-hdpe\/\",\n           props:[4,3,5,5,5,3],\n           waarom:\"The sturdier variant of PE: impact-resistant, wear-resistant and weather-resistant. Widely used for tanks, containers and outdoor applications.\"}\n  };\n  var eignamen = [\"Strength\",\"Flexibility\",\"Impact resistance\",\"Wear resistance\",\"Chemical resistance\",\"Temperature resistance\"];\n  var volgorde = [\"TPU\",\"TPE\",\"POM\",\"PC\",\"PVC\",\"PP\",\"ABS\",\"PE\",\"HDPE\"];\n\n  var vragen = [\n    {vraag:\"What does the part need to be able to do most?\",\n     toelichting:\"Choose the requirement that matters most.\",\n     opties:[\n      {t:\"Stay rigid and strong\", x:\"It must not bend or deform\",\n       w:{POM:3,ABS:3,PC:2,PVC:2,HDPE:1,PP:0,PE:-1,TPU:-2,TPE:-3}},\n      {t:\"Bend or spring back\", x:\"Think of a hinge, clip or spring action\",\n       w:{TPE:3,TPU:3,PP:3,PE:3,HDPE:0,PVC:0,POM:-1,ABS:-2,PC:-2}},\n      {t:\"Withstand impact\", x:\"The product gets dropped or knocked around\",\n       w:{PC:3,PE:3,HDPE:3,ABS:2,TPU:2,TPE:2,PP:2,POM:1,PVC:0}},\n      {t:\"Resist wear and friction\", x:\"Parts that move against each other\",\n       w:{POM:3,TPU:3,PVC:3,HDPE:2,PE:2,TPE:1,ABS:0,PP:0,PC:0}}\n     ]},\n    {vraag:\"Where will the product be used?\",\n     toelichting:\"The environment often matters more than the shape.\",\n     opties:[\n      {t:\"Indoors, normal conditions\", x:\"Home, office or equipment enclosure\",\n       w:{ABS:4,POM:2,PC:1,PVC:0,PP:0,PE:0,HDPE:0,TPE:0,TPU:0}},\n      {t:\"Outdoors, exposed to the weather\", x:\"Sun, rain and temperature swings\",\n       w:{HDPE:4,PVC:3,PE:2,PP:1,PC:0,TPE:0,TPU:0,POM:-1,ABS:-3}},\n      {t:\"In contact with chemicals or oil\", x:\"Industrial, technical or intensive cleaning use\",\n       w:{PVC:4,PP:3,HDPE:3,PE:3,POM:2,TPU:1,TPE:0,ABS:-2,PC:-3}},\n      {t:\"In contact with food or used in healthcare\", x:\"Hygiene and approved materials\",\n       w:{PP:4,PE:2,HDPE:2,POM:1,PC:1,TPE:1,TPU:0,ABS:-2,PVC:-3}}\n     ]},\n    {vraag:\"Does it need to be possible to see through the product?\",\n     toelichting:\"Think of a window, lens or light cover.\",\n     opties:[\n      {t:\"Yes, it must be transparent\", x:\"\",\n       w:{PC:12,TPE:-4,TPU:-4,POM:-7,PVC:-7,ABS:-7,HDPE:-7,PP:-7,PE:-7}, hard:\"transparant\"},\n      {t:\"Translucent is enough\", x:\"Light needs to pass through; seeing clearly is not required\",\n       w:{PC:3,TPE:1,TPU:1,PP:1,PE:0,HDPE:-1,ABS:-1,PVC:-2,POM:-3}},\n      {t:\"No, that does not matter\", x:\"\", w:{}}\n     ]},\n    {vraag:\"How hot does it get in use?\",\n     toelichting:\"\",\n     opties:[\n      {t:\"Room temperature\", x:\"Up to about 40 \u00b0C\", w:{}},\n      {t:\"Regularly warm\", x:\"Up to about 80 \u00b0C, for example inside a device\",\n       w:{POM:2,PC:2,ABS:1,PVC:1,PP:1,TPE:0,TPU:0,PE:-1,HDPE:-1}},\n      {t:\"Hot\", x:\"Above 100 \u00b0C, steam or high-temperature cleaning\",\n       w:{PC:3,POM:3,PP:1,TPE:-1,TPU:-1,ABS:-2,PVC:-2,PE:-3,HDPE:-3}}\n     ]},\n    {vraag:\"How should the surface feel?\",\n     toelichting:\"This determines whether you need one or two materials.\",\n     opties:[\n      {t:\"Hard and smooth\", x:\"One material is enough\",\n       w:{ABS:2,POM:1,PC:1,PVC:1,PP:1,PE:1,HDPE:1,TPU:-5,TPE:-7}},\n      {t:\"Soft, with grip or a seal\", x:\"Rubber-like feel\",\n       w:{TPE:8,TPU:7,PVC:-6,PP:-7,PE:-7,HDPE:-7,ABS:-7,PC:-7,POM:-7}, hard:\"zacht\"},\n      {t:\"Hard with a soft part attached\", x:\"For example, a grip on a housing\",\n       w:{ABS:2,PC:1,PP:1,POM:1,PVC:0,PE:0,HDPE:0,TPE:0,TPU:0}, tweeK:true}\n     ]},\n    {vraag:\"What matters more in this project?\",\n     toelichting:\"\",\n     opties:[\n      {t:\"Low material cost\", x:\"Large quantities, tight cost price\",\n       w:{PP:3,PE:3,HDPE:2,ABS:1,PVC:1,TPE:-1,POM:-2,TPU:-2,PC:-3}},\n      {t:\"Technical performance\", x:\"It just needs to work; cost is secondary\",\n       w:{POM:3,PC:2,TPU:2,ABS:1,TPE:1,PVC:1,HDPE:0,PP:-2,PE:-2}},\n      {t:\"I don't know yet\", x:\"\", w:{}}\n     ]}\n  ];\n\n  var antwoorden = [];\n  var scherm = document.getElementById(\"op-scherm\");\n  var balk = document.getElementById(\"op-balk\");\n  var teller = document.getElementById(\"op-teller\");\n  var voortgang = document.getElementById(\"op-voortgang\");\n\n  function toonVraag(i){\n    var v = vragen[i];\n    voortgang.style.display = \"flex\";\n    balk.style.width = (i \/ vragen.length * 100) + \"%\";\n    teller.textContent = \"Question \" + (i+1) + \" of \" + vragen.length;\n\n    var h = '<p class=\"op-vraag\">' + v.vraag + '<\/p>';\n    if(v.toelichting){ h += '<p class=\"op-toelichting\">' + v.toelichting + '<\/p>'; }\n    h += '<div class=\"op-antwoorden\">';\n    v.opties.forEach(function(o,k){\n      h += '<button type=\"button\" class=\"op-antwoord\" data-k=\"' + k + '\"><b>' + o.t + '<\/b>' +\n           (o.x ? '<small>' + o.x + '<\/small>' : '') + '<\/button>';\n    });\n    h += '<\/div>';\n    if(i > 0){ h += '<button type=\"button\" class=\"op-terug\" id=\"op-terug\">Previous question<\/button>'; }\n    scherm.innerHTML = h;\n\n    Array.prototype.forEach.call(scherm.querySelectorAll(\".op-antwoord\"), function(knop){\n      knop.addEventListener(\"click\", function(){\n        antwoorden[i] = parseInt(knop.getAttribute(\"data-k\"), 10);\n        if(i + 1 < vragen.length){ toonVraag(i + 1); } else { toonUitslag(); }\n      });\n    });\n    var t = document.getElementById(\"op-terug\");\n    if(t){ t.addEventListener(\"click\", function(){ toonVraag(i - 1); }); }\n  }\n\n  function blokjes(n){\n    var h = '<span class=\"op-blokjes\">';\n    for(var k = 1; k <= 5; k++){ h += '<i class=\"' + (k <= n ? 'aan' : '') + '\"><\/i>'; }\n    return h + '<\/span>';\n  }\n\n  function toonUitslag(){\n    voortgang.style.display = \"none\";\n\n    var scores = {}, tweeK = false, transparant = false, zacht = false;\n    volgorde.forEach(function(id){ scores[id] = 0; });\n    antwoorden.forEach(function(keuze, i){\n      var o = vragen[i].opties[keuze];\n      if(o.tweeK){ tweeK = true; }\n      if(o.hard === \"transparant\"){ transparant = true; }\n      if(o.hard === \"zacht\"){ zacht = true; }\n      for(var id in o.w){ if(scores.hasOwnProperty(id)){ scores[id] += o.w[id]; } }\n    });\n\n    var lijst = volgorde.map(function(id){ return {id:id, score:scores[id]}; });\n    lijst.sort(function(a,b){ return b.score - a.score; });\n    var hoog = lijst[0].score, laag = lijst[lijst.length-1].score;\n    var bereik = Math.max(hoog - laag, 1);\n    function match(s){ return Math.round(60 + 37 * (s - laag) \/ bereik); }\n\n    var beste = materialen[lijst[0].id];\n    var gelijk = lijst[0].score === lijst[1].score;\n    var h = '<div class=\"op-uitslag\"><h3>This fits your product best<\/h3>';\n\n    if(gelijk){\n      h += '<div class=\"op-letop\"><b>' + lijst[0].id + ' and ' + lijst[1].id + ' score equally.<\/b> ' +\n           'Based on your answers, they both fit equally well. Shape, wall thickness and quantity then tip the balance.<\/div>';\n    }\n\n    if(transparant && zacht){\n      h += '<div class=\"op-letop\"><b>Note: two conflicting requirements.<\/b> Crystal clear and soft isn\u2019t possible in a single material. ' +\n           'TPE and TPU can be translucent, but not as transparent as glass. ' +\n           'If you need both, combine a clear PC base with a soft part via ' +\n           '<a href=\"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/injection-molding\/overmolding\/\">2K injection molding<\/a>.<\/div>';\n    } else if(transparant){\n      h += '<div class=\"op-letop\"><b>Transparency limits the choice.<\/b> Only PC is truly crystal clear. ' +\n           'The alternatives fit your other requirements, but aren\u2019t see-through.<\/div>';\n    }\n    if(tweeK){\n      h += '<div class=\"op-letop\"><b>Two materials in one product.<\/b> The advice below is about the hard base. ' +\n           'The soft part is usually TPE, or TPU if it also needs to be wear-resistant. We make that combination in a single step with ' +\n           '<a href=\"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/injection-molding\/overmolding\/\">2K injection molding<\/a>.<\/div>';\n    }\n\n    h += '<div class=\"op-kaart\"><div class=\"op-kaart-kop\"><span class=\"op-naam\">' + lijst[0].id + '<\/span>' +\n         '<span class=\"op-voluit\">' + beste.voluit + '<\/span>' +\n         '<span class=\"op-match\">' + match(lijst[0].score) + '% match<\/span><\/div>';\n    h += '<p>' + beste.waarom + '<\/p><div class=\"op-eigenschappen\">';\n    eignamen.forEach(function(naam, k){\n      h += '<div class=\"op-rij\"><span class=\"op-label\">' + naam + '<\/span>' + blokjes(beste.props[k]) + '<\/div>';\n    });\n    h += '<\/div><a class=\"op-knop rustig\" href=\"' + beste.url + '\">More about ' + lijst[0].id + '<\/a><\/div>';\n\n    h += '<h3>Also worth considering<\/h3>';\n    [1,2].forEach(function(n){\n      var m = materialen[lijst[n].id];\n      h += '<div class=\"op-alt\"><span class=\"op-naam\">' + lijst[n].id + '<\/span>' +\n           '<span class=\"op-voluit\">' + m.voluit + '<\/span>' +\n           '<span class=\"op-match\">' + match(lijst[n].score) + '% match<\/span>' +\n           '<p class=\"op-reden\">' + m.waarom + ' <a href=\"' + m.url + '\">More about ' + lijst[n].id + '<\/a><\/p><\/div>';\n    });\n\n    h += '<div class=\"op-afsluiter\"><p>Does this also fit your shape, quantities and budget? Send us your drawing or sketch and our engineers will take a look with you.<\/p>' +\n         '<div class=\"op-knoppen\"><a class=\"op-knop\" href=\"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/contact\/\">Submit your product to us<\/a>' +\n         '<button type=\"button\" class=\"op-terug\" id=\"op-opnieuw\">Start over<\/button><\/div><\/div>';\n    h += '<p class=\"op-disclaimer\">This selection guide gives a direction, not a material specification. Properties vary by grade, compound, ' +\n         'additives and application. PVC, for example, comes in a rigid and a flexible variant, with very different properties.<\/p><\/div>';\n\n    scherm.innerHTML = h;\n    document.getElementById(\"op-opnieuw\").addEventListener(\"click\", function(){\n      antwoorden = [];\n      toonVraag(0);\n    });\n  }\n\n  toonVraag(0);\n})();\n<\/script>\n\n<h2 id=\"conclusie\" class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:40px\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Choosing the right plastic starts with the application and the properties the product needs. Strength, flexibility, temperature resistance and chemical resistance are important factors, but the production process and the desired appearance also play a role. By factoring in these factors early in the design, you increase the chance of a product that fits well both technically and in terms of production.<\/p>\n\n<section class=\"wp-block-qi-blocks-columns qodef-gutenberg-section qodef--template qodef-block-3acbbf35 qodef-col-num--1 qodef-col-layout--100 qodef-content--boxed\"><div class=\"qodef-section-background-overlay\"><\/div><div class=\"qodef-gutenberg-row\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-qi-blocks-column qodef-gutenberg-column qodef-block-04379203\"><div class=\"qodef-gutenberg-column-inner\"><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background\" style=\"background-color:#00142c\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color has-large-font-size wp-elements-11\" id=\"uw-product-laten-ontwikkelen\">Want your product developed?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-12 wp-block-paragraph\">Do you have a product idea or want a quick price indication? Get in touch and we&#8217;ll help you right away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-left is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-63375db1 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-fill\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/price-indication\/\" style=\"border-bottom-left-radius:3px;background-color:#f6861f\">Request price indication<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Does it sink or float? Learn to recognize plastic with three practical tests, from the sink test to the burn test.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":15827,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"content-type":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[173,172],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-15945","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-about-injection-molding","category-orange-plastics-news"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15945","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=15945"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15945\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":15956,"href":"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15945\/revisions\/15956"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/15827"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=15945"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=15945"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/orangeplastics.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=15945"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}