Recent volatility in the price of oil, the main feedstock for plastics production, has reignited a debate among processors: when is it advisable to replace one resin with another to reduce costs?

On one hand, over-engineering can erode a product’s contribution margin. This happens when a design specifies a high-performance polymer—polyamide or polycarbonate—when polypropylene or modified ABS would provide the same part stability.

On the other hand, simply replacing a material sometimes overlooks the system’s “hidden costs,” as it may require additional tooling, mold modifications, longer cycle times and higher defect rates.

There is no right or wrong side to this issue. The discussion should always focus on specifying the material that offers the best solution for a particular application.

With information from Mundo do Plástico.