The Reason Why Sheet Metal Parts Are Gradually Replaced By Thermoplastic Plastics

1. Plastic is lighter than metal

Plastic is much lighter than metal, and it is also very strong and durable. Therefore, many cars are currently using plastic parts instead of sheet metal parts. On the one hand, it can reduce the weight, on the other hand, the cost is lower, and the maintenance cost in the later period is also lower. Of course, the extensive use of plastic parts will bring about safety controversies. According to the automotive industry, the current safety of automobiles is mainly determined by the frame, and the influence of body panels is relatively small. At the same time, because plastic can be deformed, it has the effect of absorbing energy and can play a buffering role, while metal directly transmits energy to passengers.

2. Plastic is cheaper than metal

If you use the stamping process to process metal parts, you need to use molds. The production cost of the mold is high and the cycle is long. If it is a process such as bending and welding, a large amount of labor is required to operate the machine. Although thermoforming plastics also require molds, they are less expensive than stamping molds and have a lower production cycle. In addition, when using CNC to process parts, plastic parts are also cheaper than sheet metal parts.

In addition, sheet metal parts are heavier than plastic parts, and transportation costs are higher. Therefore, in a comprehensive comparison, the cost of plastic parts is lower.

3. The manufacturing cycle of plastics is shorter than that of metals

If only small batches of prototypes are produced, the sheet metal process is faster. But when mass production is required, thermoforming will be faster. First of all, in terms of mold manufacturing, the mold for thermoplastic molding can be completed in only 2-4 weeks, and the stamping mold takes about 8-12 weeks.

4. Plastic is easier to shape than metal

In terms of shaping ability, thermoplastic molding has a higher degree of flexibility. Only molds can be manufactured, and plastics can be molded. Plastics are better than metals in bending, complex surfaces, deep drawing and complex cutting.

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