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Advantages and Disadvantages of Kostrate® and Polycarbonate

Advantages of Kostrate plastic for food containers

When you’re producing a product that will store or transfer food and beverages, knowing the disadvantages and advantages of Kostrate® and clear polycarbonate can help you make an informed decision.

Advantages of Kostrate® and Clear Polycarbonate for Injection and Blow Molding:

  • Mold Release
  • Lubricated
  • Dimensional Stability
  • Impact Resistance
  • Processability
  • Heat Resistance
  • Viscosity

Advantages of Kostrate® and Clear Polycarbonate for Plastic Product Specification:

  • Solvent adhesive and hot air plastic welds can be used
  • Strength at varying temperature.
  • Visually clear
  • Heat strength
  • Flame Retardant
  • RoHS Compliant
  • Low / Free BPA

A Few Polycarbonate Uses Include:

Appliance components, bottles, electronic applications, food applications, lighting fixtures, medical devices, outdoor applications, packaging, sporting goods, tools, wire and cable applications, writing instruments. Because of its low BPA and reduced concern of toxicity, clear polycarbonate is used in many food and beverage containers and packaging.

Some Uses for Kostrate® Include:

Uses for Kostrate® are all of the above with an even higher demand for food packaging, beverage bottles and food storage products. Kostrate® is also used for housewares, paper, soap dispensers, office products and more. It is also becoming a popular choice for infant and toddler toys made entirely of plastic and those that have plastic components. Toy designers and developers appreciate the safety and security the BPA free plastic offers, especially for toys that may find their way into children’s mouths.

Disadvantages of Kostrate®:

  • Minor odor (which can be addressed during processing)
  • Heat distortion temperature
  • Scratching
  • Lower Rockwell Hardness

Disadvantages of Clear Polycarbonate:

  • Can be subject to stress cracking
  • High processing temperatures required
  • Degrades upon extended residence time in processing equipment
  • Only fair chemical resistance is only fair
  • Aromatic sensitivity
  • Yellowing over time

There are many plastic resin options available when injection or blow molding manufactured parts. The considerations vary depending on the end use of your product. For the highest success, research the properties of each plastic, the expense, life span, heat capabilities, and strength before you hit the injection molding or blow molding manufacturing phase.

Give us a call today to discuss best options for your custom product. SPI Injection Molding located in Indiana and SPI Blow Molding in Michigan provide engineering and molding services throughout the mid-west. Our mold and production experts understand the advantages of Kostrate® for food safe products and the advantages and disadvantages of many other plastic resins best suited for specific products and their use.

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