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Plastic FAQ

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Plastic Operations Brochure
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Plastic Frequently Asked questions

There are a variety of methods used to process plastic. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages and are better suited for specific applications. These methods include: injection molding, blow molding, thermoforming, transfer molding, reaction injection molding, compression molding, and extrusion.

In the early stage of your project, WDS will help you identify the best method. If that best method is not an option at WDS we will be upfront and honest. We offer vacuum thermoforming and pressure forming, along with other pre-draw or plug assists such as snap-back forming and billow forming to minimize material thinning and increase pressure, drape forming and matched mold forming.

Our complete thermoforming capabilities give us the diversity to complete your part in-house from concept design to final delivery. The adjacent 2 minute YouTube lesson will help you understand the basic principle behind thermoforming.

The experienced team at WDS will work with you to evaluate your project and determine the best type of material to yield the desired outcome.

One type of material does not fit all applications. WDS can thermoform: ABS, ABSPC, TPO, PVC, Polyethylene including HDPE, LDPE & HMWPE, HIPS / Polystyrene, Polypropylene, Moldable seamless PVC upholstery materials, Vinyl Clad Urethane for automotive soft trim, Plexiglas® (clear acrylic)

WDS can accommodate any requirement you may have for both thin and heavy gauge materials ranging from .005" to .500". The finished thickness depends on the part design.

We understand the issues that determine the right material for practically any application, and will do what it takes to help specify the right material for the job. Exterior Weatherable (UV-resistant), UL Fire Rated, food grade, heat deflection, stiffness, gloss control, chemical or scratch resistant... Decorative metallic, clear or any color and texture.

Combinations of 100% custom color virgin, virgin cap/utility base, low gloss (matte) cap/utility base, and custom color cap/utility base are available.

Starting at 500 pounds, WDS can provide a full color palette with no variations, so your color is your color wherever it appears.

If you know the precise color you are matching by Pantone let us know. Otherwise, send a sample and we will have it matched.

Early stage and small to mid-size companies face issues when they need smaller volumes in new product ramp-up. WDS recognizes this dilemma and can fit that small to medium volume market. Of course, WDS can meet large production runs as well.

For smaller volume and new product ramp-up on the plastics side, WDS utilizes in house sheet goods and stock materials available thru distribution such as KYDEX®, Plexiglas®, POLYONE™ Royalite™, POLYONE™ WeatherPro™, Primex Prime ABS.

At WDS, we work efficiently to get your product out the door quickly. A typical project can take anywhere between two to ten weeks to start production. However, lead times can vary depending on the project complexity, the raw material lead time and requirements of each customer. Some extensive projects have taken months to get to final production while our regular customers can usually see a one to two week turnaround on a repeat order. The best way to determine what your lead time will be is to contact us regarding your project. The WDS team will work closely with you to understand your time constraints and do everything possible to meet or exceed your expectations.