Frequently Asked Questions

A: For high-volume jobs and fast turnaround times, Polymershapers offers CNC/Laser processing at many of our facilities. CNC, or Computerized Numeric Control, production saws allow us to stack numerous sheets of plastic and shape all of them at the same time. The laser cutting offers tight tolerances and precision, but the job goes quickly due to our ability to stack multiple pieces of plastic. This method not only optimizes turnaround time, but also reduces waste and cuts costs.

Inquire about the possibility of engraving, laser cutting, and routing. For your project, we can make use of our computerized panel saws and other pieces of top-of-the-line equipment.

A: Thermoforming is a state-of-the-art method that, in essence, allows us to heat up a sheet of plastic, making it pliable and easy to mold. It’s a bit like vacuum forming.

We heat the plastic sheet in question until it reaches a malleable state. From there, we stretch it over the correct mold with the help of a vacuum. This method of plastic fabrication is helpful with the creation of prototypes and other samples. It’s a speedy way to create similar parts with exquisite details.

Thin-gauge thermoforming is ideal for small plastic pieces, such as blister packs, containers, disposable cups, and various other industries. Thick-gauge thermoforming is well-suited to automobile parts, such as doors, dashboards, fridge liners, plastic panels, and similar pieces.

A: High-density polyethylene is among the most sustainable plastics in Los Angeles. It’s environmentally friendly, 100% recyclable, and durable with a lifespan of over 50 years, enabling it to resist wear while reducing emissions and waste. These qualities make it ideal for water/food storage and other applications.

A: Some of the most durable plastics include polycarbonate, acrylic, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), and nylon. Along with being highly durable, polycarbonate is highly transparent, acrylic is relatively inexpensive and quick to fabricate, HDPE is weather-resistant, PEEK is resistant to high temperatures, and nylon is lightweight.

A: Additive manufacturing, or three-dimensional printing, is among the most cost-effective and accessible injection molding alternatives. It’s the best option for medium to low production and involves utilizing digital models to create layers of parts using materials like plastics.

A: Thermoforming is exceptionally cost-effective due to minimal tooling costs and high material efficiency, which reduces waste and contributes to sustainability. A disadvantage of thermoforming is that it’s limited to producing objects with thin wall designs. Other challenges include limitations when it comes to producing parts with complicated geometries, as well as uneven thickness.

A: No, Lexan is more expensive than plexiglass due to its superior durability and impact resistance. When comparing Lexan vs. plexiglass, note that both options withstand greater impacts compared to glass, but Lexan is stronger, so it won’t crack. Instead, Lexan bends.

A: The best plastic manufacturing companies in Los Angeles offer a wide variety of services (e.g., thermoforming, CNC/laser processing, computer-aided design and programming, and acrylic fabrication), extensive industry experience (e.g., aerospace, oil & gas, automotive, and building & construction), and a proven record of success with clients, revealing reliability and a client-first mindset.

A: Yes, we fabricate a wide range of automotive plastic parts, including dashboards, lenses, trim, housing, and more. We use a wide range of materials, like acrylic, polycarbonate, and ABS, to make components for vehicles that are durable, lightweight, and, unlike metal, corrosion-resistant. Our team also supports CAD design and advanced fabrication.

A: We sure do. A large portion of our work is fabricating aerospace-grade components from advanced polymers like PEEK, Ultem, and polycarbonate. These plastics offer greater value for these applications, thanks to their high strength-to-weight ratio, chemical resistance, and ability to withstand the most extreme conditions.

A: Some of our most highly used plastics for semiconductor applications include ECTFE, PPS, ECTFE, and phenolic resins. These materials are some of the best in terms of heat-resistance, chemical-resistance, and static sensitivity.