Design Tips
Skillful design ensures:
- Less expensive tooling
- Lower cost per foot
- Reduced time from inception to delivery
- Minimal quality issues during production
Even Wall Thickness
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Profiles need an even wall thickness throughout.
Large differences can cause unequal material flow through the tool which distorts the profile.
Material will also cool at different rates, causing bowing of the finished extrusion.
Avoid Detail in Hollow Section
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Hollow extrusions (tubes) are made using a vacuum former.
Internal detail should be kept to a minimum since it is difficult to control during production.
Complex detail can be achieved if the profile is opened up, no longer requiring the vacuum.
Hollows within hollows should be avoided.
Radius
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Radii should be as large as possible.
Inside radii should be a minimum of .010” and outside corners should be no less than .020” to eliminate the possibility of notching and cracking in the corners.
Tolerances
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Plastic profiles with strict tolerances are difficult to produce because thermoplastics expand and contract at different temperatures.
Greater accuracy is possible if lengths are cut off-line, but it adds cost. A typical length tolerance for extrusions would be +/- 1/16”. Longer lengths would have a greater tolerance.
Choosing Clear Materials
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If clarity is the overriding requirement, wall thickness should be kept to a minimum in any material. There are several plastics that give a clear finish.
Transparent PVC is generally least expensive and suitable for many applications, though not as clear as glass.
Acrylic and PETG (Provista) offer very good clarity; however, profiles need to be relatively simple. Polycarbonate is best for strength and rigidity.
Die lines may be present in clear extruded materials.
Fit and Function – Mating Parts
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Custom plastic extrusions often need to fit mating parts, such as metal frames, a board or end-caps.
Whenever possible, provide these mating parts to ensure your profile fits and functions properly.
