Material Selection 101: Matching Plastics to Applications

When designing a new plastic extrusion, the choice of material can make all the difference. The right resin determines everything from flexibility and UV resistance to cost and appearance.

At Lincoln Plastics, we work closely with customers to ensure that material choices align with the extrusion process and performance goals — while leaving final resin selection to the experts: material suppliers and spec sheets.

Here’s how we help OEMs think through material considerations the right way.

1️⃣ Start with the Application

The first question isn’t “what plastic should I use?” — it’s “what will this part do?”
Consider the environment, temperature, exposure, and expected wear. Whether it’s outdoors, under load, or part of an electrical system, the application drives the material conversation.

2️⃣ Understand Key Performance Factors

Different plastics excel in different ways. While material suppliers provide the detailed data, Lincoln Plastics helps customers interpret those factors in practical terms, such as:

• Flexibility or rigidity requirements
• Impact or abrasion resistance
• UV and weather exposure
• Chemical compatibility
• Appearance and color needs

Our team offers real-world feedback based on how materials perform during extrusion and downstream handling.

3️⃣ Consult Reliable Data Sources

We always encourage customers to review resin supplier data sheets or trusted online databases like UL Prospector, MatWeb, or individual manufacturer sites. These resources provide detailed mechanical, thermal, and environmental ratings that guide the right choice for your application.

We can help you interpret that data in the context of extrusion performance — ensuring the resin you choose processes efficiently and produces a high-quality part.

4️⃣ Consider Processing and Efficiency

Even within the same family of plastics, some resins extrude more cleanly or require less setup time. By collaborating early, we can share insight on processing behavior, cooling, and consistency, helping you balance performance with production efficiency.

5️⃣ Keep Long-Term Cost in View

Sometimes a higher-cost resin offers a better overall return through improved durability, reduced maintenance, or fewer replacements. The right choice is the one that meets your performance needs and lifecycle cost goals.

A Balanced Approach to Material Selection

Selecting the right plastic is a team effort. Customers know their applications best, material suppliers provide the data, and Lincoln Plastics brings decades of processing experience to ensure every extrusion runs reliably and consistently.

Together, we build products that perform the way they should — from material to finished profile.

Contact us today to discuss your next extrusion project.

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