New Distrupol comparator card gets tough

“Tough and Strong” is the title of the latest polymer comparator card from Distrupol, Europe’s leading polymer distributor. A further addition to an ever-growing toolbox of aids for designer and moulders, the new card covers the range of tough and super tough materials offered by the company, which are suitable for the most demanding applications and environments.

By providing a clear and easy-to-follow comparison of the polymers’ key parameters, the card simplifies and speeds up the material selection process, and is seen as particularly valuable for those considering the use of polymers for the first time. The “Tough and Strong” card, as well as earlier publications from the comparator card series, are available from www.distrupol.com or through the regional Distrupol representatives.

The mechanical properties of polymers are commonly defined by their strength and toughness; essential performance criteria, particularly in the area of metal replacement. Among the definitions of strength are the material’s tensile strength when stretched or under tension; its flexural or torsional strength when bent or twisted; or its impact strength.

“Strength is measured by the force needed to break a sample. Toughness, on the other hand, measures the energy required to break a sample using a blow,” explains Distrupol polymer engineer Sean Dunkley, Key Account and Marketing Manager at Distrupol. “Yet the two don’t always go hand-in-hand: just because a material is strong, it isn't necessarily going to be tough as well.”

Distrupol uses its latest card to compare toughness and stiffness by showing the general flexural properties of various toughened grades relative to their impact properties. Similarly, the general tensile properties of such grades are measured against their elongational properties. Providing further benefit to the user, the card evaluates the relative final cost of the toughened grades in terms of their density, cycle times, processing time, drying requirements, among other factors.

Because the Distrupol portfolio embraces a vast range of toughened plastics, the card significantly reduces the time otherwise taken in reviewing and comparing separate material data. According to Sean Dunkley: “This provides a unique advantage as most polymer producers provide data only in respect of their own materials, whereas we can provide our customers with a comprehensive across-the-board comparison.”