Resins form the foundation of all plastic materials, typically produced through the thermal cracking of hydrocarbons. As a synthetic material, resins have transformed industries, commercial spaces, and households over the last few decades. However, with global environmental regulations becoming stricter, it's now more important than ever that the plastics we produce and use are biodegradable and meet legal standards for waste management. One significant step in this direction is the use of recycled resins. This not only benefits the environment but also plays a crucial role in the success of plastic manufacturers, suppliers, and end users alike. In this post, we’ll explore the basics of recycled resins and their growing use in injection molding.
Why Use Recycled Resins?
So, what exactly are recycled resins? They are derived from used plastic, often referred to as Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) resin. While there are challenges involved in the recycling process, using these materials helps create eco-friendly plastics and offers numerous advantages. Here are some of the key benefits:
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- Reduces the need for fossil fuels in producing new plastic.
- Helps cut down on non-biodegradable waste generated by humans.
- Contributes to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
- Helps resin manufacturers save costs and build a reputation as environmentally responsible businesses.
- Can lead to cost savings and increased profitability.
- Offers performance comparable to virgin plastic in terms of quality.
Environmental Benefits of Recycled Resins
According to a study by Franklin Associates in the U.S., the use of recycled plastics can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 25% compared to virgin plastic. This makes it essential for consumers to choose products made from recycled resins. Additionally, virgin plastics can take over 500 years to decompose, contributing heavily to landfill problems. A simple solution is for more suppliers to source regrind resins and collaborate with individuals or businesses looking to sell used plastics. Commonly recyclable resins include:
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- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
- Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)
- Polypropylene (PP)
- Polystyrene (PS)
- High-density polyethylene (HDPE)
- Low-density polyethylene (LDPE)
Benefits of Using Recycled Resins for Injection Molding
Injection molding is a widely used technique in the polymer industry, where molten material is injected into a mold and solidifies into the desired shape. This process allows for the mass production of identical parts. Over recent years, many original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and plastic producers have shown interest in using recycled resins for injection molding. The following advantages have contributed to its growing popularity among molders:
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- Recycled resins perform just as well as virgin plastic, with no noticeable difference in product quality.
- Requires fewer raw materials when used in injection molding or other industrial processes.
- Enables a closed-loop system where recycled components are reused to create new parts in-house.
- Helps reduce overall costs and protects against fluctuations in petrochemical prices.
- Allows companies to partner with local customers or communities to collect used plastics, preventing them from ending up in landfills.
In summary, the increasing adoption of recycled resins by plastic manufacturers and end users highlights their value and long-term benefits. As demand grows, economies of scale will likely drive down costs even further. However, it’s important to source regrind resins from a trusted supplier. MidContinent Plastics is a leading provider of recycled resins for injection molding, with over three decades of experience in the market. They offer a wide range of recycled resins, including ABS, Cellulosics, Nylon 66, MPR, Polyetherimide, Polyphenylene sulfide, and more.
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