Plastic Extrusion Manufacturers: What to Look For

Plastic extrusion is a complex process that plays a crucial role in a plethora of industries, from automotive to packaging, construction to consumer goods. Picking the right manufacturer can seem like a tough task, but it’s actually easier than you’d think!

Below is more information about what plastic extrusion is, what to look for in a plastic extrusion manufacturer, and why E&C is the right choice to meet your needs.

About Plastic Extrusion

Plastic extrusion is a manufacturing process that involves the melting and shaping of raw plastic to create continuous pieces. Extrusion is used to produce items that include piping, tubing, LED lighting, Retail and POP signage, Solar, OEM Markets, decking, and fencing.

The field of extrusion encompasses a variety of different options that meet specific needs. To better understand what you might need, consider the following types of extrusion:

Profile Extrusion - A type of extrusion that produces shaped products with various possible forms is called profile extrusion. This does not involve the creation of film or sheet products.

Sheet Extrusion - Sheet extrusion is the process used to produce plastic sheets and films. The films and sheets can then be cut to exact sizes.

Tube Extrusion – The process of tube extrusion involves pushing the extruded polymer through a round die and a vacuum calibrator/water tank to form a tube. The tubes can be either cut to specific lengths or coiled on our machines. E&C has a large selection of stock tubing tools. If you need a different size than what we have, we can easily modify an existing size to suit your needs at no extra charge!

Co-Extrusion - Co-extrusion is a technique that produces a product with two different textures by extruding one material and filling it with another simultaneously. The result is a single product that combines both materials.

What to Look For

Now that you know more about what plastic extrusion is and the different types of extrusion, let’s look at the important factors you should be considering when choosing the right plastic extrusion manufacturer.

Below are some key factors you need to take into consideration before hiring a plastic extrusion manufacturer to meet your extrusion needs…

Quality

Quality is one of the most important things to look for in any product or service provider. A top-tier plastic extrusion manufacturer is able to provide high-quality products consistently. Look for companies that always provide the best plastic extrusion products and don’t accept any less than the best.

State-of-the-Art Technology

The best plastic extrusion manufacturers aren’t stuck in the 90s. They continually update their machinery and leverage the latest technology to maintain efficiency and precision in their operations. Look for a manufacturer with modern, computer-aided technology. This way, you can be assured that you are getting the best products possible.

Custom Solutions

Every business has unique needs, and the “one size fits all” approach doesn't cut it. You need a manufacturer capable of offering custom solutions tailored to your specific needs. Whether you need a unique shape, a particular plastic type, or a complex extrusion profile, your chosen manufacturer should be able to accommodate these requirements.

Sustainability

You want to work with a manufacturer that respects and prioritizes sustainability. Look for companies implementing eco-friendly practices and following waste reduction strategies. This way, you contribute positively to the environment while meeting your business needs.

Stellar Customer Service

No one likes dealing with bad customer service. In the world of plastic extrusion manufacturing, service quality can make or break a business relationship. Look for manufacturers with a reputation for being responsive, communicative, and genuinely helpful. If they care about your business, it shows they're in it for the long haul.

A Proven Track Record

Last but definitely not least, you want to work with a manufacturer that has a proven track record. A long-standing, positive reputation is a great indicator of the manufacturer's reliability and ability to deliver as promised. Do your research, ask for references, and read testimonials.

You Now Know What to Look For!

Selecting the right plastic extrusion manufacturer doesn't have to be a daunting task. Focus on these key areas: quality assurance, technological prowess, customization abilities, environmental responsibility, customer service, and a solid track record. With this checklist in mind, you're well on your way to partnering with the right manufacturer that will align with your business objectives.

To skip all of this work, you can simply partner with the best plastic extrusion manufacturer in the business—E&C.