Choose the property you need before choosing a trade name: stiffness, temperature, friction, impact, or chemical compatibility.
Material overview
Engineering plastics include many grades of ABS, polycarbonate, PTFE, PEEK, and filled compounds. These are not interchangeable. Reinforcement can alter stiffness, wear behavior, and machining effort. A generic family name may hide substantial differences between grades and stock forms.
Where it fits
Polycarbonate is often considered for impact behavior, PTFE for selected low-friction and chemical applications, and PEEK for demanding temperature or chemical conditions. These are material-selection directions rather than application approvals. Exact grade data and service conditions govern suitability.
Design considerations
Compare moisture uptake, thermal expansion, creep, and notch sensitivity. A material with high temperature capability can still be a poor choice for a thin snap feature or an economical prototype. Tight tolerances are particularly sensitive to stock stability and measurement conditions.
KRC ordering route
Unlisted plastics use custom RFQ. Include the exact grade, stock form, quantity, and dimensional requirements. This educational page does not imply that every listed polymer is stocked, instantly quotable, or suitable for the same machining geometry.
Ensinger: dimensional stability