MattPolaris
Mechanical
- Sep 25, 2011
- 2
Can someone suggest a material for me please...
I need to make a small 50mm long flexible leaf spring that is used outdoors (UV stabilized/resistant) and it has to be a thermoplastic (injection molded/formed) with a life of 2 years+.
I have been researching this material choice for a few weeks now, but so far a clear winner has eluded my thinking.
To date:
1) ABS - cost effective, drawback is only black seems to be UV stabilized (variable colour is critically important - it's part of a safety mechanism)
2) HDPE - not so cost effective - not sure if it can be UV stabilized
3) Polypropylene - again black and not as well suited to spring characteristics
I have tested ABS and this is suitable in all respects except the UV resistant colour - anyone know if it can be UV stabilized and colour pigmented say orange , green or left as white.
Would very much appreciate anyone with experience giving me their input.
I need to make a small 50mm long flexible leaf spring that is used outdoors (UV stabilized/resistant) and it has to be a thermoplastic (injection molded/formed) with a life of 2 years+.
I have been researching this material choice for a few weeks now, but so far a clear winner has eluded my thinking.
To date:
1) ABS - cost effective, drawback is only black seems to be UV stabilized (variable colour is critically important - it's part of a safety mechanism)
2) HDPE - not so cost effective - not sure if it can be UV stabilized
3) Polypropylene - again black and not as well suited to spring characteristics
I have tested ABS and this is suitable in all respects except the UV resistant colour - anyone know if it can be UV stabilized and colour pigmented say orange , green or left as white.
Would very much appreciate anyone with experience giving me their input.