Polypropylene Plastic Extrusions

Material Update:
The global availability of Polypropylene is currently limited due to damaged production resources in the supply chain. Because we work with multiple suppliers as a normal business practice, we have numerous options that can be a great (or sometimes superior) substitute. We’re happy to walk you through the possibilities! Call us today to discuss your needs & let us find a material solution for you.

Polypropylene Plastic Extrusions

What is Polypropylene?

Polypropylene (PP) is a versatile thermoplastic polymer that is often the chosen material for plastic extrusions due to its low cost, heat resistance, flexibility, customizability and strength. Available as a natural colored, colorable compound.

Polypropylene (PP) #5 Plastic Extrusions

PP (Polypropylene) #5 is a widely used polyolefin, resistant to cracking, acids and organic solvents, with good dielectric properties.

Polypropylene Properties

  • Increased toughness over Polyethylene (PE) #4
  • Max temperature: 180 - 240 °F (PP #5 doesn’t melt until about 320 °F.)
  • Offers excellent electrical and heat resistance

The two main grades of polypropylene used for plastic extrusions are homo-polymer and co-polymer. Polypropylene co-polymers are slightly softer than homo-polymers, but still tend to be more durable. Fillers boost stiffness to be competitive with other polymeric materials, extending use and versatility.

  • Homo-polymer strong stiff plastic that can be welded and offers excellent fatigue resistance
  • Co-polymer — tends to be more durable offering better impact and stress resistance (more suitable for uses at lower temperatures)

Advantages of Polypropylene

  • Low Cost of Extrusion (relatively inexpensive material)
  • High Flexural Strength (due to its semi-crystalline nature)
  • Low Coefficient of Thermal Expansion 

Polypropylene Extrusions

Common uses include luggage, microwavable food containers, cutting boards, window components, fodder systems and medical applications.

PROPERTYTYPICAL VALUEUNITSASTM METHOD
PHYSICAL
Rockwell Hardness 80R scaleD-785
Specific Gravity 0.90D-782
Melt Flow Rate (230°C, 2.16 kg) 0.45g/10 minD-1238
MECHANICAL
Flexural Modulus 162,000psiD-790 A
Tensile Strength @ Yield 4,060psiD-638
Tensile Elongation @ Yield 11%D-638
Notched Izod Impact @ 23°C No breakft-lb/inD-256
THERMAL
Heat Deflection Temp: 0.125 @ 66 psi 190°FD-648
Heat Deflection Temp: 0.125 @ 264 psi 124°FD-648
Coefficient of Linear Thermal Expansion 6.6 x 10^-5in/in/°FD-696
FLAMMABILITY
Flame Rating - UL at 0.0394" HBUL94

The information provided above is based on typical values, and is believed to be reliable. No warranty is given as to the suitability of the product for a particular application. Determination of the suitability of this product for any use is solely the responsibility of the user.