Our study methodology

To obtain a final product conform to expectations, it is important to draft specifications that describe the expected properties in as much detail as possible:

• Product dimensions and tolerances, generally specified on a drawing;
• Dimension inspection drawing;
• The expected function and therefore the properties of the material to be used, flexible or rigid;
• Part operating conditions: mechanical stress, temperature, UV exposure, chemical resistance, trim profiles, transparency, colour, expected lifetime;
• Specific requirements, particularly regarding compliance with standards in fields such as food safety, Pharmacopeia, fire, FMVSS, fume, ACS or PMUC standards, as well as norms applicable to the aeronautical and car industries, etc., directives or regulations such as RoHs, REACH;
•  Packaging specifications, in lengths, on reels or rolls, double-bagged;
•  Marking specifications;
• Volumes of the production runs envisaged.
Once these properties have been defined, one or more materials may be selected in collaboration with the client, according to criteria such as cost, availability and suitability for transformation.
A tool study is conducted in collaboration with a specialised tool manufacturer partner.
The quote can then be presented to the client.

General design advice

• Ensure that the wall thickness is as regular as possible. Large variations in thickness make development more difficult and the risk of profile deformation is much higher.
•  Take into account the possible dimensional variations of the plastic materials under the effects of temperature and humidity when defining product dimension tolerances.
• Take into account possible post-cut retraction in length tolerances.
• Generally speaking, be aware that the tolerances on an extruded plastic product cannot be compared with those used in mechanics.
• Prioritise the constraints faced by the product in order to identify the most suitable material.