Free tool

Material Selector

Use seven inputs to explore up to three plastic families in a simplified screening model. These are candidates to investigate, not approved materials. For context, see our material selection guide.

Continuous service temperature: up to 80 °C (indoor, ambient) Impact resistance needed: moderate Stiffness needed: moderate

Chemical / fuel exposure Outdoor / UV exposure Food contact required Must be transparent

#1 PP (Polypropylene) Containers and flexible hinges; check grade and hinge design. Model temperature threshold: ~100 °C · relative cost assumption € Screening candidate only. Verify the actual grade, temperature, exposure and any food-contact requirements with its supplier.#2 PBT (Polybutylene terephthalate) A family to investigate for electrical components. Model temperature threshold: ~130 °C · relative cost assumption €€€ Screening candidate only. Verify the actual grade, temperature, exposure and any food-contact requirements with its supplier.#3 PS / HIPS (Polystyrene) PS and HIPS differ in transparency and impact behaviour. Model temperature threshold: ~80 °C · relative cost assumption € Screening candidate only. Verify the actual grade, temperature, exposure and any food-contact requirements with its supplier.

Before you commit

Qualify the actual resin grade for the part, environment, loads and manufacturing process. Check the supplier datasheet and relevant compliance documents, including food contact where needed. A family name or a checked input does not establish approval.

How does this screening model work?

The model filters a fixed list using temperature, transparency and a simplified food-contact flag. That flag only narrows the list; it does not check a grade, migration testing or intended contact conditions. It then weights impact and stiffness similarity, chemical and UV assumptions, relative cost and temperature headroom, and shows up to three results. It does not model creep, fatigue, chemical concentration, additives, processing or regulatory approval. A missing result means no match in this small model, not that no suitable grade exists.

Model version 1: simplified family-level assumptions, not a validated grade database or a comparison of current supplier datasheets. Temperature values and cost levels are model inputs, not guaranteed service limits or prices. The order of results is a heuristic, not evidence that a material is suitable.

Want a material recommendation with your quotation? Send Nordmould your part requirements.