Thermoplastics shape the world around us. From food containers to aerospace components, they’re behind countless products we use every day. Their ability to melt, mold, and solidify repeatedly gives manufacturers the flexibility to create everything from durable industrial parts to lightweight packaging.
At QTM, we work with manufacturers across a wide range of industries to match the right thermoplastic resin to each unique application. Whether you need a simple material for a high-volume run or a high-performance resin that can stand up to heat, chemicals, or mechanical stress, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s take a closer look at how thermoplastics are classified – and where each type fits best.
What Makes a Thermoplastic?
Unlike thermosets, which harden permanently after curing, thermoplastics can be reheated and reshaped without losing integrity. This makes them not only versatile but also recyclable – a major advantage for sustainability goals.
Thermoplastics are used in a range of processes, including injection molding, blow molding, and extrusion. At QTM, we help customers identify which material best suits their equipment, performance requirements, and budget. With decades of hands-on experience, our team supports everything from first-time resin trials to large-scale production runs.
Breaking Down the Categories
Not all thermoplastics perform the same. Some offer low-cost versatility, while others deliver precise mechanical strength or superior heat resistance. Understanding the key categories makes it easier to choose the right material for your needs.
- Commodity Thermoplastics
Looking for materials that are affordable and easy to process? Commodity thermoplastics are often the go-to for everyday applications. Think:
- Polyethylene (PE)
- Polypropylene (PP)
- Polystyrene (PS)
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
- High-Impact Polystyrene (HIPS)
- Low/High/Linear Low-Density and High Molecular Weight Polyethylenes (LDPE, HDPE, LLDPE, HMW)
Used in packaging, containers, and basic consumer products, these resins are available in high volumes and come with reliable performance. QTM stocks a robust supply to keep your projects moving without delay.
- Engineering Thermoplastics
When durability matters more than price, engineering thermoplastics offer a strong middle ground. These resins are tougher, more heat-resistant, and built to last. Some of the most common include:
- ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
- Polycarbonate (PC)
- Nylon (Polyamide, PA)
- PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate)
- Acetal (POM)
Ideal for automotive components, electrical housings, and appliance parts, engineering plastics deliver a solid balance of performance and processability. QTM offers these in both reinforced and unfilled grades, with expert guidance to help you dial in the right specs.
- High-Performance Thermoplastics
Need something that can handle extreme heat, stress, or chemicals? High-performance thermoplastics step in where others fall short. They’re designed for the most demanding environments and include:
- PEEK (Polyetheretherketone)
- PPS (Polyphenylene Sulfide)
- PEI (Polyetherimide)
- PPA (Polyphthalamide)
- PES (Polysulfone)
- PPO (Polyphenylene Oxide)
These materials are staples in aerospace, medical, and high-end electronic applications. QTM supports engineers with access to specialty grades and technical insight to help meet tight tolerances and complex design requirements.
- Specialty and Sustainable Options
Beyond the core categories, there are plenty of specialized and sustainable materials worth exploring. Acrylic (PMMA), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), and ionomers serve niche applications where things like clarity, flexibility, or softness matter.
For teams focused on environmental impact, recycled resin options are gaining traction fast. QTM is proud to offer sustainable materials that meet recognized standards like the Recycled Content Standard (RCS) and Global Recycled Standard (GRS). These materials perform reliably while helping customers meet their environmental commitments.
Choosing the Right Fit
Selecting a thermoplastic isn’t just about heat resistance or tensile strength. Chemical compatibility, part geometry, process conditions, regulatory requirements, and cost all factor into the decision.
That’s why our technical team takes the time to understand your goals and constraints. We provide material recommendations tailored to your application, whether you’re building a medical housing or looking for food-safe packaging. Need help with processing? We also provide molding guidelines, custom compounds, and on-site support when you need it.
Your Partner in Performance
QTM is committed to helping make your project successful. With more than 125 years of combined industry experience, our team works side by side with customers to get materials right from the start.
We offer:
- A wide selection of commodity, engineering, and high-performance thermoplastics
- Custom polymer compounding services
- Technical support from selection to processing
- Just-in-time shipping and flexible inventory solutions
Smart materials. Fast answers. Real results. That’s what sets QTM apart.
Expanded Facility, Expanded Possibilities
To better serve our customers, QTM recently expanded into a brand-new 65,500-square-foot facility in Placentia, California. Just two miles from our previous headquarters, the upgraded location features on-site rail service, seven dock-high loading doors, and four ground-level bays.
With more space, improved logistics, and the ability to handle bulk resin shipments more efficiently, we’re raising the bar for service and speed. The expansion also includes the addition of bulk delivery trucks, allowing us to offer faster turnaround and more competitive delivery options – especially for high-volume projects.
This move reflects our ongoing growth and commitment to meeting evolving customer needs.
Let’s Find Your Material Match
Understanding the differences between thermoplastics is the first step. Getting the right one into your process? That’s where QTM can help.
Reach out to our team to talk through your project needs, request a quote, or explore sample materials. We’re here to make sourcing plastics simpler, smarter, and more efficient – no matter the scale.
