▲ Four types of transparent resin handled by Technoplast Thailand

Technoplast (Thailand) offers a wide range of resin materials, boasting one of the most extensive lineups among resin machining factories in Thailand. Materials such as PC, AC, PET, and PVC, commonly classified as 'transparent resins,' are in high demand in Thailand, leading to numerous inquiries. Each material has its own strengths and is suited to different types of processing, making it essential to choose the most appropriate material based on the intended use. In this article, we will introduce four representative types of transparent resins that we handle, detailing their characteristics and offering tips on how to select the right one.

■ PC (Polycarbonate)
Exceptional Durability and Transparency Achieved Through Proprietary Technology

This is a type of thermoplastic engineering plastic, and among the four types introduced here, it has the highest strength, along with excellent heat resistance and transparency. Compared to acrylic, it has approximately 50 times the impact resistance, and its transparency is said to be nearly equivalent to that of glass. However, it has some drawbacks, such as difficulty in bonding and the need for advanced techniques for bending. Its high cost means it is primarily used in Thailand for applications requiring significant durability, such as machinery and equipment covers. Despite challenges in achieving transparency after machining, our proprietary technology allows us to attain high levels of clarity with this material. Utilizing craftsmanship honed in Japan, Technoplast applies its plastic (resin) machining expertise here in Thailand!

▲ Samples of processed products using PC

＜Main applications＞
Jig bases, machine parts, equipment covers

■ AC (Acrylic) | Good Machinability and Cost-Effective

Among transparent resins, acrylic is the most cost-effective. Its high transparency and excellent machinability make it one of the most widely used general-purpose plastics across various fields. In Thailand, acrylic is commonly used for equipment and machinery covers, trade show displays, and aquariums.

▲ Samples of processed products using acrylic

In general, transparent resins often lose their clarity at machined areas, resulting in a cloudy or white appearance. While surface treatments such as buff polishing can restore transparency, our proprietary technology that maintains clarity from the cutting stage eliminating the need for additional treatments.

＜Main applications＞
Aquariums, window materials, appearance inspection jigs, product displays, art pieces, and others.

■ PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) | Resistant to Cracking

It has about four times the impact resistance of acrylic and is known for its resistance to cracking. Additionally, it is environmentally friendly as it does not release toxic gases when burned. However, a drawback is that high-quality PET is not widely available in Thailand, making it challenging to obtain.

▲ Sample of processed products using PET

＜Main applications＞
Covers for equipment and machinery

■ PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) | Blue resin with excellent adhesive properties

In Thailand, it is the second most cost-effective material after acrylic and offers excellent machinability. It is especially well-suited for applications requiring strong adhesion, making it ideal for complex shapes that need to be bonded. Its distinctive light blue color is another unique feature. However, it is vulnerable to organic solvents, so caution is needed when using it in environments where chemicals are handled.

▲ Sample of processed products using PVC

＜Main applications＞
Covers, building materials, jigs for appearance inspection, and more

Proposing Optimal Combinations Leveraging Material Characteristics
Materials with high-demand thickness are in stock in Thailand.

Each material comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. We offer machining solutions that maximize the benefits of each material, tailored to its intended use.

▲ List of functionality by transparent resin materials

In addition to the application, the optimal combination varies depending on the usage environment, budget, and processing requirements. Leveraging our extensive experience with a wide range of resin materials, we provide high-precision resin parts in Thailand that match the quality found in Japan.

We maintain a stock of each material, including high-demand thicknesses, in Thailand. Immediate delivery is possible for certain materials. Our strength lies in our ability to seamlessly handle everything from customer consultations and proposals to processing.

If you are experiencing challenges with processing transparent resins or sourcing parts in Thailand, please feel free to contact us for assistance.

Ryo Murata
Sale Manager
January 2023: Joined Technoplast Corporation (Japan)
June 2023: Assigned to Thailand as a sales representative for Technoplast (Thailand)

If you are experiencing challenges with high-precision plastic (resin) machining in Thailand or are considering the procurement and processing of transparent resins, please contact us using the inquiry form.