Plastics & Polymers

Surplus Plastic and Polymer Materials

Plastics and polymers can provide lightweight, corrosion-resistant alternatives to metal, wood, and other traditional materials. Surplus stock may include sheets, rods, tubes, containers, components, offcuts, or finished equipment made from common and engineering-grade plastics.

Choosing a Material

Select material according to the demands of the intended application. Useful considerations include:

• Strength and stiffness: Determine the expected load, impact, and wear.
• Temperature range: Confirm that the material remains stable at anticipated operating temperatures.
• Chemical resistance: Check compatibility with fuels, oils, cleaners, acids, or other substances.
• Weather resistance: Consider ultraviolet exposure, moisture, and prolonged outdoor use.
• Fabrication: Verify whether the material can be cut, drilled, machined, formed, welded, or bonded as required.
• Food or potable-water use: Use only products specifically identified as suitable for the intended contact application.

Inspecting Surplus Stock

Condition and specifications can vary between surplus items. Before purchase or use, confirm the material type, dimensions, quantity, condition, and any available manufacturer markings. Inspect used or stored plastics for cracks, brittleness, deformation, chemical damage, or excessive ultraviolet exposure.

Do not rely on appearance alone when material identity or load-bearing performance is important. Unknown plastics should not be used for critical structural, pressure, electrical-insulation, medical, or food-contact applications without appropriate verification.

Typical Uses

• Protective panels, liners, and covers
• Storage and organization
• Spacers, bushings, guides, and wear surfaces
• Workshop fixtures and fabrication projects
• Outdoor, marine, or utility applications when the material is appropriately rated
• Repairs, prototypes, and general-purpose replacement parts