---
title: "Injection Molding: Thermoplastics vs. Thermosetting Plastics"
url: https://www.upminc.com/thermoset-vs-thermoplastic/
date: 2019-09-04
modified: 2019-09-04
description: "When it comes to injection molding, two main types of polymers are used: thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics. Even though they sound alike and share similarities, they have very different properties and are used in a variety of unique applications. Thermoset Plastics & Thermoplastics: What’s the difference? The main difference between thermoset plastic and thermoplastic is […]"
---

# Injection Molding: Thermoplastics vs. Thermosetting Plastics

When it comes to [injection molding](https://www.upminc.com/services/plastic-injection-molding/), two main types of polymers are used: thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics. Even though they sound alike and share similarities, they have very different properties and are used in a variety of unique applications.

## Thermoset Plastics & Thermoplastics: What’s the difference?

The main difference between thermoset plastic and thermoplastic is that thermoplastics can be reheated and reformed, while thermoset plastics can not be remelted and remain in a permanent solid state once set. Once thermoset plastics have been hardened, they become more resistant to high temperatures than thermoplastics. They cannot be melted down again to form a new shape, unlike thermoplastics which can be reheated and cooled multiple times to form different shapes.

Think of thermoplastics like cheese and thermoset plastics like a burger patty. Cheese comes in a variety of different shapes but when melted it can take on a new form. Once cooked, a burger patty can’t be melted to take on a new form – it can only be further charred, which can ruin the quality of the burger.

## Thermoset vs. Thermoplastic: The Pros & Cons of Each

### Thermoset Pros & Cons

**Pros:**

- Resistant to melting and higher temperatures

- Highly flexible

**Cons:**

- Unrecyclable

- Can NOT be reshaped or remolded

### Thermoplastic Pros & Cons

**Pros:**

- Recyclable

- CAN be reshaped or remolded

- Highly impact resistant

- Resistant to chemicals

- More available finishing options

**Cons:**

- Can melt if exposed to extreme temperatures

## Our Injection Molding Thermoplastics

We can work with almost any type of thermoplastic compound, but some of our most common thermoplastic polymers include:

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### Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)

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### Polycarbonate

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### Polyethylene

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### High-impact Polystyrene

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### Polypropylene

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### Polymethylene

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### PVC

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### Nylon

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### Acrylic

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### Polyetherimide

## Thermoplastic Injection Molding from UPM

With over [55 years of experience](https://www.upminc.com/about/) providing original equipment manufacturers and manufacturing businesses with premier [plastic injection molding services](https://www.upminc.com/services/plastic-injection-molding/), we have the [expertise](https://www.upminc.com/about/team/) and the [capabilities](https://www.upminc.com/about/facility/) to help you choose the perfect thermoplastic polymer for your product. Are you looking for a partner that will work with you to [reduce lead times and production costs without sacrificing quality](https://www.upminc.com/choose-upm-inc-custom-manufacturer-plastic-molding-products/)? Then you’ve come to the right place. [Get in touch with us](https://www.upminc.com/contact/) to discuss your options today!