Wide spec or off-spec resins are byproducts of the virgin plastic polymerization process that do not meet the standard specifications required for primary plastic products. These materials are typically purchased by wide spec resin suppliers, resin compounders, and other specialized buyers. They may have been exposed to heat or other conditions that alter their physical and chemical properties, but despite this, they can still be used in various applications. Plastic resin suppliers often sell these resins at a lower cost than virgin plastics, making them an attractive option for OEMs and manufacturers looking to reduce expenses without compromising on quality. This article explores the different types, characteristics, and uses of wide spec resins.

Wide Spec Resins

What Are Wide Spec Resins?

Also known as off-grade resins, wide spec resins have properties that fall outside the typical range of standard plastics. Depending on how much they deviate from the norm, they can be classified as either good wide spec or bad wide spec. For example, color variations—such as being pale, discolored, or caramelized—can make them unsuitable for certain applications. However, since these resins are a byproduct of the production process, they don’t require additional costs or time to produce. This makes them a valuable resource for companies looking for cost-effective alternatives.

Types, Properties, and Applications of Wide Spec Resins

Although off-grade resins are not strictly defined, they differ slightly from standard resins based on their type, such as ABS, acrylic, polycarbonate, polypropylene, and polyurethane. Below are some common examples and their typical variations:

  • ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
    • Standard Properties: ABS is a thermoplastic known for its high impact resistance, durability, and ease of machining. It’s commonly used in automotive parts, consumer electronics, and toys due to its versatility and strength.
    • Wide Spec Variations: Changes in color, density, or mechanical strength may occur due to improper blending or processing. These deviations can affect the material's performance in critical applications.
    • Applications: Commonly found in computer peripherals, vehicle interiors, and product casings. However, wide spec ABS may not be suitable for precision engineering parts.
  • Acrylic
    • Standard Properties: Acrylic is valued for its optical clarity and lightweight nature, often used as a glass alternative in windows, signs, and displays. It has good impact resistance and is easy to machine.
    • Wide Spec Variations: Wide spec acrylic may exhibit reduced transparency, altered tensile strength, or inconsistent density, which can limit its use in optical applications.
    • Applications: Used in partitions, lenses, and furniture. If opaque, it may not be ideal for transparent components like display screens.
  • Polycarbonate (PC)
    • Standard Properties: PC is known for its excellent impact resistance, transparency, and heat resistance. It’s widely used in safety glasses, electronic enclosures, and automotive parts.
    • Wide Spec Variations: May show differences in transparency, density, or mechanical strength if the polymerization process was not precise.
    • Applications: Often used in food containers, water bottles, and kitchenware. Wide spec PC may not be suitable for high-performance engineering applications.
  • Polypropylene (PP)
    • Standard Properties: PP is a versatile, lightweight plastic with good heat resistance and chemical stability. It can be rigid or flexible depending on formulation.
    • Wide Spec Variations: Differences in chain structure during polymerization can lead to variations in hardness and heat resistance compared to standard PP.
    • Applications: Found in packaging, medical devices, and consumer goods. Wide spec PP may not meet strict requirements for food-grade or medical-grade applications.
  • Polyurethane (PU)
    • Standard Properties: PU offers flexibility, durability, and high load-bearing capacity. It can be molded into a variety of forms, making it ideal for seals, gaskets, and industrial components.
    • Wide Spec Variations: Molecular structure inconsistencies can result in deviations in elasticity, hardness, or temperature resistance.
    • Applications: Widely used in automotive, construction, and sporting goods industries. Wide spec PU may not be suitable for precision-engineered parts.

How to Choose the Right Wide Spec Resin

Selecting the right wide spec resin depends on your specific application needs. Here are some key factors to consider:

  • Assess your project requirements and operating environment against the properties of each resin type.
  • Opt for wide spec resins if they meet your needs, or consider customizing them for better performance.
  • Check for physical and chemical properties like density, melting point, UV resistance, and biodegradability.
  • Ensure the material is safe and free from harmful emissions, especially for sensitive applications like food or healthcare.
  • Consider color changes and whether they are acceptable for your intended use.
  • Look at surface finish and texture requirements to ensure compatibility.
  • If using for regulated industries, verify certifications like FDA, RoHS, REACH, and NSF.

If you're an OEM producing large volumes of plastic parts, sourcing high-quality wide spec resins is essential. Mid Continent Plastics is a leading supplier of engineering plastics, offering premium wide spec resins tailored to your needs. With over 30 years of experience, we provide reliable solutions for a wide range of applications. Contact us today to learn more about our offerings.

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Cryogenic Vials

Features:

• Made of USP VI polypropylene.

• Non-pyrogenic, DNase/RNase and human DNA free.
• Round Bottom, Self-standing.
• Autoclavable.
• Sterilized by E-beam, SAL=10^-6 .
• Clear graduations and white marking area.
• Recommend to store in gas phase of the nitrogen tank.
• Internal thread Cap: Special screw cap designed with silicone O-ring to secure the sealing under various condition.

• External thread Cap: Special screw cap designed without silicone ring to avoid risk of contamination.

• The materials and quality of NEST 2D barcode cryogenic vials are the same as NEST common cryogenic vials. They can be used with
Biobank system.
cryo vials


2D barcode

Each vial is permanently marked with a unique 2D barcode, ensuring the vials can be easily and accurately identified when being moved, shipped or even accidentally dropped. Laser 2D barcodeon the bottom of each vial allows scanning and decoding at once without removing from rack.

2D barcode vials


Three-code-in-one (digital code, barcode, QR code)

• The vial has laser-etched international standard DATAMATRIX 2D code at the bottom.
• The barcode and digital code at the side are anti-fading, anti-deforming, wear-proof and resistant against DMSO and other organic solvents; 100% clear and readable.
three-code-in-one

Warning:

Do not use cryogenic vials for storage in the liquid phase of liquid nitrogen. Only store vials in the vapor phase above the liquefied gas.

Always use appropriate safety equipment when removing vials from cryogenic storage.


Refrigeration:
The lowest temperature can withstand -196°C (with screw cap). All our polypropylene pipes are suitable for low temperature storage,
except for liquid nitrogen.

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