FAQs

Making your ideas take shape

Knowing some customers may be unfamiliar with our plastic profile extrusion capabilities, we have compiled a list of questions we are frequently asked.

What is durometer?

Durometer is a measurement of the material’s hardness and is measured with a device which is pressed against the profile’s surface, resulting in a dial guage reading. The most common reading is based on a 15-second delay. Common scales are Shore A for flexible materials and Shore D for rigid compounds.

What is a dual durometer or co-extrusion?

Dual durometer, or co-extrusion, is the fusion of two or more materials of varying physical properties into a single extruded piece. An example would be a rigid part with flexible fingers that could be used as a gasket or cushion. Typically, the two materials are from the same family of polymers to ensure compatibility for adequate adhesion; however, in some instances dissimilar materials can be extruded together, providing adhesion can be obtained.

Why should I use vinyl (PVC) for my custom extrusion?

Vinyl compounds range from soft (low durometer) to very rigid providing the ability to meet most plastic profile extrusion requirements. With the addition of color concentrates, almost any color is achievable ranging from metallics to florescent. PVC plastic compounds are inherently flame resistant with good chemical resistance. Weatherability can be achieved with the addition of ultraviolet inhibitors.

View our entire plastic profile material list.

What quality control procedures are followed?

Each plastic profile extrusion shipment is documented for compliance to strict quality control guidelines, in addition to the nuances of the specific production run. Quality control is the primary responsibility of the production operator and is monitored and recorded by Quality Assurance personnel on an hourly basis. SFR is routinely audited by major corporations for compliance to recognized quality systems. The consistently high level of product quality is considered to be the primary reason for our significant growth over the last decade.

Which industries do you serve?

As a manufacturer of custom plastic profile extrusions, we serve many different industries. We work closely with our customers to provide the highest quality plastic extrusions, whether for electronics, furniture, office furnishings, store fixtures, POP displays, industrial or one of several other markets served.

What is the average tool cost for a profile extrusion die?

Tooling costs are included in the Engineering Development Charge. Other items considered are the actual labor and material costs to develop “production ready” tooling. Consequently, there are many factors involved that prohibit a direct answer to the question. However, depending on the part complexity and raw materials, one could estimate the costs starting at less than $1,000.

Learn more about our plastic profile tooling.

What is the typical minimum run quantity?

This is a prime example of “it all depends.” Due to varying set-up costs and run efficiencies, we attempt to restrict the minimum production quantity to 1,000 lineal feet. However, this quantity may vary depending on the projected costs, which are significantly higher for shorter run lengths. We are pleased to provide quotations for various run lengths and release quantities upon request.

What is a vacuum sizer (calibrator)?

Vacuum sizers, sometimes called vacuum calibrators, are an integral part of many plastic extrusion set-ups and specific to each custom profile. The sizer determines the final part dimensionally by using vacuum to shape the profile during the cooling process. While the initial cost may seem high, the sizer ensures manufacturing cost controls and the same size every time.

Which material is best for creating a plastic profile?

The goal in material selection is to determine which balance of physical properties best match the end use requirements of your plastic profile extrusion. One must consider many attributes such as environmental, use temperature, chemical exposure, flammability requirements, impact, aesthetics, and the overall part function. Our development team will work with you to select the optimum balance of material properties, function and cost.

View our entire plastic profile material list.