High-impact polystyrene (HIPS) is a type of thermoplastic made by blending polystyrene with rubber to enhance its impact resistance. This material is widely known for its strength, versatility, and cost-effectiveness, making it a go-to option for various industries, including packaging, foodservice, and others. High-impact polystyrene is what gives manufacturers the ability to create durable products without compromising on quality or cost.
HIPS is commonly used for thermoforming, but its applications extend beyond that. It is a versatile material used to manufacture a wide range of products, including plastic trays and consumer electronics. HIPS even meets the stringent standards required to be classified as a medical-grade plastic due to its biocompatibility and sterilizability. Outside of thermoforming, HIPS is frequently used for items such as appliance components and signage, thanks to its durability and ease of production.
A thermoplastic is a type of material that softens when heated and hardens when cooled, which makes it easy to shape and mold. HIPS is particularly favored in the thermoforming process due to its unique ability to retain its form once cooled, providing a smooth surface and consistent thickness. Its thermoplastic nature means it can be heated and reformed multiple times, offering manufacturers flexibility in production without losing structural integrity.
One of the key benefits of HIPS over standard polystyrene is its enhanced impact resistance. This is due to the incorporation of rubber into the material, which improves its ability to absorb shocks and resist cracking. Compared to regular polystyrene, HIPS is far more durable and resilient to rough handling, making it ideal for applications where impact strength is critical, such as packaging fragile items or manufacturing food trays.
HIPS is a relatively inexpensive material, making it an attractive choice for businesses looking for a cost-efficient solution without compromising quality. Its affordability does not come at the expense of performance, as HIPS provides excellent durability and versatility at a fraction of the cost of other, more specialized plastics. This makes it ideal for large-scale production runs where cost control is essential.
HIPS is FDA compliant, meaning it is non-toxic and suitable for food contact applications. As a food-grade plastic, it ensures that products like food trays and containers meet regulatory requirements for safe use. This property is particularly valuable for businesses in the food industry, providing peace of mind that their products are safe for consumers.
Most thermoplastics are technically recyclable, but they require specific recycling services, which are not always readily available. However, HIPS is a commonly accepted plastic in most recycling programs, making it easy to dispose of responsibly. This makes HIPS not only a cost-effective and versatile choice but also an environmentally friendly option when proper recycling processes are followed.
High-impact Polystyrene is one of the two primary thermoplastics that Ready-Made Plastic Trays uses for our products. We choose HIPS for its durability, versatility, and ease of use in thermoforming processes. The material’s enhanced impact resistance, cost-effectiveness, and FDA compliance make it an ideal choice for producing high-quality plastic trays that meet the diverse needs of our clients.
Considering material options for a new product? Explore HIPS and other plastic packaging materials we frequently work with, and reach out with any questions you may have.