Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) involves mixing wood fibers with a polymer prior to extrusion. This new compound will retain some of the properties of wood while gaining the added properties from the polymer. PVC, polyethylene, and polypropylene are the most commonly used plastics in a wood plastic composite product.
Advantages
Many applications call for the use of wood; however, pure wood can hold many negative characteristics. Due to being a natural material, weak spots and other impurities can be present in wood. Pure wood holds moisture, making it susceptible to rot and weathering. By utilizing a wood plastic composite, characteristics from the polymer are added to enhance the desired characteristics and remove the negative characteristics in the wood.
Wood plastic composite products are consistent throughout with even density. Impurities and weak spots have been removed or strengthened by the added polymer. Water absorption is also lowered meaning that rotting, weathering, splintering, or splitting is less likely to occur. Wood treatments such as painting and staining can be used on wood plastic composite products as well, making them a popular choice for many applications that would benefit from the look of wood without the negative characteristics of real wood.
Wood Plastic Composite Strengths
- Consistent; even density
- Strengthened by polymer, twice as strong as vinyl alone
- Significantly less water absorption compared to wood
- Retains its stability and rigidity in all climates
- Very low thermal transfer
- Less susceptible to rot, decay and fungal growth
- Won’t flake, blister, pit or corrode
- Customizable colors for long lasting beauty
Applications
Wood Plastic Composite is a popular solution in the building and construction industry. WPC products can withstand various environments making them a great material for many construction applications such as siding, decking, fencing & rail, flooring, furniture as well as door and window components.
Reschcor’s Capabilities
Reschcor is the industry’s leading supplier for quality, custom-engineered plastic extrusion manufacturing. We pride ourselves on our ability to create a custom solution for even the most challenging of problems. Reschcor’s capabilities utilize 23 production lines covering a wide output range operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We have extensive experience processing both pellet and powder formulations. Our state-of-the-art downstream equipment and advanced air, water and vacuum systems allow us to succeed with profiles of any shape or size. Contact Reschcor today so we can learn more about your company and understand how we can help your business succeed.