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Find out which standards and approvals engineering plastics have to meet – for the highest quality, safety and requirements.
Engineering plastics are indispensable in numerous industrial applications. To meet the high requirements in areas such as mechanical engineering, medical technology, aviation or the food industry, they must comply with certain standards and approvals.
These standards ensure that the materials meet defined specifications with regard to quality, safety, resistance and functionality. Below you will find a comprehensive overview of important standards for engineering plastics as well as relevant approvals, which are equally important for manufacturers, processors and users.
Importance of standards for engineering plastics
Standards serve to standardise the properties, test methods and areas of application of engineering plastics. They provide clarity about:
- Mechanical, thermal and chemical properties
- Requirements for processing and use
- Test methods for quality assurance
- Environmental and safety aspects
By complying with such standards, companies can ensure that their plastic products meet internationally recognised standards. At the same time, standards facilitate the selection of suitable materials for specific areas of application.
Important international standards for engineering plastics
Various international organisations have developed standards that are valid worldwide. The following are particularly important:
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| ISO 1043 | Designation system for plastics (material identification) |
| ISO 527 | Determination of the tensile strength of plastics |
| ISO 178 | Determination of flexural strength |
| ISO 1133 | Determination of the melt index (MFI) of thermoplastics |
| ASTM D638 | Tensile testing for plastics in North America |
| UL 94 | Flammability classification of plastics (flammability test) |
| EN 10204 | Inspection certificates for materials, also relevant for plastics |
These standards define properties and test methods that are used worldwide in the quality assurance of engineering plastics.
Approvals for special applications
In certain industries, general standards are not sufficient. Here, specific approvals are required to ensure that plastics meet special requirements. Typical examples:
- Food industry: FDA (USA) or EU Regulation 10/2011 on plastics intended to come into contact with food
- Medical technology: ISO 10993 (biocompatibility of materials)
- Aviation: FAR 25.853 (fire protection requirements for aircraft interiors)
- Automotive industry: OEM standards, e.g. VW TL, BMW GS
Depending on the area of application, materials must undergo extensive tests and test procedures in order to obtain the corresponding approval.
Selecting the right standards and approvals
When selecting engineering plastics, companies should observe the following points:
- Define the area of application: In which environment and under which conditions is the plastic used?
- Research relevant standards and requirements: Observe industry-specific standards and regulations.
- Request material certificates: Manufacturers should be able to provide corresponding certificates and test reports.
A structured approach to selection is crucial in order to avoid subsequent liability risks or production problems.
Examples of industry-specific requirements
Food industry:
- Evidence of migration tests (in accordance with EU Regulation 10/2011)
- Declaration of conformity for the materials used
Medical technology:
- Evidence of biocompatibility (ISO 10993)
- Certification in accordance with ISO 13485 for manufacturers of medical devices
Automotive industry:
- Compliance with OEM-specific material standards (e.g. thermal ageing, UV resistance)
Conclusion: standards and approvals as quality assurance
Standards for engineering plastics as well as industry-specific approvals are essential in order to ensure the suitability and safety of materials. Companies that consistently align material selection and processing with these standards not only create legal certainty but also a competitive advantage through the higher quality and reliability of their products.