Beyond Metal: The Smart Choice with Plastic Plating Tanks

For decades, metal tanks were the standard in electroplating and chemical processing. However, the rise of advanced thermoplastics has ushered in a new era of efficiency and reliability with plastic plating tanks. Let's explore why making the switch to plastic is a smart choice for your industrial needs.

Why Plastic?

The shift from metal to plastic plating tanks is driven by several key advantages:

• Superior Corrosion Resistance: Unlike metal, plastic resists the corrosive effects of harsh chemicals, extending the tank's lifespan and reducing the risk of contamination.
• Enhanced Cost-Effectiveness: Plastic tanks are lighter and easier to handle, resulting in lower transportation and installation costs. Their durability also reduces long-term maintenance expenses.
• Design Flexibility: Plastic can be easily molded and fabricated into various shapes and sizes, allowing for customized solutions that fit specific requirements.
• Improved Thermal and Chemical Stability: High-performance plastics can withstand extreme temperatures and aggressive chemical environments, ensuring consistent and reliable performance.
• Reduced Maintenance: Plastic tanks require minimal upkeep, reducing downtime and operational costs.
• Easy Customization on-site: Plastic tanks can be easily modified on-site to integrate with new process and manufacturing requirements.  This can dramatically increase the tank service life in your factory.

Applications Across Diverse Industries:

• Precision Plating in Electronics: Plastic tanks ensure the purity and consistency of plating solutions for delicate electronic components.
• Durability in Automotive and Aerospace: From protective coatings to aesthetic enhancements, plastic tanks deliver reliable results in demanding environments.
• Safety in Medical Applications: Biocompatible coatings and antimicrobial treatments are safely and effectively applied using plastic plating tanks.
• Strength in Industrial Manufacturing: Heavy machinery and components benefit from the enhanced durability and corrosion resistance provided by plastic coatings.

Read more on our website!

For Quality and Containment, We Seal the Deal

Whatever you need to contain: liquids, gasses or air, you can rely on us. Our plastic enclosures are designed to seal tight and are manufactured to handle volatile or hazardous compounds and meet regulatory requirements. 

From medical devices, plating tanks and retail displays, to OEM plastic components and food processing equipment, our portfolio of custom-engineered and fabricated sheet plastic solutions continues to grow. And don’t worry. If you don’t see what you need on our website, it just means we haven’t been asked to take a crack at it yet! 

No matter how big or complicated your project, we’re ready for your challenge. Engineered and made in America since 1945. Contact us today to get started.

The Unsung Hero: Why Plastic Plating Tanks Are Essential Across Industries

In the realm of industrial processes, certain pieces of equipment quietly work behind the scenes, ensuring the quality and longevity of countless products. One such unsung hero is the plastic plating tank. While often overlooked, these tanks are indispensable across a multitude of industries, from automotive to medical. Let's delve into why plastic plating tanks have become a cornerstone of modern manufacturing.

What Are Plastic Plating Tanks?

Plastic plating tanks are specialized containers designed to hold corrosive solutions used in electroplating and chemical processing. Crafted from high-performance thermoplastics like polypropylene (PPRO), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE or HDPE), and fluoropolymers (PTFE or PVDF), these tanks offer exceptional resistance to harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures.

Industries That Rely on Plastic Plating Tanks:

• Automotive Industry: From chrome bumpers to intricate trim pieces, plastic plating tanks enable the electroplating processes that enhance durability and aesthetics.
• Aerospace and Defense: Meeting stringent quality standards, these tanks facilitate anodizing and surface treatments that improve wear resistance and longevity.
• Electronics and Semiconductor Manufacturing: Precision plating of circuit boards and microcomponents relies on the non-reactive nature of plastic to maintain solution purity.
• Medical and Healthcare Equipment: Biocompatible coatings for medical devices are achieved through electropolishing and antimicrobial treatments in plastic plating tanks.
• Industrial Manufacturing and Heavy Equipment: Heavy machinery benefits from zinc, cadmium, and phosphate coatings, enhancing strength and corrosion resistance.

The Advantages Are Clear:

• Corrosion Resistance: Say goodbye to rust and chemical degradation.
• Lightweight and Cost-Effective: Easier transportation, installation, and maintenance.
• Customizable Designs: Tailored to meet specific plating requirements.
• Thermal and Chemical Stability: Withstands extreme conditions.
• Low Maintenance: Minimal upkeep, saving time and resources.
• Easy Customization on-site: Plastic tanks can be easily modified at your facility to integrate with new process and manufacturing requirements.  This can dramatically increase the tank service life in your factory.

Learn more on our website!

For Quality and Containment, We Seal the Deal 

Whatever you need to contain - liquids, gasses, or air - you can rely on us. Our plastic enclosures and tanks are designed to seal tight and are manufactured to handle volatile or hazardous compounds and meet regulatory requirements. 

From medical devices, plating tanks and retail displays to OEM plastic components and food processing equipment, our portfolio of custom-engineered and fabricated sheet plastic solutions continues to grow. And don’t worry. If you don’t see what you need on our website, it just means we haven’t been asked to take a crack at it yet! 

No matter how big or complicated your project is, we’re ready for your challenge. Engineered and made in America since 1945. Contact us today to get started.​

Beyond the Counter: Expanding the Use of Safety Shields in Public Spaces

While sneeze guards are commonly seen at checkout counters, the benefits of safety shields extend far beyond traditional retail settings. This blog post explores how these versatile barriers can be implemented in various public spaces to minimize the spread of germs and create healthier environments for everyone.

Rethinking Public Spaces:

From public transportation to schools and community centers, public spaces are areas where people congregate and interact, increasing the potential for germ transmission. Implementing safety shields in these spaces can provide an extra layer of protection and promote a greater sense of public health awareness.

Expanding the Scope of Protection:

• Public Transportation: Partitions or dividers in buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation can help minimize the spread of germs between passengers, particularly during peak travel times.
• Schools and Daycares: In classrooms, cafeterias, and common areas, safety shields can create separation barriers between students and staff, reducing the risk of transmission in these high-contact environments.
• Healthcare Settings: In waiting rooms and reception areas of clinics and hospitals, safety shields can help protect vulnerable patients from exposure to airborne illnesses.
• Community Centers and Libraries: These public spaces often host events and gatherings where people are in close proximity. Implementing safety shields can help mitigate the risk of germ transmission during these activities.

Creating a Culture of Prevention:

The presence of safety shields in public spaces serves as a visual reminder of the importance of hygiene and social distancing. This can encourage individuals to be more mindful of their actions and take responsibility for preventing the spread of germs.

A Shared Responsibility:

While safety shields are a valuable tool, they are most effective when used in conjunction with other preventative measures such as hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, and staying home when sick. By working together and implementing a multi-layered approach, we can create healthier and safer public spaces for everyone.

Read more on our website!

We bring together the experiences and successes of Imperial Industries and Ann Arbor Plastics to manufacture superior custom products - especially in the face of the most difficult design challenges. From plastic safety shields, plating tanks and retail displays to OEM plastic components and food processing equipment, our portfolio of custom-engineered and fabricated sheet plastic solutions continues to grow. And don’t worry. If you don’t see what you need here, it just means we haven’t been asked to take a crack at it yet. No matter how big or complicated your project, we’re ready for your challenge. Engineered and made in America since 1945. Contact us today!

Protecting Public-Facing Workers During Cold Season: The Role of Sneeze Guards

The cold and flu season brings with it a heightened awareness of germ transmission, particularly in public spaces where interactions are frequent. For workers in customer-facing roles, the risk of exposure is even greater. Sneeze guards – a simple yet effective safety measure – can provide crucial protection for these essential workers.

The Front Line of Germ Exposure:

Cashiers, receptionists, bank tellers, and other public-facing employees are constantly interacting with numerous individuals throughout the day. This puts them on the front line of potential germ exposure from coughs, sneezes, and even regular conversation. While handwashing and other hygiene practices are important, they don't offer complete protection against airborne droplets.

Enter the Sneeze Guard:

Sneeze guards, also known as cough shields or cashier shields, provide a physical barrier between employees and the public. Typically made of clear acrylic or polycarbonate, these shields are strategically placed at counters and transaction points to intercept droplets expelled during coughing, sneezing, or talking.

Benefits Beyond Physical Protection:

• Reduced Sick Days: By minimizing the transmission of germs, sneeze guards can help reduce employee sick days, leading to improved productivity and reduced staffing shortages.
• Increased Employee Confidence: Knowing that they have an added layer of protection can boost employee morale and confidence, leading to better customer service.
• Customer Reassurance: The presence of sneeze guards also reassures customers that businesses are taking their health and safety seriously, fostering trust and loyalty.

Read more on our website!

We bring together the experiences and successes of Imperial Industries and Ann Arbor Plastics to manufacture superior custom products - especially in the face of the most difficult design challenges. From plastic safety shields, plating tanks and retail displays to OEM plastic components and food processing equipment, our portfolio of custom-engineered and fabricated sheet plastic solutions continues to grow. And don’t worry. If you don’t see what you need here, it just means we haven’t been asked to take a crack at it yet. No matter how big or complicated your project, we’re ready for your challenge. Engineered and made in America since 1945. Contact us today!

Designing Plastic Enclosures for Harsh Environments

Plastic enclosures, once primarily used for indoor applications, have evolved to become a reliable solution for a wide range of harsh environments. From extreme temperatures to high humidity and impact, these enclosures protect sensitive electronic components and ensure optimal performance.

Key Considerations for Harsh Environment Design

• Material Selection:
• Polycarbonate: Offers excellent impact resistance, heat resistance, and UV stability. Ideal for outdoor applications.
• Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS): Provides good impact resistance, chemical resistance, and dimensional stability. Suitable for general-purpose use.
• Nylon: Offers high strength, stiffness, and heat resistance. Ideal for high-temperature and high-stress applications.
• Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT): Provides excellent chemical resistance, heat resistance, and dimensional stability. Suitable for automotive and industrial applications.

Read more on our website!

When It’s Not in ANY Catalog... 

In need of a plastic part that doesn’t exist? Since 1945, we’ve been engineering and building custom plastic containers and products from scratch to help our customers. From medical devices, to plating tanks and retail displays, to OEM plastic components and food processing equipment, our portfolio of custom-engineered and fabricated sheet plastic solutions continues to grow. How can we help you? Contact us today to find out!

The Real-Life Application of Electroplating

Electroplating, a process that involves depositing a thin layer of metal onto a conductive surface, is a cornerstone of modern manufacturing.

From the sleek finishes on our cars to the intricate components of our electronics, electroplating is everywhere in our daily lives.

By harnessing the power of electricity, we can enhance the appearance, durability, and functionality of a wide range of products, making electroplating an indispensable technique in industries as diverse as automotive, electronics, and jewelry.

Learn more on our website!

Bring Your Ideas to Life with Custom Plastic Parts Fabrication!

Custom plastic parts fabrication continues to be a valuable asset in the field of electroplating. Its versatility, affordability, and ease of use make it an indispensable material for achieving precise and efficient metal coatings. How can we help you?

From medical devices, plating tanks and retail displays, to OEM plastic components and food processing equipment, our portfolio of custom-engineered and fabricated sheet plastic solutions continues to grow.

And don’t worry. If you don’t see what you need here, it just means we haven’t been asked to take a crack at it yet. No matter how big or complicated your project, we’re ready for your challenge! Contact us today to learn more.

Plastic's Role in Electroplating: A Versatile Support Material

Why does plastic hold such a vital role in the intricate process of electroplating?

How can this everyday substance contribute to the creation of durable and functional products?

The process of electroplating is when a thin layer of metal is deposited onto a conductive surface through an electrochemical process. To ensure precise and efficient plating, plastic serves as a versatile support material, offering several advantages:

Plastic as a Molding Material

• Custom Shapes and Sizes: Plastic's malleability allows for the creation of intricate molds that can replicate a wide range of shapes and sizes. This flexibility is essential for producing components with complex geometries.
• Economical Production: Plastic molds are relatively inexpensive to produce, making them a cost-effective solution for both large-scale and small-scale production runs.

Plastic as a Masking Agent

• Selective Plating: By using plastic as a masking agent, specific areas of a component can be protected from the plating solution. This technique enables precise control over the plating process, resulting in components with targeted metal coatings.
• Patterned Coatings: Intricate patterns can be achieved by using plastic masks with specific cutouts. This allows for the creation of decorative or functional coatings with unique designs.

Learn more on our website!

Bring Your Ideas to Life with Custom Plastic Parts Fabrication!

Custom plastic parts fabrication continues to be a valuable asset in the field of electroplating. Its versatility, affordability, and ease of use make it an indispensable material for achieving precise and efficient metal coatings. How can we help you?

From medical devices, plating tanks and retail displays, to OEM plastic components and food processing equipment, our portfolio of custom-engineered and fabricated sheet plastic solutions continues to grow. And don’t worry. If you don’t see what you need here, it just means we haven’t been asked to take a crack at it yet. No matter how big or complicated your project, we’re ready for your challenge! Contact us today to learn more.