Browse By Application

Explore industrial plastic materials by application with Farco Plastics. From outdoor signage and marine environments to manufacturing, industrial equipment, and construction projects, our plastics are engineered to deliver reliable performance where it matters most.

Use this applications overview to quickly identify the right plastic sheet, rod, or tube based on your environment, performance requirements, and fabrication needs. If you’re unsure which material is best, our team can help you match the ideal plastic to your project.

Primary Plastic Applications

Signage & Graphics

  • Indoor and outdoor retail signage
  • Backlit displays and wayfinding
  • Printed graphics and POP displays
  • Channel letters and dimensional signs

Common materials: Acrylic, Polycarbonate, PVC, ACM, HDU

Marine & Outdoor

  • Boat components, panels, and covers
  • Dock boards, bumpers, and fender systems
  • Waterfront and coastal signage
  • Outdoor furniture and structures

Common materials: HDPE, Marine-grade polymer sheet, UHMW, PVC

Manufacturing & Industrial

  • Wear strips, guides, and rails
  • Bearings, bushings, and gears
  • Conveyor components and guards
  • Chemical-resistant tanks and parts

Common materials: UHMW, Acetal, Nylon, Polypropylene, ABS

Construction & Architectural

  • Protective glazing and safety barriers
  • Wall panels, partitions, and guards
  • Decorative and architectural features
  • Weather-resistant exterior components

Common materials: Polycarbonate, Acrylic, PVC, ACM

Why Browse Plastics by Application?

Better Performance & Fit

  • Match plastics to real-world conditions (UV, moisture, impact, chemicals)
  • Select materials designed for specific environments and loads
  • Reduce premature failure and unplanned downtime
  • Improve part life, reliability, and safety in the field

Simplified Material Selection

  • Start with the application, then narrow by material type
  • Quickly compare options for signage, marine, industrial, or construction
  • Identify plastics that are easier to machine, weld, or fabricate
  • Leverage support from Farco’s application and material specialists

Material Selection Tips

  • Define exposure: UV, weather, saltwater, chemicals, or high impact.
  • Confirm mechanical needs: stiffness, toughness, and wear resistance.
  • Check fabrication method: machining, thermoforming, bonding, or welding.
  • Review compliance needs: food contact, flame ratings, or industry standards.

Common Questions About Plastic Applications

What plastic is best for outdoor signage?

Acrylic and polycarbonate are popular for outdoor signage because they combine clarity with UV resistance. PVC and ACM panels are ideal for printed signs and dimensional graphics that need durability and flatness.

Which plastics work best in marine or coastal environments?

HDPE, UHMW, and marine-grade polymer sheets perform well in marine environments. They resist moisture, saltwater, and UV exposure without corroding, cracking, or swelling, making them ideal for docks, boat parts, and waterfront structures.

What materials should I use for wear and friction components?

UHMW and Acetal are commonly used for bearings, bushings, guides, and wear strips. They offer low friction, high impact resistance, and good dimensional stability in demanding industrial applications.

How do I choose the right plastic for my application?

Start with the application: where the part will be used, what it will contact, and how it will be loaded. From there, consider UV exposure, temperature, chemicals, impact, and fabrication method. If you are unsure, contact Farco Plastics for application-specific recommendations.