Introduction
Detailed Explanation of the Mechanical Properties of Various RIM Materials
First, all PU (polyurethane) materials used in low-pressure infusion have very low volume shrinkage, typically between 0.1% and 0.6%. This ensures that even large parts can be replicated with high dimensional accuracy.
Hard Plastic (Simulating ABS/PC)
This is the most standard hard prototyping material, used to simulate engineering plastics such as ABS or PC. Its hardness is approximately Shore D75–D80, providing excellent surface scratch resistance. Excellent tensile strength, approximately 45–65 MPa, is sufficient for most housing and structural component strength verification requirements. Its elongation at break ranges from 6–15%, demonstrating a hard yet slightly tough nature.
Tough Plastic (Simulating PP/PE)
This material mimics the toughness of PP or PE. Its hardness is relatively low, approximately Shore D60–D70, and its tensile strength is also relatively low (25–40 MPa), but its elongation at break is significantly increased, reaching 20–100%. This makes it ideal for prototyping structural components that must withstand bending or repeated snapping.
High-Rigidity/Heat-Resistant Plastic
For higher strength requirements, PU formulations with added glass or mineral fibers can be selected. The hardness of this material can be increased to Shore D80–D85, with a corresponding increase in tensile strength to 50–80 MPa. However, this comes at the expense of toughness, with elongation at break dropping to 3–8%, making it a typical rigid material.
Key Concepts
- Shore Hardness: A measure of a material’s resistance to indentation. Shore D is used for rigid plastics; higher values indicate stiffer materials.
- Tensile Strength: This refers to the maximum stress (force) a material can withstand before breaking. Higher values indicate a stronger material and less prone to breaking.
- Elongation at Break: This refers to the percentage increase in length at break. This value directly reflects its toughness; higher values indicate a material with greater resistance to bending and less prone to brittle fracture.
Conclusion
Rim injection molding (RIM) offers a wide range of performance options, from strong and tough to highly rigid. Early in a project, you can select the most appropriate material based on the product’s functional requirements—whether an impact-resistant housing (standard hard PU) or a flex-resistant clip (tough PU)—for the most cost-effective design and functional verification.

