The construction industry has seen no shortage of innovative materials being incorporated into projects over the years, contributing to more efficient, stronger, and more cost-effective projects.
When it comes to PVC being used in construction, rigid extrusion compounds have long been used in numerous ways. However, some innovative uses for rigid injection compounds have been coming to the fore of late and are expected to become far more widely embraced in the coming years.
Let’s take a look at some of the ways rigid PVC compounds will continue to be used in construction going forward:
Custom Architectural Components
One of the innovative ways that injection-moulded rigid PVC compounds are being used in the construction industry is for the production of highly detailed and customised architectural components. These include things like decorative trims, cornices, and panel mouldings.
The low cost of producing these components, as well as their lightweight and durable nature, makes them attractive alternatives to traditional materials like wood or metal.
In the future, these types of components might be further refined to create more complex geometries for modern architectural designs, meeting the demand for bespoke and sustainable building materials.
Electrical and Plumbing Fixtures
Rigid PVC injection compounds have long been used for producing electrical and plumbing fixtures. PVC pipes and cable housings are a mainstay in most modern buildings.
However, this material is increasingly used to produce other fixtures like junction boxes. Thanks to their flame-retardant properties, PVC compounds are well-suited to these applications.
In the future, further innovations may include compounds with enhanced thermal stability and other smart features, such as embedded sensors, allowing for real-time monitoring of electrical and plumbing systems.
Energy-Efficient Fenestration
Injection-moulded rigid PVC compounds are already being used to produce window frames, glazing bars, and weatherstrips, among other applications. Their excellent thermal insulation, precision manufacturing, and resistance to weathering and corrosion make this material ideal for these purposes.
Their contribution to energy efficiency, which is a priority in modern construction, is attributable to the precise construction of these components, achieving much more effective insulation than competitor materials, thereby reducing heating and cooling costs.
If you’re looking for a high-quality rigid injection compound for your PVC products, contact us at IPC today!
