Pro Form

Co-Extrusion

Co-extrusion is the process of pressing two or more materials through the same die to produce a single piece of sheet or roll with different layers fused together. When multiple plastics are combined, the result can produce properties distinct from those of a single material and can create a different colour layers of the same material.

Co-extrusion is only possible with specialised extrusion capabilities. All three of PRO-FORM’s large plastic extrusion lines offer multi-layer co-extrusion options. This capability is taken advantage of for many applications including their automotive products such as the ABS SportLid and canopy.

Co-extrusion Capabilities

  • Up to five layers: A/B – A/B/A – A/B/C – A/B/A/B/A
  • Co-extrude multiple materials 
  • Co-extrude multiple colours
  • Top capping offered with smooth, levant or haircell finish
  • Layer thickness or capping from as little as 1mm

Common Plastic Co-Extrusion Combinations

There are various benefits and advantages of co-extrusion. Some examples of PRO-FORM use co-extrusion are seen below:

  • Signage – Black HDPE with thiner layer of HDPE colour top layer. This way when you cut through the first layer on a CNC router, the black is exposed which gives the sign contrast and exposes the shapes and lettering. 
  • Canopy and SportLid. ABS black with ABS white capping. The white capping is a better exterior paint ready surface while the black is a better interior colour. 
  • Non-Skid. HDPE base with TPE capping. The HDPE provides a structurally solid material while the TPE provides a non-skid capping
  • Skid plates. These skids plates have a different colour in the middle. When the plastic wears down to the coloured layer you know it is time to replace the skid plate. 

There are various co-extrusion combinations we can provide for a custom application. Please have a chat to the PRO-FORM staff to discuss options which we could provide you.