Plastic Drilling Segments vs Metal: Cost and Wear Comparison
by admin-ha
Drilling equipment uses many small segments and components that wear and need regular replacement. Traditionally many were metal. Today, engineering thermoplastics are a proven alternative for many applications. Here is how plastic drilling segments compare with metal.
What Are Plastic Drilling Segments?
Plastic drilling segments are moulded components used in mining drilling equipment, made from engineering plastics through injection moulding. They are designed for consistent performance and simple replacement.
Plastic vs Metal: Key Differences
Weight
Plastic segments are much lighter than metal equivalents, making handling, storage and replacement easier.
Wear and friction
Many engineering thermoplastics have low friction and good wear resistance, and they are less likely to damage the parts they contact. Metal segments can gall or score mating surfaces.
Corrosion
Plastics do not rust, which is a major benefit in wet drilling environments.
Strength and temperature
Metal remains stronger and more heat tolerant, so it is still the right choice for highly loaded or high-temperature components.
Consistency
Injection moulding produces parts that are highly consistent from one batch to the next, which helps with fit and predictable wear.
Cost Comparison
Once a mould is made, injection-moulded segments are usually cheaper per part than machined metal, especially at volume. Compare the total cost including replacement labour and downtime, not just purchase price.
When to Choose Plastic Drilling Segments
- Wear components that are replaced regularly
- Wet or corrosive environments
- Applications where protecting mating parts matters
- High-volume, repeat orders
Our Plastic Drilling Segments
We make plastic drilling segments in-house on the Gold Coast from engineering thermoplastics, with runs from a few hundred to millions of units and volume supply agreements available. Learn more about engineering thermoplastics for mining.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are plastic drilling segments strong enough for mining?
For many wear applications, yes. Engineering thermoplastics offer good wear resistance and toughness. Highly loaded or high-temperature parts may still require metal.
Why use plastic instead of metal segments?
Plastic segments are lighter, do not rust, can reduce wear on mating parts and are cost effective at volume.
What material are your drilling segments made from?
Mining Parts Australia makes drilling segments from engineering thermoplastics using in-house injection moulding.
Can I set up an ongoing supply of drilling segments?
Yes. We offer volume supply agreements for regular orders, from a few hundred to millions of units.
Talk to Mining Parts Australia
Send us a part number, photo or description and our team will source it for you. Browse the product list, explore our services or contact us on (07) 5535 2228. For the bigger picture, read our complete guide to mining parts in Australia.
Posted in Drilling Parts