Plastic Products for Recreation Applications

Amusement park rides utilize several different plastics. HDPE is a durable, weatherable, long-lasting material often used for seating. UHMW-PE is its stronger polyethylene cousin that is used for an array of machine components, such as bushings or bearings. Polyurethane’s uniquely high temperature resistance and strength make it a common candidate for roller coaster wheels.

ATVs, snowmobiles, and other recreational vehicles incorporate plastics in their designs to reduce weight and improve safety. HDPE and opaque polycarbonate are commonly machined into body panels, because their strength and flexibility make accidents less hazardous. ABS is often formed into lightweight dashboards and instrument panels. And LEXAN polycarbonate is used for shatterproof windows and windshields that combine safety with visibility.

While canoes and kayaks were traditionally made from wood, HDPE has become a go-to material because it is far more durable and able to withstand harsher rapids. Unlike wood, HDPE won’t rot or swell, requires virtually no maintenance, and is available in a variety of bright and attractive colors.

Skating and hockey rinks are enclosed by dasher board systems to protect spectators from flying pucks or colliding players. Metals were traditionally used for the lower layer, but can dent or crack upon impact, causing a major safety hazard. HDPE is becoming such a common replacement that it’s often referred to as puck board. In addition to improving safety, HDPE dasher boards can reduce costs and maintenance thanks to their durability and impact resistance. The upper glazing is often made from polycarbonate, which is transparent but virtually shatterproof, allowing fans a safe yet unobstructed view of the game.

HDPE is a vibrant, cost-effective solution for outdoor signage. Available in a wide variety of colors, it offers impact, abrasion, and UV resistance to retain its appearance in high traffic outdoor areas. Its chemical resistance makes it difficult to stain and easy to clean.

Recreational picnic tables are traditionally made of wood, which tends to splinter and rot. Newer table manufacturers are switching to HDPE, which offers a significantly longer lifespan, better durability, and no more rotting or splintering. SIMONA’s Polygrain® HDPE is machined with a woodgrain finish, offering the appearance of wood with all the performance benefits of HDPE.

Traditional playground equipment is generally made of wood and metal, which tend to splinter, rot, rust, or degrade with age. SIMONA’s Polytone® HDPE is a durable, moisture resistant material that can endure fluctuating weather conditions. It also comes in a variety of color combinations, which help create a more vibrant play space. Polytone can also be used for basketball backboards.

HDPE’s strength, durability, and abrasion resistance make it the ideal material for sleds and toboggans. Other materials may scratch, dent, or split due to the constant sliding, and wood may rot as it absorbs moisture from snow. HDPE can handle snow, rain, and constant sliding without sustaining major damage.