How does the shrinkage rate of polypropylene affect outdoor armchair dimensional accuracy?
The shrinkage rate of polypropylene plays a crucial role in determining the dimensional accuracy of outdoor armchairs. As a common thermoplastic used in plastic furniture manufacturing, polypropylene undergoes contraction as it cools after injection molding. A higher shrinkage rate can lead to warping, uneven surfaces, or misaligned joints in the final product, compromising structural integrity and aesthetics. Manufacturers must account for material shrinkage during mold design, typically adjusting dimensions by 1-2% to compensate. Factors like cooling time, wall thickness, and filler additives also influence the outcome. Properly managed shrinkage ensures durable, well-fitting outdoor furniture that maintains its shape under varying weather conditions.