Even if you regularly use mass transit or public transport, chances are you don't realize how much of your surroundings are made of plastic. But commercial transportation plastic is being used in everything from buses to railcars to ambulances to help make these vehicles safer, lighter and more fuel efficient. Find out what parts of your public transportation vehicles are made of plastic — some of them might surprise you!
Storage Cabinets & Bins
Whether it's a full overhead bin or just a cabinet door, plastic for commercial vehicles is used to make sturdy, lightweight storage units to stow away supplies or belongings on long trips. Acrylic sheet and polycarbonate sheet are both commonly used for this application thanks to their lightness and durability — both are resistant to impact and abrasions. Not to mention they can be formed into any shape or size, making them easy to customize for the specific needs of a commercial vehicle.
Transparent Partitions
Acrylic and polycarbonate are also used for the partitions sometimes seen on the backs of train cars and bus seats, or separating the operator from the passengers. They can come in colors like bronze or gray for privacy or clear as a general guard. Plastic partitions are a great choice because they're resistant to yellowing over time, as well as scratches and flames.
Windows & Windshields
Commercial vehicle plastic, especially polycarbonate, is much stronger than glass — 250 times stronger, as a matter of fact. Plastic glazing for windows and windshields is frequently used to help mass transit vehicles resist impact and keep passengers safer in the event of an accident.
Mirrors
Did you know plastic could be used to make mirrors? Both acrylic and polycarbonate can be continuously processed until they are as reflective as a glass mirror, but still much stronger. On top of strength, plastic mirrors are also heat-resistant and UV-stabilized, meaning they can handle long hours in the heat and sunshine of summer.
Flooring
Plastic for commercial transportation is commonly used for floor paneling, providing a non-slip surface to increase passenger and operator safety. The plastic is also sturdy, so it can stand up to hundreds of thousands of footsteps before needing to be replaced. Cleanup is also a cinch since any accidents can easily be wiped up and sanitized without affecting the quality of the plastic.
Learn Even More About Commercial Transportation Plastic
A&C Plastics has floor to ceiling knowledge about vehicle plastic and its benefits to mass transit — and to personal vehicles, too! If you're interested in learning more or choosing us as your partner in plastic, head to our information center or contact us today.