Plastics Unlimited
Plastics Unlimited, based in Preston, Iowa, specializes in custom thermoforming, composites, and urethane molding, serving diverse industries such as agriculture, construction, and medical. The company is known for its patented Tooless Engineered Composites® (TEC®) process and commitment to green innovation.
Company Overview
Plastics Unlimited operates out of a 130,000-square-foot facility in Preston, Iowa. The company specializes in custom thermoforming, composites, and urethane molding capabilities. Serving various industries such as agriculture, construction, medical, OEM, outdoor/recreation, transportation, and material handling, Plastics Unlimited has established itself as a versatile and innovative manufacturer.
Advanced Manufacturing Processes
Plastics Unlimited has developed a patented process called Tooless Engineered Composites® (TEC®). This process combines the speed of thermoforming with the strength and durability of composites. TEC® allows for the incorporation of unique structures using core materials like foam, balsa wood, honeycomb, steel, and aluminum. This advanced technique produces minimal to no VOCs, making it environmentally friendly.
Industry Certifications and Awards
Plastics Unlimited is AS9100D and ISO 9001:2015 certified, highlighting its commitment to quality and industry standards. The company has won numerous awards, including the ACMA Composites Sustainability Award and the John Deere Achieving Excellence Award, recognizing its contributions to sustainability and excellence in manufacturing.
Expansion and Workforce
In March 2023, Plastics Unlimited expanded its facility by 30,000 square feet, bringing the total manufacturing space to 130,000 square feet. The company has also increased its workforce from 100 to 140 employees to support this expanded operation. The addition of four new robots, extra assembly space, three new thermoformers, and increased warehouse capacity underscores the company’s growth and enhanced production capabilities.
Green Innovation and Sustainability
Plastics Unlimited is committed to green innovation and global stewardship. The company recycles thousands of pounds of plastic regrind every day and integrates petroleum alternatives like soy oil in resins. This commitment to sustainability is evident in their processes and products, which aim to reduce environmental impact while maintaining high quality and performance.