Manufacture of plastic plates, sheets, tubes and profiles

NACE code 22.21 covers the manufacture of a wide range of plastic products, including plates, sheets, tubes, and profiles. This industry plays a crucial role in the broader plastics and rubber manufacturing sector, providing essential materials and components for a diverse range of industries, from construction and packaging to automotive and electronics. The products generated by this industry are fundamental building blocks that enable the development of countless consumer and industrial goods, making it a vital part of the global economy.

The primary production techniques used in the manufacture of plastic plates, sheets, tubes, and profiles involve various plastic processing methods. These typically include extrusion, where molten plastic is forced through a die to create the desired shape, and thermoforming, where plastic sheets are heated and formed into the required profile using molds. Other techniques, such as injection molding and compression molding, may also be employed depending on the specific product and its intended application.

The main inputs required for the manufacture of plastic plates, sheets, tubes, and profiles include a variety of plastic resins, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). These raw materials are sourced from the 20.16 Manufacture of plastics in primary forms industry. Additionally, the industry relies on specialized machinery, including extruders, thermoforming equipment, and molds, as well as energy resources to power the production processes.

The primary outputs of NACE code 22.21 are the plastic plates, sheets, tubes, and profiles themselves. These products are then consumed by a wide range of other industries, including 23.11 Manufacture of glass and glass products, 25.21 Manufacture of central heating radiators and boilers, and 27.31 Manufacture of fibre optic cables. The versatility of these plastic products allows them to be used in a variety of applications, from construction and packaging to medical devices and consumer goods.