Basic Plastic Plugs and How They Are Used

Keeping containers closed with an airtight seal was much harder before the invention and widespread use of plastic. Did you know that most containers had to use metal lids? And if an airtight seal was necessary, the lids had to be shrunk and sealed much like the process of canning food into traditional glass jars. Plastic has taken over most of the packaging world. There are good reasons behind this. Plastics are inexpensive, durable, and easy to make completely airtight. Factories all over take advantage of the benefits that these plastic containers can bring.

Many closures for containers are made from plastic. These have become a popular choice for the temporary closing of containers in use and for previously-opened containers. The plugs prevent the contents of a container from leaking out and help extend the life of the product inside the container. These plugs can create an airtight seal that is ideal for preventing the evaporation of liquids and contamination of the product that is stored inside.

A variety of factories help create their own customized plastic plugs for specific applications. But there are four main types of plugs that most factories can use for different scenarios. Most of these prevent the need for creating customized stoppers for different containers and products.

Tapered: These plugs are designed to fit in a simple opening. They are narrow at one end and they expand to a larger size on the other end. This makes them easy to place into a hole and plug it up without having to worry about the plug falling into the containers.

Push-fit: These plugs are similar and are designed to fit flush with the exterior of the container.

Cylinder valves: These valves are designed to be used as closures and are usually used with volatile materials, like gasoline.

Threaded plugs: These are used to screw in container openings. This provides an airtight seal that will not pop out of place.