Our customers in the UK and Europe mould and supply a vast range of complex plastic parts and assemblies to automotive companies such as JLR, Nissan, Renault, Bentley, BMW and Toyota.
From handling ‘just in time’ supply, to registering grades for IMDS, we have years of experience in supplying engineering polymers specified by the automotive industry. Many of our customers within this sector are operating to IATF 16949:2016
We have worked on many projects over the years, collaborating directly with the automotive OEMs, with Tier 1 moulders or their sub-contract moulders through the various development stages.
Our automotive customer base continues to evolve and our team understands the stringent requirements and standards. As car manufacturers move towards greater use of electric engine technology, their polymer requirements change, as they seek to reduce car weight.
In addition to being able to supply all the most popular automotive grades, we can offer grades that provide solutions for the following industry demands:
With a wealth of product knowledge and many years of experience in supplying both commercial and military customers within this sector, we are well placed to supply the specified grades required for Aerospace applications.
We have access to a wide range of high performance polymers including: weight reduction and wear resistance grades, as well as many other brands known for their outstanding mechanical properties.
We understand that the Aerospace sector is a strongly regulated market with critical focus on safety and performance. With this in mind, we ensure that all of our materials meet the set criteria stated by our customers before supplying.
For demanding, critical tolerance electronics applications such as connectors, sensors and LED’s, highly specified engineering grades and high-performance polymers are required.
Our customers produce parts for industry-leading manufacturers of electronics components with tolerances as low as 50 microns.
Nylons and PBT have long been some of the most widely used materials in this sector but in recent years have been joined by many of the high-performance plastics such as PES, PEI, PPS, PEEK and LCP.
We fully understand the strict requirements in medical and healthcare applications and have access to many medical grades.
Medical and healthcare applications are usually highly specified. During the COVID-19 pandemic Hardies supplied numerous materials at short notice for component parts for ventilators, respirators, COVID-19 test kits, face shields and oxygenators to name but a few.
As all our materials are supplied with full documentation from the manufacturer, we are able to meet the strict supply demands of our customers in this area.
Our customers operating within the Defence sector produce a vast range of technical parts to understandably demanding standards of the MOD and others. As examples, parts manufactured by our customers have included components for breathing apparatus systems, gas canisters, communication devices and even fighter jet nose cones.
The supply and manufacture of parts for the Defence sector are tightly controlled and as all our materials are supplied with full documentation from the manufacturer, we are able to meet the strict supply requirements of our customers in this area.
Specific material demands for the Defence sector can include:
We supply trade moulding companies across the UK and have access to massive levels of European stock. We appreciate that all our customers each have different requirements and we will always do what we can to provide a solution.
As the UK’s leading independent engineering polymer supplier, we are the only distributor to offer materials from all of the major manufacturers.
Our simple pricing structure means there are no administration charges and our Sales Team have a wealth of personal experience within the sector.
We’ve been supplying Injection Moulders in the UK for over 60 years, so you can be assured that we have probably handled most industry requests during this time.
If you are under pressure to reduce your costs, in addition to our Price Check, we have two further possible ways to provide you with the reductions you need:
Contact us with the grade, colour and lot size you need and we will respond with a no obligation quotation.
With an established supply chain of more than 350 partners across Europe and a database with thousands of products at our fingertips, you can leave the searching to us.
Hardies are completely independent, meaning that we are not bound to sell only certain manufacturers’ grades and are confident of being able to find exactly what you are looking for. With one call to us, your search is broadened right across Europe.
Our searches are free and there is no commitment to buy. What could be more straightforward?
How do you know if the price you are offered is the best price on the market? Prices vary enormously and one customer can often be paying significantly more than another for the same material.
Your current polymer supplier may be the ‘exclusive authorised distributor’, but that doesn’t mean there is no other purchasing alternative. Hardies have over 350 supply partners ensuring we can offer you all the major brands of OEM-specified grades.
We price-check the same product across multiple suppliers and multiple countries, so that we give you the very best price every time.
Don’t be forced to accept larger quantities of material than you need. Our supply chain enables us to deliver as little as 25kg, keeping your inventory in check and enabling your business to work more effectively and economically.
If you are curious about how we can do this when your current supplier cannot, phone us and we will happily explain why.
Hardies take calls every week from moulders who have suddenly been faced with an extended lead time.
Accessing stock in over 350 locations, means that more often than not, we are able to supply exactly the required material in order to meet production deadlines.
Hardie Polymers works with many of the worlds leading polymer manufacturers. We offer a comprehensive range of standard and filled Compounds and also colour Masterbatches.
We can also develop grades to meet specific needs. For example, to enhance mechanical properties, reduce warpage, improve surface finish etc. or to help provide cost down.
We are also able to offer re-engineered compound polymers in materials such as PC/ABS, TPU, PC etc. Furthermore, these are produced to the highest standards and help provide attractive commercial savings against prime grades. Widely used in the European automotive industry with the relevant approvals and often available in black, natural and also custom colours.
Hardies have supplied Recycled plastics for nearly 30 years, which means we really do have as much experience in this area as anyone within the industry.
We have an excellent track record of specifying and supplying these materials into highly demanding applications, such as automotive parts for Jaguar Land Rover and Nissan. Additionally, we have supplied demanding recycled materials to the Stanley Black & Decker Group since 2005 and were instrumental in introducing them to recycled materials within Europe.
The most widely used recycled materials are mainly commodity materials such as Polypropylene (PP), Polyethylene (PE) and Polystyrene (PS). The PP can often be talc filled glass or fibre filled. We also offer a full range of recycled engineering polymers including PA, PC/ABS, ABS, PC and PEEK.
From April 2022, the plastic packaging tax will see companies paying £200 per tonne of packaging made from less than 30% recycled plastic. This tax has been created to encourage the use of more recycled plastic and with our experience we can find you the optimum solution.
When considering the different types of Bio/Eco plastics that are available, it is important to differentiate between the actual origin of the material and the desired function of the material, as confusion often arises between durable renewable or biomass derived plastics and biodegradable plastics.
Some of the main options currently available include:
● Bio-origin polymers, including PLA – plastics based on renewable sources i.e. corn starch, cellulose, sugar cane or from other natural waste products. Can also include water soluble polymers.
● Biodegradable & Compostable materials (or additives.) which in some cases may provide non-toxic by-products e.g. biomass, after being broken down by naturally occurring bacteria
● Oxo-Biodegradable – A masterbatch additive, for adding to PP or PE. This type of additive tackles the key issue of plastic litter in the environment. It is important to note that this option is not a compostable material, but an additive which breaks down and destroys the plastic at the end of its useful life, if it has not been collected for recycling.
Please note that we only supply polymer in granular form for Injection Moulding or Extrusion applications. We do not supply polymer in rod, sheet or block form.
Our team are available from 8am-5pm and we always aim to get back to you the same day. If you would rather contact us immediately please join us on live chat or give us a call on 0141 952 1900.
We can source any brand, grade or quantity from our network of over 350 international suppliers, making us the UK’s leading independent distributor of engineering polymers.
Discover how our innovative and alternative business model can save you money, whilst reducing delivery times >
As a deliberately unauthorised distributor, Hardies are not handcuffed by only being able to supply specific brands.
We have the flexibility to be able to source virtually any polymer in the world, saving you time and money in the process.
Everything we source is supplied in the original manufacturer’s packaging with the manufacturer’s Certificate of Analysis. Minimum order quantities can be delivered from as little as 25kg upwards.
If you can’t find the exact polymer or brand you require – call us and we will search for you, with no obligation to purchase.
Bartosz, Head of Strategic Sourcing, loves a challenge.
Amongst others, brands that we have previously
supplied include >
Lexan™, Makrolon®, Iupilon®, Trirex®, Lupoy®, Carbotex®, Ramtough
Bayblend®, Cycoloy™, Lupoy®, Pulse®, Romiloy®, Gebablend
Polylac®, Cycolac™, LG ABS, Elix®, Lustran®, Novodur®, Kumho, Magnum™, Gebabs
Hostaform®, Delrin®, Iupital®, Kepital®, Formocon®, Kocetal®, Tarnoform®, Tenac™, Ultraform®
Zytel®, Ultramid®, Durethan®, Technyl®, Akulon®, Plustek, Polimid, Rilsan®, Stanyl®, Vydyne®
Plexiglas®, Acrypet®, Sumipex®
Valox™, Crastin®, Pocan®, Ultradur®, Lupox®, Politer, Ramster
Santoprene™, Desmopan®, Elastollan®, Hytrel®, Megol®, Desmovit®, Laripur®
Noryl™, Makroblend®, Ixef®, Lubricomp™, Xenoy™, Pebax®, Polyketone, Zylar®
All brand names listed are trademarks of the manufacturers and we are not an authorised distributor for these manufacturers.
® – Trademarks owned or used by the producers.
™ – Registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (status in the U.S. only, registration status in other geographies may be different)
Amongst others, brands that we have previously
supplied include >
Lexan™
Makrolon®
Iupilon®
Trirex®
Lupoy®
Carbotex®
Ramtough
Bayblend®
Cycoloy™
Lupoy®
Pulse®
Romiloy®
Gebablend
Polylac®
Cycolac™
LG ABS
Elix®
Lustran®
Novodur®
Kumho
Magnum™
Gebabs
Hostaform®
Delrin®
Iupital®
Kepital®
Formocon®
Kocetal®
Tarnoform®
Tenac™
Ultraform®
Zytel®
Ultramid®
Durethan®
Technyl®
Akulon®
Plustek
Polimid
Rilsan®
Stanyl®
Vydyne®
Plexiglas®
Acrypet®
Sumipex®
Valox™
Crastin®
Pocan®
Ultradur®
Lupox®
Politer
Ramster
Santoprene™
Desmopan®
Elastollan®
Hytrel®
Megol®
Desmovit®
Laripur®
Noryl™
Makroblend®
Ixef®
Lubricomp™
Xenoy™
Pebax®
Polyketone
Zylar®
All brand names listed are trademarks of the manufacturers and we are not an authorised distributor for these manufacturers.
® – Trademarks owned or used by the producers.
™ – Registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (status in the U.S. only, registration status in other geographies may be different)
Amongst others, brands that we have previously supplied include >
Vectra®, Zenite®
Kynar®, Solef®, Dyneon™
Fortron®, Ryton®
K-Resin®, Kibiton ® Q-Resin
Udel®, Radel®, Ultrason®
Ultem®
Ketaspire®, Victrex®
All brand names listed are trademarks of the manufacturers and we are not an authorised distributor for these manufacturers.
® – Trademarks owned or used by the producers.
™ – Registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (status in the U.S. only, registration status in other geographies may be different)
Amongst others, brands that we have previously supplied include >
Vectra®
Zenite®
Kynar®
Solef®
Dyneon™
Fortron®
Ryton®
K-Resin®, Kibiton ® Q-Resin
Udel®
Radel®
Ultrason®
Ultem®
Ketaspire®
Victrex®
All brand names listed are trademarks of the manufacturers and we are not an authorised distributor for these manufacturers.
® – Trademarks owned or used by the producers.
™ – Registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (status in the U.S. only, registration status in other geographies may be different)
Sustainability is vital to not only meet customer and consumer demand, it is crucial that ethically, we all play our part in future-proofing our industry and always doing our very best for the planet.
Increasingly we are asked to source products that meet greener specifications and our team are happy to provide options and guidance in this area. Sustainable polymers generally fall into two category types: Recycled Plastics and Bio/Eco Polymers.
Hardies have supplied Recycled plastics for nearly 30 years, which means we really do have as much experience in this area as anyone within the industry.
Hardies have supplied Recycled plastics for nearly 30 years, which means we really do have as much experience in this area as anyone within the industry.
This is a complex area with many different factors to consider when identifying a suitable sustainable option for a given application. We will work with you to find the optimum solution.
This is a complex area with many different factors to consider when identifying a suitable sustainable option for a given application. We will work with you to find the optimum solution.
There are different ways that our determined and dynamic team can help your business. Explore the following five areas to find out how our unique business model can add value.
Our philosophy is to help our customers retain and win business and hopefully make their lives just a little bit easier too. Although we can’t wave a magic wand, by thinking outside the box and looking for solutions to the problems, we are able to help on most occasions.
We have a vast depth of experience and expertise across a wide variety of industry sectors. Although Hardies can provide materials to virtually any sector, the majority of our requests come from the following industries:
The history of our business goes back almost 100 years and Hardies have been supplying plastics moulding companies since the 1960s. We are an ambitious team who work hard to find exactly what our customers are looking for and 95% of the time we are able to do just that. We are proud to be seen as positive disruptors within the industry offering best-in-class service for our customers.
Click on this timeline to see the gradual evolution of our business
When working in collaboration with Hardies, you can be confident that you are safe in the hands of a respected and pioneering leader within the plastics industry.
When working in collaboration with Hardies, you can be confident that you are safe in the hands of a respected and pioneering leader within the plastics industry.
We are a customer-focused business and proud of our track record in proactively helping our customers. Here are just a few of the words of appreciation we’ve received.
We are a customer-focused business and proud of our track record in proactively helping our customers. Here are just a few of the words of appreciation we’ve received.
Hardies have been an outstanding supplier to our site for nearly 30 years.
They understand what our industry is all about, how demanding it is and with their can-do attitude, are always there to support us in times of need. Good people to have in your corner!
Although Hardie Polymers are a relatively new supplier for us at AKI, they have quickly become our ‘go to’ distributor.
Their material prices are competitive and their deliveries on time. Above all, their customer service is exceptional!
Having being let down by another supplier, within just two hours of our initial call to their office, Hardies had secured the material we urgently required.
With their personal approach, empathy and agility we were won over. We always know that their whole team will add as much value as possible.
The helpful advice and speedy delivery from Hardie Polymers have been immensely helpful for us in our urgent production of a stripped-down, Covid Ventilator for lower income countries across Africa.
Hardies have helped us frequently with materials over the years. They have quick lead times and their prices are very competitive. We would certainly recommend Hardies for your plastic raw material requirements.
We have found Hardie Polymers to be a great partner. When we initially started the business some 15 years ago the support and advice offered by Fergus and his team was exceptional and this level of service and support continues to this day.
They are a pleasure to deal with, with a great product range and always available to help out.
Hardie Polymers have become my first port of call for all new & existing material requirements and 99% of the time they are able to help us.
Extremely friendly, helpful, flexible and communicative, their ability to pluck obscure materials from across the globe at competitive pricing is unmatched.
Hardie Polymers have been a preferred supplier to Canyon now for over 25 years: what I like most is their attitude – make it happen with no drama!
The key values that we need from all our suppliers are: competitiveness, good communication and integrity – and Hardies tick the box on all three.
Hardie Polymers have an undoubted expertise in sourcing materials. This enables them to obtain grades, which their competitors are often not able to offer.
Couple this with good rates and a friendly, professional service, I would recommend you include them in your supplier portfolio.
Hardie Polymers supply a complete package of competitive pricing, combined with the flexibility to meet our demanding production schedules.
Especially pleasing has been the support offered in material cost down projects.
We have found Hardie Polymers to be a supplier that we’ve come to rely on more and more in recent years. It’s often difficult to find an alternative source for particular grades yet Hardies seem to have such a network of connections they can obtain almost any material.
Most often our first choice for materials, their approachable and friendly staff always make it easy.
Hardie Polymers are a delight to deal with, with very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful staff. Their ever-increasing range of products and their ability to source unusual grades is always greatly appreciated, allowing us to pass on material developments to our customers.
We would recommend them to all.
Hardie Polymers have become my first port of call for all new & existing material requirements and 99% of the time they are able to help us.
Extremely friendly, helpful, flexible and communicative, their ability to pluck obscure materials from across the globe at competitive pricing is unmatched.
Hardie Polymers have been a preferred supplier to Canyon now for over 25 years: what I like most is their attitude – make it happen with no drama!
The key values that we need from all our suppliers are: competitiveness, good communication and integrity – and Hardies tick the box on all three.
Hardie Polymers have an undoubted expertise in sourcing materials. This enables them to obtain grades, which their competitors are often not able to offer.
Couple this with good rates and a friendly, professional service, I would recommend you include them in your supplier portfolio.
Hardie Polymers supply a complete package of competitive pricing, combined with the flexibility to meet our demanding production schedules.
Especially pleasing has been the support offered in material cost down projects.
We have found Hardie Polymers to be a supplier that we’ve come to rely on more and more in recent years. It’s often difficult to find an alternative source for particular grades yet Hardies seem to have such a network of connections they can obtain almost any material.
Most often our first choice for materials, their approachable and friendly staff always make it easy.
Hardie Polymers are a delight to deal with, with very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful staff. Their ever-increasing range of products and their ability to source unusual grades is always greatly appreciated, allowing us to pass on material developments to our customers.
We would recommend them to all.
Hardie Polymers have been supplying the Plastic Injection Moulding industry since its inception in1960. As you would expect, we have amassed a wealth of insights and knowledge regarding the use of polymers within a variety of sectors. This knowledge sharing is provided to inform the next generation of material processors and engineers.
In injection moulding, weld lines (knit lines) form when two melt fronts meet. If the melt fronts do not coalesce completely, at best there will be a cosmetic flaw. At worst there will be a mechanical weak-spot, with strengths of the order of 10 - 90 % of the material potential.
Read more >Friction is an important property for thermoplastics in bearings and gears but also has a part to play in assembly of plastic parts (snap-fit and interference-fit) and ejection during moulding.
Read more >
