Material selection is a key consideration when buying commercial playground equipment to ensure the safety, longevity and user satisfaction of the facility. Understanding the benefits of each material helps you make an informed decision.
HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)
Playground equipment is often made with HDPE.fromRGBO5. In addition to being one of the toughest and least subject materials known to mankind. Commonly used for slides, tunnels and panels etc. It is non-toxic, so it is fine to use with children and its durability allows you to leave them out in extreme weather. HDPE is proven to last 20 years with minimal maintenance per industry standards, making it more economical.
Galvanized Steel
Another popular material is galvanized steel, which many commercial playgrounds are made from as well. This is super strong material to handle heavy use on swings, climbing structures for the times with high traffic. Galvanizing is a process in which the steel gets coated with zinc to protect it from rust and corrosion. Because of this, galvanized steel is a good fit for use in outdoor applications where it can handle mother nature without getting worn down. Their research suggested that zinc coatings on galvanized steel can be expected to protect against atmospheric corrosion in rural areas for upwards of 50 years and over 20-25 years if located at the sea coast.
Rotomolded Plastic
High-density polyethylene (HDPE): Often used in children's playground, slide, seat and many other rotomolding products. This piece is rotated mold in one piece to create a seamless and durable item. It is relatively impact resistant, and can be easily molded into different shapes depending on the size of play. The rotomolded plastic is also UV-stabilized so it will not fade or deteriorate with sun exposure. With proper maintenance, can last up to 15 years.
Recycled Plastic Lumber
Recycled plastic lumber is increasingly becoming more popular in playground building and it environmentally friendly as well. This highly resilient, splintering-resistant material is constructed from recycled milk jugs and plastic containers, ensuring its durability against vandalism as well. On top of this low maintenance system, it does not warp or rot like standard wood. Studies have shown that recycled plastic lumber lasts over 50 years so when you buy it, you're choosing something sustainable and longevity.
Engineered Wood Fiber (EWF)
One of the most common playground surfaces is Engineered Wood Fiber (EWF). This material is ideal for cushioning, which means that your toddler's chances of being seriously injured from little falls have decreased. It is created from refined wood fibers, making it a very stable, cushioned surface. This gate is ASTM safety and accessibility certified, meets or exceeds only the highest standards & It's a Child Safe Gate. Maintenance, on the other hands is simply topping up material to maintain a depth of at least 12 inches high in order for your surface met safety ratings.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a top choice for its modern design and class-leading longevity. It is used in slides, climbers and many play components. Stainless Steel: Unlike other materials, stainless steel is rust and corrosion resistant. Even in humid conditions or salty environment. The smooth surface also allows for less friction allowing a faster, fun sliding experience. Many implementations last several decades: some of our installations are still functional after 30 years.
It is absolutely necessary to choose wisely when it comes to commercial playground equipment materials, and ensure the options you have a durable, safe for use as well as hard-wearing. Companies like Liben Group have mastered the art of producing good playground equipment, so that each completed piece meets strict safety and performance requirements. It also ensures that the environment is child-friendly and not only entertaining but pleasing to children.
The use of these materials in your playground design are not only making the children safe and happy but also prolonging its life expectancy, which is more sustainable.