Co-Extrusion: Two Materials, Endless Possibilities

In manufacturing, innovation doesn’t always mean doing more — sometimes it means doing smarter. Co-extrusion is one of those smart solutions that allows two different materials to be combined into a single, continuous profile.

At Lincoln Plastics, our co-extrusion capability helps OEMs create products that are both functional and efficient, using the best properties of two compatible plastics in one process.

What Is Co-Extrusion?

Co-extrusion is the process of feeding two different materials through separate extruders into a single die, producing one unified profile.
Each material contributes specific characteristics — for example:

• A colored stripe added to a product for visual identification
• A durable outer layer over a more economical core
• A functional surface with a softer or smoother texture

Because both materials are extruded simultaneously, the layers bond together permanently without adhesives or secondary assembly.

How Lincoln Plastics Uses Co-Extrusion

Our current co-extrusion technology allows us to process two materials at once — typically compatible thermoplastics — to achieve unique performance or appearance results.

Some common applications include:

• Adding a contrasting stripe for safety or visibility on cord covers or conduits
• Creating an outer layer with enhanced weather or UV resistance
• Combining a rigid inner core with a more flexible exterior for impact absorption or aesthetics

This approach helps OEMs fine-tune both function and cost — achieving performance where it matters most.

Why Co-Extrusion Matters

For many customers, co-extrusion opens new design opportunities without major process changes. By combining two materials in a single run, manufacturers can:

• Improve part performance or appearance
• Reduce secondary processing steps
• Control costs by using premium material only where it’s needed

It’s a practical, efficient way to add value and differentiation.

Built for Collaboration

As with any extrusion project, success starts with collaboration. Our engineering team helps customers determine whether co-extrusion is the right fit based on material compatibility, tooling design, and application goals.

Whether you’re adding a color stripe or layering materials for performance, we’ll help you evaluate what’s possible within your requirements.

Contact us today to learn how co-extrusion can enhance your next product design.

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