Thermoplastic compounds, used in the majority of electronic applications, are extruded using heat and pressure. When heated they soften and when cooled they retain their given size and shape. Generally, thermoplastics are lower in cost, lighter weight, easier to color, and have better electrical characteristics than thermosetting materials. They can be re-heated and re-extruded over and over, if desired. Most Alpha Wire products are constructed using thermoplastic materials.