A Guide To Plastics
Nylon All grades toughness and resiliency and have high fatigue strength. Resistance to oils and hydrocarbon
solvents is also good. Almost all formulations are also extinguishing and retain stable mechanical properties at
temperatures from -75°F to above 225°F. They are widely used for latches, came, gears, and many other
moving parse clue to their excellent abrasion and impact resistance. Nylon is also available in a variety of
glass-filled grades, further enhancing its mechanical properties.
Acetal (DELRIN) displays good impact resistance,dimensional stability and outstanding surface hardness due to
its high Degree of crystallinity it has high dielectric strength and is resistant to many solvents it also exhibits
negligible water absorption. Typical applications include roller bearings, gears, reels, counters, control came,
valves, and pump parse.
Polycarbonate (LEXAN) exhibits the highest impact strength over a range of temperatures from -60°F to 270°F.
it is fine for all precision parts, or where transparency is desired. Its water-clear transmittance (89%) makes it
excellent for visor or guards. It shows good creep resistance and has a temperature independent dielectric
constant, as well as good insulating properties.
Polypropylene has good impact resistance and structural rigidity. It is unaffected by moot solvents at room
temperature. PP has excellent insulating properties and is extremely lightweight. its high fatigue strength makes it
ideal under cyclic loading conditions.
ULTEM (Polyetherimide) keeps hardness, and mechanical properties from -40°F to 356°F. If is
radiation-resistant microwave transparent and is naturally flame retardant. Reinforced grades have even higher
mechanical strength. Because of its unequaled properties, ULTEM is the ideal replacement for steel and other
metals. It also has a wide range of electronic and medical applications
ABS has excellent impact strength and impact resistance. Used extensively in appliances, automotive and
computer components. May be painted or plated
Polyethylene is unique because of its flexibility at low temperatures, excellent electrical resistance, and low
dielectric constant. PE's self-lubricating properties also make it ideal for applications such as rollers, skids and
other end uses which call for a non-stick low-friction material. PE is available in a wide range of densities
including Ultra High Modular Weight for gears, driven, impellers, came, etc.
Teflon (Polytetrafluoroethylene), with an extremely low coefficient of friction, makes the ideal choice where
surface wear might otherwise be a problem. Teflon also exhibits a useful service life from below -100°F to
500°F. Its resistance to solvents in also excellent throughout a wide range of temperature. its low dielectric
constant and electrical resistance also remain constant throughout this range of temperature. Teflon is a
registered trademark of DuPont.
PVC properties include chemical inertness, water corrosion and weather resistance, high strength-to-weight
ratio, tough dent resisting, electrical and thermal insulation. it has continuous resistance to heatfrom120°-160°F.
Isoplast (Glass-filled Polyurethane) has excellent chemical, solvent and abrasion resistance. Isoplast has a
high notchecl impact strength, low moisture sensitivity and a working temperature of 197°F. Excellent for
strength.