Resin Families

Polyamide (PA or Nylon)

Polyamide, also known as PA or Nylon, is a powerhouse with high strength, temperature and chemical resistance.

All Resin Families

Nylon 6 and nylon 66 have good mechanical properties, creep resistance, temperature resistance, chemical resistance, and tribological (friction and wear) properties. In addition, nylon is easy to injection mold and extrude.

Nylon, however, will absorb moisture that can alter its physical properties. This is why nylon datasheets typically list DAM and conditioned values for the properties. Care must be taken when designing with nylon that the end-use environment is taken into consideration.

Nylons tend to provide good resistance to most chemicals; however, they can be attacked by strong acids and alcohols.

Polymer Characteristics

  • Good strength and stiffness
  • Good temperature resistance
  • Good impact / toughness
  • Good chemical resistance
  • Good tribological properties
  • Good creep resistance

Grades

  • Glass fiber
  • Glass bead
  • Aramid fiber
  • Carbon fiber
  • Glass fiber/mineral reinforced
  • Mineral
  • Flame retardant
  • UV stabilized
  • Hydrolysis resistant grades
  • Impact modified
  • Nucleated
  • Lubricated
  • Heat stabilized

Processing Methods

  • Injection molding
  • Extrusion
  • Co-extrusion
  • Blow molding
  • Film

Typical Applications

  • Connectors, switches
  • Brackets, housings
  • Intake manifolds, radiator tanks, door handles, mirror housings
  • Gears, cams, bearing
  • Vacuum cleaner handle
  • Fasteners
  • Power tool housings
  • Metal replacement

Nylon 6 versus 66

Nylon 66 has these advantages over Nylon 6:

  • Higher temperature resistance
  • Higher strength
  • Higher stiffness
  • Lower moisture absorption
  • Better abrasion resistance

Nylon 6 has these advantages over Nylon 66:

  • Slightly lower density
  • Better toughness
  • Better surface appearance
  • Lower processing temperature

In many applications, Nylon 6 and Nylon 66 can be interchangeable.

Trade Names

  • Solvay Technylstar®
  • BASF Ultramid®
  • Ravago Hylon®