Plastic
Here’s a concise overview of engineering plastics and their key features for your ref.
1. POM (Polyoxymethylene / Acetal)
Properties: High stiffness, low friction, excellent wear resistance.
Pros: Durable, retains shape under stress.
Cons: Poor acid resistance.
Applications: Gears, bearings, automotive parts.
2. PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone)
Properties: Extreme heat/chemical resistance, lightweight.
Pros: Biocompatible, retains strength at 250°C+.
Cons: Expensive, difficult to process.
Applications: Aerospace, medical implants, oil/gas components.
3. PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene / Teflon®)
Properties: Non-stick, chemically inert, low friction.
Pros: Withstands extreme temps (-200°C to 260°C).
Cons: Low wear resistance, soft.
Applications: Non-stick coatings, seals, lab equipment.
4. PPS (Polyphenylene Sulfide)
Properties: Flame-retardant, chemical/heat resistant.
Pros: Dimensional stability, electrically insulating.
Cons: Brittle, costly.
Applications: Electrical connectors, pumps, automotive sensors.
5. PC/ABS (Polycarbonate + ABS Blend)
Properties: Impact-resistant, heat-resistant, rigid.
Pros: Combines PC’s toughness with ABS’s processability.
Cons: UV-sensitive.
Applications: Automotive dashboards, electronics housings.
6. PA (Polyamide/Nylon – Grades like PA6, PA66, PA12)
Properties: High strength, wear-resistant, heat-tolerant.
Pros: Good fatigue resistance.
Cons: Absorbs moisture, affecting dimensions.
Applications: Industrial gears, sportswear, fuel lines.
Engineering plastics are designed for demanding environments (high heat, stress, chemicals). They’re costlier than standard plastics but excel in precision, durability, and performance. Let me know if you need help matching materials to specific projects!
