Acetal (Polyoxymethylene, POM)
Acetal resins are among the strongest and stiffest of all thermoplastics, renowned for their excellent mechanical properties, such as high fatigue resistance, low moisture sensitivity, and superior chemical and solvent resistance. These resins also possess excellent electrical insulation properties, making them ideal for various industrial, automotive, and consumer applications. Acetal’s unique combination of strength, durability, and low friction allows it to excel in precision parts that require tight tolerances and repetitive mechanical motion.
Acetal resins are available in two primary forms: homopolymer and copolymer, each offering distinct advantages. Acetal homopolymer achieves higher mechanical strength and stiffness, making it ideal for applications that demand superior load-bearing performance. Acetal copolymer, on the other hand, provides easier processing, lower cost, and better thermal stability in environments prone to higher humidity, making it a more versatile option for broader applications.
Key Properties
- High tensile strength and stiffness: Among the strongest of thermoplastics, ensuring mechanical integrity in demanding applications.
- Low friction and excellent wear resistance: Ideal for parts with sliding surfaces or moving components.
- Low moisture absorption: Ensures dimensional stability even in humid conditions or in contact with water.
- Chemical and solvent resistance: Resistant to fuels, oils, greases, and many solvents, maintaining performance in harsh environments.
- Good electrical properties: Suitable for electrical applications requiring insulation and stability.
- Excellent fatigue resistance: Performs well under repeated mechanical stress, prolonging part lifespan.
Homopolymer vs. Copolymer
- Acetal Homopolymer: Offers superior mechanical properties, including higher tensile strength and rigidity. It is best suited for applications that require enhanced load-bearing capabilities and higher performance in terms of wear and fatigue resistance.
- Acetal Copolymer: Known for its improved processing characteristics and better performance in high-temperature or humid environments. Copolymer’s lower cost and ease of manufacturing make it ideal for applications where cost-efficiency and thermal stability are priorities.
Applications
Acetal resins are commonly used across a wide range of industries, including:
- Automotive: Ideal for fuel system components, gears, bearings, and structural parts requiring strength and chemical resistance.
- Industrial: Used in conveyor systems, valves, and other mechanical parts requiring low friction and wear resistance.
- Consumer Goods: Found in products like zippers, buckles, handles, and gears in appliances.
- Electrical & Electronics: Suitable for connectors, switches, and insulators due to its electrical insulating properties.
- Medical: Acetal is often used for precision medical devices and components due to its durability and resistance to sterilization processes.
Compound Options
Newko Polymers offers a range of Acetal compounds designed to meet specific performance needs across industries:
- General Purpose: Standard Acetal resins for a variety of mechanical applications.
- Low-High Viscosity: Options for processing ease, with high viscosity grades providing better strength and rigidity, and low viscosity grades offering improved mold flow.
- UV Stabilized: Protects against UV degradation, making it suitable for outdoor applications.
- Impact Modified/Toughened: Enhanced impact resistance for parts subjected to dynamic loads or high impact environments.
- Advanced/Chemically Lubricated Grades: Offers lower friction for moving components, reducing wear and extending part life.
- Glass Fiber Reinforced: Significantly increases stiffness and tensile strength, ideal for high-load applications.
- Teflon Powder Enhancement: Provides additional lubricity, reducing wear in sliding or moving parts.