What is Nylon ？Nylon, also known as polyamide (PA), is a synthetic polymer with high tensile strength, excellent resistance to wear and abrasion, and a low coefficient of friction. It’s used in manufacturing and engineering applications.

How is nylon made?

Nylon is synthesised by the polymerisation of adipic acid and hexamethylene diamine. These raw materials are combined to form PA salt, which is then heated to form nylon polymer.

The polymer is then melted and extruded through a spinneret where it solidifies into long strands. These strands are stretched to increase their strength and elasticity. When the material is cooled, the fibres solidify and the material is ready for use.

Are there different types of nylon?

There are different types of PA, often referred to as ‘grades’. These have been developed for different applications and therefore offer unique properties and characteristics.

• Nylon 6. Known for its excellent mechanical properties, toughness and chemical resistance. It is widely used in applications such as automotive components, textiles and industrial parts. It is one of the most commonly used nylons in manufacturing.
• Nylon 6/6 (PA 6/6). Offers high strength, stiffness and thermal resistance, making it suitable for applications requiring mechanical stability, such as gears, bearings and structural components. Along with Nylon 6, it is one of the most commonly used nylons in manufacturing.
• Nylon 4/6 (PA 4/6). A blend of nylon 4 and nylon 6 that offers improved heat resistance and chemical stability. It is often used in high-temperature applications, including under-the-hood automotive components and industrial parts exposed to elevated temperatures.
• Nylon 6/10 (PA 6/10) and Nylon 6/12 (PA 6/12). Offers improved moisture resistance and lower water absorption compared to other types of PA. They are commonly used in the manufacture of tubes, hoses and other fluid handling components.
• Nylon 11 (PA 11) and Nylon 12 (PA 12). Speciality grades of PA known for their exceptional resistance to impact, abrasion and chemicals. They also have excellent flexibility and low moisture absorption. These grades are commonly used in applications such as fuel lines, hydraulic hoses and pneumatic tubing, particularly in the automotive and industrial sectors.

What manufacturing processes are commonly used with Nylon?

Nylon is used in a number of manufacturing processes. At Hubs we focus on the following.

• CNC Machining. CNC machining with PA is commonly used to produce high precision components, gears, bushings and other mechanical parts for engineering, manufacturing and industrial applications.
• 3D Printing. PA is a popular material for 3D printing, known for its strength, flexibility and durability. It is used in SLS and FDM 3D printing to produce prototypes, functional parts and components used in industries such as automotive, aerospace and consumer goods. However, it can be difficult to print with, requiring high temperatures and special printing conditions.
• Injection moulding. Known for its durability and heat resistance, PA is often used in injection moulding. This process allows for the efficient production of strong, intricate components.

What are the material properties of nylon?

Nylon’s popularity is partly due to its versatile properties, which often prove beneficial in a wide range of industrial applications. Let’s take a look at them.

• Strength and durability. PA has a high tensile strength compared to most other plastics, making it a robust and durable material for use in applications requiring mechanical strength and resistance to wear, impact and abrasion.
• Flexibility and Toughness. PA is known for its flexibility, allowing it to be formed into various shapes without breaking. It also has a high degree of resilience, allowing it to return to its original shape after deformation.
• Chemical resistance. PA is resistant to many chemicals, oils and solvents, making it suitable for use in industrial environments.
• Heat resistance. PA can withstand relatively high temperatures compared to other plastics without significant deformation, making it suitable for applications where thermal stability is essential.
• Electrical insulation. Nylon has good electrical insulation properties, making it suitable for applications where electrical insulation is required, such as electronic components and wiring.

How is nylon used? What can you make with nylon?

Nylon is a very versatile material and as such is used in a wide range of industries for a variety of applications. Here are some of the industries where PA is commonly used.

• Automotive. PA is used for its strength and heat resistance in the manufacture of components such as gears, bearings, engine covers and fuel lines.
• Consumer goods. Nylon’s high tensile strength, flexibility and abrasion resistance are used in the manufacture of consumer goods such as ropes, fishing lines, toothbrush bristles and zip fasteners.
• Industrial manufacturing. Components such as rollers, conveyor belts and machine parts are often made from PA because it is tough, chemical resistant and can withstand high levels of stress and friction.
• Electronics. Electrically insulating and temperature resistant, PA is often used in the electronics industry to make components such as connectors, insulators and circuit board fasteners.
• Aerospace. PA is used in the aerospace industry to produce components such as fasteners, bearings and structural parts that require lightweight materials with high tensile strength and resistance to harsh environmental conditions.

What are the drawbacks of nylon parts?

Understanding the limitations of nylon will help designers, engineers and manufacturers make informed decisions when selecting materials for specific applications. Here are some of the drawbacks commonly associated with nylon parts.

• Moisture absorption. Nylon has a tendency to absorb moisture from its environment, which can lead to dimensional changes and a reduction in some of its mechanical properties if the environment is too humid. However, moisture is also what gives nylon its flexibility and toughness.
• Sensitivity to UV radiation. Nylon can degrade under prolonged exposure to UV radiation with wavelengths of 290-315 nanometres. This can reduce its mechanical strength and overall performance. In addition, nylon will yellow with prolonged exposure to sunlight.
• High shrinkage rate. During the cooling process, nylon can experience significant shrinkage, which can create challenges in maintaining accurate dimensional tolerances in moulded parts due to warpage, especially in larger parts.
• Brittleness. Nylon can become brittle and stiff when used below its glass transition temperature, leading to part failure or mechanical instability.

Sourcing Simplified – Start Your Next Project With PROTO MFG

Are you looking for a reputable partner for your parts fabrication and machining projects? Look no further. At PROTO MFG, we specialize in CNC machining and related technologies, including sheet metal fabrication, rapid prototyping, etc. Whether it is a project with a simple design or parts with complex geometries, do not hesitate to contact us today!