PA plastic (polyamide)

Amide plastic is often used in gears, propellers, cable insulation, and door handles, for example. All polyamides are suitable for injection molding, extrusion, and blow molding. Products made of polyamide semi-crystalline plastic can be embossed, welded, processed, and vacuum metalized.

Nylatron GSM

Nylatron GS

Nylatron MD FG

Oilon plastic

What is PA plastic (amide plastic)?

Polyamide, abbreviated as PA and also called amide plastic, is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic characterized by good wear resistance, flexibility, and abrasion resistance. The material is particularly popular in engineering plastics due to its ability to withstand mechanical stress and chemicals. Amide plastics come in various types, each with different properties and applications. Common amide plastics include PA6, PA6.6, PA4,6, PA6G, PA11, and PA12, as well as the brands Nylatron and Oilon.

Strengths and capabilities of PA plastic

Properties

PA plastic (amide plastic) has an excellent balance of wear resistance, toughness and chemical resistance. The material is lightweight and has a low coefficient of friction, making it suitable for moving parts exposed to wear. It is resistant to oils, fats, and many chemicals, but can be sensitive to strong acids and oxidizing agents. PA plastic absorbs moisture, which can partially affect its dimensions and electrical properties, but this can be mitigated to some extent by adding and reinforcing with glass fiber.

Processing methods

All polyamides can be produced using various methods such as casting, injection molding and extrusion. PA plastic is also suitable for machining to meet specific requirements.

Common applications for amide plastic

Due to its wear resistance and durability, PA plastic is used in a wide range of industrial and technical contexts. It is often used for products in the automotive industry, defense, food industry, and manufacturing, such as:

  • Gears
  • Propellers
  • Stock
  • Bushings
  • Valve block
  • Machinery
  • Wear details
  • Rollers

Differences between various PA plastics

There are several types of PA plastic with different properties. Each variant is tailored for specific needs depending on temperature, flexibility, and chemical resistance. Here is an overview of some of the most common types.

  • Polyamide (PA) 6 plastic

  • PA 6 is the standard type most widely used in industry. It has good wear resistance, flexibility, and chemical resistance. The material is readily available and is used in many industrial applications such as gears, sliding bearings, and machine parts.

  • Polyamide (PA) 6G plastic

  • PA 6G is a cast variant with higher dimensional stability and slightly better mechanical properties than standard PA 6. It is particularly well suited for large and complex parts, as well as for custom-molded components.

  • Polyamide (PA) 6.6 plastic

  • PA 6.6 has a higher melting point, better heat resistance, and greater strength than PA 6 and PA 6G. The plastic absorbs less moisture and is used where requirements for temperature, strength, and stability are higher, such as in moving machine parts. PA 6.6 also has higher wear resistance than PA 6.

  • Nylatron

  • The Nylatron brand includes several variants with different types of properties. They are modified, heat-stabilized PA 6 with improved mechanical strength and fatigue resistance. These plastics have very high sliding and wear performance, making them ideal for gears, sliding rails, and heavily loaded moving parts in heavy industry.

Limitations of POM plastic – when to avoid it

Just like other plastics, PA plastic has certain limitations. It should be avoided in environments with very strong acids, strong oxidizing agents, and prolonged UV exposure, as these can degrade the material. High moisture absorption affects dimensions and electrical properties, so other materials – such as polypropene (PP) – may perform better in humid environments.

Why choose our PA plastic

Carlsson & Möller offers high-quality PA plastic with consistent performance, suitable for demanding industrial environments. With product variants that cover both technical and hygienic needs, we ensure that every delivery meets relevant standards. We also provide professional support throughout your process, helping you from material selection to the finished product.

Our services

Common questions about amide plastic

  • Can PA plastic be used outdoors?

  • Absolutely, but it may require UV protection or additives, as untreated PA can degrade from prolonged exposure to sunlight.

  • What is the difference between PA6 and PA66?

    • Melting point: PA66 has a higher melting point than PA6, meaning it can withstand higher temperatures before deforming, making it more stable in heat-exposed environments.
    • Mechanical strength: PA66 is generally stronger and stiffer than PA6. It maintains its shape better under load and provides a longer service life for components subjected to mechanical stress.
    • Moisture absorption: PA6 absorbs more moisture than PA66. Since moisture absorption can affect dimensional stability and mechanical properties, PA66 is better suited for applications with high requirements for dimensional accuracy.

  • Which chemicals can PA plastic withstand?

  • PA plastic is resistant to many oils, fats, gasoline, and alkaline substances, but it is attacked by strong acids and certain solvents such as phenols and formic acid.

Contact us

Do you have questions about PA plastic or need help with material selection? Get in touch today, and we'll guide you to the right solution for your needs.

Contact us