Material Description
Nylon is a synthetic thermoplastic polymer characterized by its remarkable combination of material properties. It is known for its high tensile strength, which is a result of the strong molecular bonds in its polymer chains, making it an ideal choice for applications where durability and resilience are crucial. Nylon also exhibits excellent abrasion resistance, making it suitable for applications involving constant friction and wear. Furthermore, its low coefficient of friction allows for reduced energy consumption in moving parts, making it a popular choice for various mechanical components. In addition to its mechanical attributes, Nylon possesses good chemical resistance, resisting many common solvents and oils, making it suitable for a wide range of environments. It is also known for its moisture absorption, which can lead to dimensional changes when exposed to humidity, a property that needs to be considered in design. Nylon’s excellent electrical insulating properties and high melting point further extend its utility in electrical and engineering applications. Additionally, it is available in various formulations, with Nylon 6 and Nylon 6/6 being among the most commonly used variants, each offering distinct advantages depending on the specific requirements of the application. Overall, Nylon’s unique combination of properties makes it a versatile material used in industries ranging from automotive and textiles to consumer goods and engineering components.
Common Industry Applications
Nylon is used in industrial applications for its strong, durable, and lightweight properties, making it ideal for manufacturing components such as gears, bearings, and conveyor belts.
Sub-Processes
3D Printing – Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
| Density (g/cm³) | Tensile Yield Strength (MPa) | Flexural Strength (MPa) | Impact Strength (J/m) | Heat Deflection Temp (°C) | Thermal Conductivity (W/m·K) | Glass Transition Temp(°C) | UV Resistance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.13 - 1.15 | 50 - 85 | 75 - 110 | 50 - 200 | 90 - 150 | 0.25 - 0.5 | Varies | Sensitive to prolonged UV exposure |
Design Recommendation
Nylon is known for its strength and durability. Optimize your design for mechanical performance, but ensure good bed adhesion and minimize large, flat surfaces to prevent warping. Pay attention to the end-use environment and any necessary post-processing, such as annealing, which can enhance mechanical properties and dimensional stability.
Cost Saving Tip
For cost-effective nylon 3D printing, proper filament handling is crucial. Keeping the filament dry and stored in an airtight container is essential to prevent moisture absorption, which can negatively affect print quality and lead to waste. Additionally, adjusting print settings to control warping, minimize supports, and optimize infill patterns can reduce material consumption while maintaining part integrity.
