Polyamide (Nylon)
| Symbol: | PA |
| Crystallinity: | Crystalline |
| Trade Names: | Ultramid, Vydyne, Zytel Wellamid |
Description:
Nylon is a versatile resin that is tough, strong, and stiff. It resists fatigue and repeated impact. The three major types (PA66, PA6 and PA612) are all tough and chemically resistant. PA66 is tough and stiff, PA612 has lower moisture absorption and greater dimensional stability and PA6 is more flexible for high impact.
Processing Considerations:
- Residence Time: Residence time ranges from 1.5 to 5 minutes.
- Back Pressure: 250 PSI (or 2500 plastic pressure) or less is recommended.
- Drying: Material must be dried between 150°F and 225°F depending on the type of nylon.
- RPM: Recommended RPM is 30 or greater.
Screw Design Based on:
- High Compression Ratio
- Medium Transition Length
- Shallow Meter Channel Depth
Other Information:
- Mixer: Low to high shear mixing screws can be used to process PA.
- Barrier: A barrier screw design may be required depending upon which nylon is being processed.
- Custom Design: Custom designed screws specific to nylon are recommended over general purpose screws.
- Recommended Valve: Valves can be 3-piece free-flow, 3-piece locking, 4-piece or ball check.
- Screw & Barrel Material Recommendation: Standard materials can be used to manufacture the screw and barrel; however, special alloys may be required depending on any additives to the PA.
Various additives and/or fillers can have an effect on a resin’s process behavior. For more detailed information, please contact Reiloy Westland Corporation.