What factors should be considered when selecting polyoxymethylene granules for a specific application?- Zhejiang Houmi Import and Export Corporation

What factors should be considered when selecting polyoxymethylene granules for a specific application?

When selecting polyoxymethylene granules for a specific application, several factors should be considered. POM, also known as acetal or polyacetal, is a versatile engineering thermoplastic that offers excellent mechanical properties and dimensional stability. Here are some key factors to consider:

Mechanical properties: Evaluate the mechanical requirements of your application, such as strength, stiffness, impact resistance, and wear resistance. Different grades of POM have varying mechanical properties, so choose a grade that matches your specific needs.

Chemical resistance: Consider the chemical environment that the POM will be exposed to. POM has good resistance to many chemicals, but its performance can vary depending on the specific grade. Assess the compatibility with fuels, solvents, oils, acids, and other chemicals that may come into contact with the POM component.

Temperature resistance: Determine the operating temperature range of your application. POM exhibits good dimensional stability and mechanical properties over a wide temperature range. However, at elevated temperatures, it may experience thermal degradation, so select a grade with appropriate heat resistance for your application.

Moisture absorption: POM has low moisture absorption compared to other engineering plastics, but it can still absorb some moisture over time. Consider the moisture sensitivity of your application and choose a grade with the desired moisture resistance. Low moisture absorption is crucial for maintaining dimensional stability and mechanical properties.

Dimensional stability: Evaluate the required dimensional stability and precision for your application. POM typically exhibits low shrinkage and good dimensional stability, making it suitable for applications where tight tolerances and precise fitting are important.

Friction and wear properties: If your application involves sliding or rubbing components, consider the friction and wear characteristics of the POM grade. POM has good wear resistance and low friction, making it suitable for applications such as gears, bearings, and sliding mechanisms.

Food contact and FDA compliance: If your application involves contact with food or other sensitive environments, ensure that the selected POM grade complies with relevant regulations and certifications such as FDA (Food and Drug Administration) compliance.

Color and aesthetics: POM is available in various colors, so consider the visual requirements of your application. Determine if the POM needs to be transparent, opaque, or a specific color to meet your design or branding needs.

Processability: Assess the processability of the POM grade for your chosen manufacturing method, such as injection molding or extrusion. Consider factors like melt flow rate (MFR) and moldability to ensure the selected POM grade can be easily processed into the desired shape.