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Explore Nylon, a strong and versatile thermoplastic known for its excellent mechanical properties, flexibility, and abrasion resistance—ideal for durable functional parts in FDM 3D printing.
Nylon, also known as Polyamide, is a family of synthetic polymers renowned for their exceptional strength, durability, and flexibility. In the context of FDM 3D printing, Nylon offers a unique combination of high mechanical strength, impact resistance, and abrasion resistance. It is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture, which can affect printing and final part properties if not properly managed. Nylon's semi-flexible nature allows for the production of parts that can withstand significant stress and strain without fracturing. Its chemical resistance to oils, greases, and solvents makes it suitable for industrial applications. Nylon is widely used in engineering for producing functional prototypes, gears, bearings, bushings, and mechanical components that require toughness and wear resistance. Despite being more challenging to print than materials like PLA or ABS, advances in filament formulations have made Nylon more accessible for 3D printing applications.
Key Nylon properties rated to guide you in selecting the best fit for your 3D printing needs.
Nylon is ideal for producing durable, high-strength functional parts that require flexibility and wear resistance. Its mechanical properties make it suitable for industrial components, engineering prototypes, and mechanical assemblies subjected to stress and friction.
Exhibits high tensile strength and durability with excellent wear resistance, suitable for parts under mechanical stress.
Property | Value, metric |
---|---|
Tensile Strength | Approximately 65 MPa |
Tensile Modulus | Approximately 1,800 MPa |
Elongation at Break (%) | 60% |
Flexural Strength | Approximately 90 MPa |
Flexural Modulus | Approximately 1,500 MPa |
Notched Izod Impact Strength | Approximately 100-150 J/m |
Shore Hardness | Shore D 75 |
Printing with Nylon requires careful environmental control due to its hygroscopic nature and warping tendencies. It is recommended to dry the filament before printing, use a heated bed, and maintain consistent ambient temperatures. Adhesion aids and enclosures can improve print quality.
Type | Value |
---|---|
Lead Time | 2-6 business days |
Wall Thickness | Minimum 1.0 mm |
Tolerance | ±0.20%, minimum ±0.2 mm |
Max Part Size | Up to 450 x 450 x 450 mm |
Layer Height | 0.1 mm to 0.3 mm |
Good heat resistance suitable for applications involving elevated temperatures.
Property | Value, metric |
---|---|
Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT) | Approximately 90°C at 0.455 MPa |
Thermal Expansion Coefficient | Approximately 80 x 10^-6 /°C |
Thermal Expansion (Scale 0-100) | 75 |
Max Service Temperature | Up to 85°C before significant deformation may occur |
Acts as an electrical insulator with good dielectric properties.
Property | Value, metric |
---|---|
ESD Safety | Standard Nylon is not ESD safe; ESD-safe grades are available. |
Conductivity | Non-conductive; insulating material |