PA6 - Akulon 6

Semi-crystalline polymer of polyamide obtained by the polymerisation of the caprolactam. Its large popularity is due to both its good overall features as well as its cost-performance relationship. The use of a high viscosity polymer for the extrusion of Akulon 6 stock shapes results in a product with excellent mechanical properties and a very high standard of quality.

Features

  • abrasion resistance: even in dusty and demanding environments, it's one of the best engineering plastics
  • toughness: high tensile stress and compressive strength. The shock resistance is good particularly for anealed material
  • fatigue-proof: it maintains its features even under continuous stress
  • self-lubricating: the friction coefficient is low and generally for
  • sliding applications it does not require lubricators
  • ageing resistance and weatherproof
  • natural colour

WEAK POINT

It is hygroscopic; it absorbs moisture which means that in time both its mechanical features and dimensions will change. When dry, it is hard and fragile and when moist it becomes more shock resistant and yielding. Machining is easy but automatic lathes should be avoided as the swarf is extremely elastic.

APPLICATION

  • mechanical: thanks to its features and its low price it is a popular material for "general purposes". Widely used in the mechanical industry to produce gears, cams, pulleys, anti-wear guides and other mechanical parts. It is used also for guides, bearings and wheels in shipbuilding. For outdoor applications, Akulon GX is preferable due to its higher UV stability
  • food contact: generally it is not used in contact with food
  • electrical: usage in the electrical field is to be avoided as the electrical features change with the moisture content
  • chemical: it is resistant to inorganic compounds and solvents

ABRASION RESISTANCE

Diagramma perdita di peso

The diagram shows the loss of weight under abrasion: the materials showing lower values are the most resistant ones.