Polymers are made up of very large molecules made up of many repeating units called monomers, which ultimately form this long polymer chain
Plasticizers are chemical additives added to polymers to increase their flexibility, ductility, and processability.
PolyOxyMethylene (POM)
Polyoxymethylene (POM), also known as acetal, polyacetal, or polyformaldehyde, is a high-performance engineering thermoplastic. It’s renowned for its exceptional stiffness, hardness, and low friction coefficient.
Key Characteristics
High Stiffness and Strength: POM exhibits excellent mechanical properties, including high tensile strength, stiffness, and impact resistance.
Low Friction: POM has a very low coefficient of friction, making it an excellent choice for moving parts.
Dimensional Stability: POM maintains its shape and size over a wide range of temperatures and under various environmental conditions.
Good Chemical Resistance: POM is resistant to many chemicals and solvents, although it can be susceptible to strong acids and bases.
Fatigue Resistance: POM exhibits good resistance to fatigue, making it suitable for applications involving repeated stress.
Applications PolyoxymethyleneÂ
Automotive: Gears, bearings, fuel system components, and other mechanical parts.
Mechanical Engineering: Gears, pulleys, cams, and other moving parts in machinery.
Consumer Goods: Handles, knobs, zippers, and other durable consumer products.
Electrical/Electronics: Connectors, insulators, and other electrical components.
Medical Devices: Surgical instruments and other medical components.
Advantages of Using POM
High Strength and Stiffness: Excellent mechanical properties for demanding applications.
Low Friction and Wear Resistance: Ideal for moving parts and applications requiring low friction.
Dimensional Stability: Maintains precise dimensions over time.
Good Chemical Resistance: Suitable for use in various chemical environments.
Disadvantages of POM
Sensitivity to Heat: POM can soften and deform at elevated temperatures.
Creep: May exhibit creep under sustained loads at higher temperatures.
Susceptibility to Certain Chemicals: Can be degraded by strong acids and bases.
In summary, Polyoxymethylene (POM) is a high-performance engineering thermoplastic with excellent mechanical properties, low friction, and good dimensional stability. These properties make it a valuable material for a wide range of applications in various industries.
Applications
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