Nylon CNC Machining

Why Choose Nylon

Higher Temperature Resistance Than POM or ABS

PA66 operates continuously to 120°C — the upper limit for POM is ~90°C, and ABS softens at ~80°C. For mechanical parts near heat sources, under-hood automotive components, and industrial machinery running hot, nylon's thermal performance is the deciding factor.
Good Wear Resistance and Self-Lubrication

Nylon's surface is naturally low-friction — gears, bushings, cams, and slides in nylon run smoothly with less wear than many other plastics. Nylon gears are quieter than metal and operate well without constant lubrication.
Broad Chemical Resistance

Nylon resists fuels, oils, hydraulic fluids, most bases, and organic solvents well — the basis for its wide use in fuel system components, fluid handling parts, and industrial machinery exposed to lubricants and chemicals. It is attacked by strong acids and concentrated oxidizing agents.
Cost-Effective Structural Performance

Nylon's combination of properties at moderate material cost makes it the most economical engineering plastic for structural mechanical applications requiring more than ABS can provide.

Common Nylon / PA Grades

PA6 (Nylon 6)

Lower melting point and better impact resistance than PA66 — easier to process and machine. Absorbs more moisture than PA66. Standard for general mechanical parts, gears, and bearings where PA66's extra strength is not required.

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PA66 (Nylon 6/6)

Higher strength, stiffness, and heat resistance than PA6 — continuous use to 120°C, melting point 260°C. Standard for demanding mechanical applications, under-hood automotive parts, and structural components where PA6 is marginal.

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Our Machining Capability

Nylon is a standard machining material in our facility — PA6, PA66, PA66+GF, and PA12 are regularly machined on CNC lathes and milling centers. Key consideration: nylon absorbs moisture from the atmosphere, which causes dimensional change of up to 0.5–1% in highly humid conditions. For tight-tolerance nylon parts, we machine dry-conditioned material and advise customers on the expected dimensional change in service humidity. Tolerances held to ±0.05 mm standard on dry-conditioned material. Glass-filled grades machine less cleanly — dedicated tooling and lower speeds are used.
Limitations & Cost Considerations

Nylon's main limitation is moisture absorption — PA6 and PA66 absorb 2–8% moisture by weight, causing significant swelling and dimensional change. Parts machined to ±0.05 mm in the dry state may change by 0.3–0.8 mm after reaching moisture equilibrium in a humid environment. For precision parts used in wet or humid conditions, POM or PA12 is more dimensionally stable. Nylon also creeps under sustained load — long-term stress-bearing applications require careful design to account for creep deformation.

FAQ

What is the difference between PA6 and PA66?

PA66 has higher strength, stiffness, and heat resistance (120°C continuous vs. ~100°C for PA6), and a higher melting point (260°C vs. 220°C). PA6 has better impact resistance, is easier to machine, and is lower cost. PA66 is the correct choice for demanding structural applications and elevated-temperature environments. PA6 is sufficient for many general mechanical parts and is the more economical option.
How does moisture affect nylon dimensions?

Nylon absorbs moisture from the atmosphere and swells as it does — PA6 can absorb up to 8–9% moisture by weight at saturation, causing approximately 2–3% dimensional expansion. For precision parts, this matters: a 50 mm bore machined dry may be 0.5–1 mm larger after equilibrating in a humid environment. If dimensional stability in service is critical, specify PA12 (lowest moisture absorption of common nylons), glass-filled PA66 (glass fiber reduces moisture absorption and swelling), or switch to POM which absorbs only 0.2%.
Can nylon be used for underwater or submerged applications?

Yes, but expect significant dimensional change after water absorption reaches equilibrium. Nylon immersed in water will absorb substantially more moisture than in humid air — PA6 can absorb 9%+ by weight when submerged. For underwater precision parts, POM is the standard choice. If nylon's chemical or wear properties are specifically required, PA12 has the best water resistance of common nylon grades.
What tolerances can you hold on nylon parts?

±0.05 mm on dry-conditioned machined nylon. For glass-filled grades, ±0.08 mm is more realistic due to the abrasive nature of the glass fibers affecting surface finish and tool wear. We advise on the expected dimensional variation in service based on your humidity environment — critical for tight-fit assemblies with nylon components.