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Acetal Homopolymer & Acetal Copolymers

Two primary versions of acetal are available, those are homopolymer and copolymer. Chemically they are roughly 90% identical, however each acetal variety offers its own unique benefits. In addition filled versions of acetal are available to help meet specific application requirements. Our plastics experts are here to answer your questions, contact us today.

Benefits of Acetal Homopolymer:

• Rigid
• Thermoforms easily
• Can be used in a wide variety of applications
• Impact resistant
• Good chemical resistant
• Low moisture absorption
• Stiffer than acetal copolymers, with higher flexural modulus at ambient temperature and in elevated temperature applications
• Higher impact strengths, at both ambient temperature and low temperatures
• Roughly 10-15% higher tensile strength than copolymers
• Higher continuous use temperature than copolymers (95°C vs. 90°C)

• More flexible and pliable than homopolymer
• Resistant to cracking at lower temperatures
• No moisture absorption
• FDA compliant
• Can be welded
• Can be bonded
• Greater dimensional stability than acetal homopolymer, due to lower crystallinity
• Better chemical resistance with high pH solutions (bases)
• Lower centerline porosity (see below) in extrusions

Other trade names for Acetal include: Celcon®, Delrin®, Ensital®, Pomalux®, Polyacetal®, POM (PolyOxyMethylene) Sustarin®, Tecaform®, Ultraform®, Unital®, and ZL 900.

• Excellent for general purpose parts in wet environments
• Machines to tight tolerances
• Homopolymer and Copolymer versions available to fit different applications
• Filled versions available including PTFE and lubricants*
• Available in FDA and USDA compliant grades

In addition to its general properties, acetal is resistant to a wide range of neutral chemicals, solvents, and hydrocarbons. Common applications for acetal plastic include:

• Bearings, bushings, rollers, and gears
• Wear pads and wear strips
• High speed conveyor lines
• Valves and manifolds
• Scraper blades in food processing applications
• Orthotic and Prosthetic applications, especially upper and lower limb prosthetics
• Food Processing applications requiring FDA compliance for food contact
• High moisture environments

Testing by manufacturers has shown that acetal bearings can outperform nylon bearings 4 to 1 in high moisture or submerged applications. Individual testing for your applications should always be done first. Contact us today for assistance with material selection and testing.

Online Plastics is your direct distributor for all your acetal plastic material needs. We continue to stock acetal plastic from all the top US manufacturers. Contact us for more information, or request a quote today.