Plastics: Nylon (Polyamide) and Polyethylene

Fasteners and plastic components made from Nylon (Polyamide PA6 / PA66) and Polyethylene (PE) provide effective solutions for environments requiring excellent corrosion resistance, low weight, and electrical insulation.

Each material offers specific characteristics that meet a wide range of industrial, technical, and food-grade requirements.

Nylon / Polyamide (PA6 / PA66)

General Characteristics

Nylon is an engineering plastic recognized for its excellent mechanical performance and high wear resistance.

Advantages

• Very good mechanical strength

• Excellent wear resistance

• Good impact resistance

• Very good sliding properties / low friction

• High rigidity

• Good resistance to oils and greases

• Suitable for food contact depending on grade

• Very good dimensional stability when moisture absorption is not a factor

Limitations

• Absorbs moisture (moisture uptake can reach approximately 10%)

• Low UV resistance without specific stabilization

• Moderate heat sensitivity

• Possible dimensional changes in humid environments

Technical Properties of Nylon

Polyethylene (PE)

General Characteristics

Polyethylene is a lightweight plastic offering excellent resistance to moisture and many chemical agents.

Advantages

• Very low moisture absorption

• Excellent water resistance

• Very good resistance to oils and greases

• Very good impact resistance

• Excellent dimensional stability

• Lightweight

• Widely used for food-contact applications

• Good chemical resistance

Limitations

• Lower mechanical strength than nylon

• Softer material

• More sensitive to temperature variations

• Lower operating temperature range

Technical Properties of Polyethylene

Typical Applications

Nylon Applications

• Technical plastic fasteners

• Spacers and washers

• Wear-resistant mechanical parts

• Guides and friction components

• Industrial applications requiring rigidity and mechanical strength

Polyethylene Applications

• Components exposed to moisture

• Food-processing applications

• Caps and protective covers

• Lightweight and flexible parts

• Chemical and humid environments

Material Selection Guide

Choose Nylon (PA6 / PA66) for applications requiring high mechanical strength, excellent wear resistance, and good rigidity.

Choose Polyethylene (PE) for humid or food-grade environments, or where excellent chemical resistance and low weight are required.