Materials
Choosing the right engineering plastic for your application is the most important step. Each material offers a different balance of temperature resistance, friction, wear and chemical resistance. Use the comparison below as a starting point — our engineers are happy to help you select the optimal grade.
The Seven Materials
From the most chemically inert plastic to tough, wear-resistant workhorses — we stock and machine all seven.
PTFE
Polytetrafluoroethylene
POM
Acetal
Nylon
PA6 / PA66
HDPE
High-Density PE
UHMWPE
Ultra-High MW PE
PP
Polypropylene
Bakelite
Phenolic Resin
| Material | Max Continuous Temp | Friction | Wear | Chemical | Strength Character |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PTFE | +260 °C | Very low | Fair | Excellent | Soft, flexible |
| POM | +100 °C | Low | Good | Good | Stiff, strong |
| Nylon | +110 °C | Low | Excellent | Good | Tough |
| HDPE | +70 °C | Low | Good | Excellent | Impact resistant |
| UHMWPE | +80 °C | Very low | Outstanding | Excellent | Wear resistant |
| PP | +90 °C | Low | Fair | Excellent | Light, fatigue resistant |
| Bakelite | +150 °C | Medium | Good | Good | Rigid, creep resistant |
How to Choose
- Chemical exposure? → PTFE, PP or HDPE offer the broadest chemical resistance.
- High temperature? → PTFE (−200 to +260 °C) or Bakelite for continuous heat.
- Wear and sliding? → UHMWPE and Nylon are the workhorses of conveyor and guide applications.
- Tight tolerances & stiffness? → POM machines beautifully to precise dimensions.
- Electrical insulation? → Bakelite and PTFE are proven insulators.
Grades & Modifications
Most materials are available in multiple grades. Tell us your operating conditions and we will recommend the right one.
Unfilled / Natural
Standard virgin grades for general purpose parts.
Glass-Filled
Higher stiffness and dimensional stability for structural parts.
Carbon-Filled
Improved strength, wear and thermal conductivity.
MoS₂-Filled
Reduced friction and improved wear for bearings and slides.
Food-Contact (FDA)
Compliant grades for food and beverage handling.
Anti-Static
Dissipative grades for electronics and hazardous areas.
Not sure which material fits?
Send us your application details — we will help you select within 24 hours.