PA – Polyamide

PA: Durethan, Teramid, Latamid, Kelon, Vampamide, Denyl, Ultramid, Daunyl, Vydyne, Leona, Ixef, Akulon

Automotive industry

Polyamides are often used as a replacement for metal parts under the hood, as they reduce vehicle weight and withstand high loads and temperatures.

• Engine components: Intake manifolds, valve covers, air filter housings and coolant tanks.
• Fuel system (mainly PA11 and PA12): Fuel supply pipes, as these types are extremely resistant to chemicals and have low permeability.
• Structural and moving parts: Accelerator and clutch pedals, engine mounts, gears and mirror housings.

Electrical and Electronics Engineering (E&E)

Due to their excellent electrical insulation properties and the possibility of achieving a high level of non-flammability (with appropriate additives), polyamides are a standard in electronics.

• Switching technology: Fuse housings, circuit breakers, relays and switches.
• Connecting elements: Connectors, terminals, cable glands and cable ties.
• Power tools: Housings for drills, angle grinders and other hand tools.

Mechanical engineering and industrial parts

Due to its low coefficient of friction and high wear resistance, PA often operates without lubrication.

• Sliding and rotating elements: Plain bearings, bushings, gears, sprockets and guides.
• Transport systems: Forklift wheels, transport rollers and conveyor belt elements.

Sports, leisure and consumer goods

• Winter equipment: Ski and snowboard bindings, ski boot cases and helmets.
• Household: Kitchen utensils (scoops, turners - due to heat resistance up to approx. 150 °C), vacuum cleaner parts and furniture fittings.
• Textile industry: Sportswear, backpacks, tents, fishing lines and toothbrush bristles.

Quick comparison of PA types and their specific uses:

Important note when planning:

Polyamides (mainly PA6 and PA66) are hygroscopic – they absorb moisture strongly from the environment (up to 3–10 %). Moisture absorption increases toughness, but reduces tensile strength and changes product dimensions. If the product will be in a humid environment where tolerances are critical, PA6/66 is used instead of PA6/66. PA12 or PPA (polyphthalamide).