Polyoxymethylene (POM) is also called acetal plastic. It is a semi-crystalline engineering plastic that combines high rigidity with good impact resistance and dimensional stability.
POM is a technical polymer that is used in products where a low friction coefficient and high abrasion resistance are required. It is possible to both weld and polish this plastic, but it is difficult to glue.
POM is available both as a homo- and copolymer. The homopolymer has a higher crystallinity, which results in better mechanical properties such as rigidity and hardness, while the copolymer has slightly better chemical resistance and is easier to process. The highly regular molecular structure of POM results in a crystallinity degree of as high as 80%.
POM is a versatile polymer that has applications in many different industries. The material is normally used in mechanical engineering contexts and the transport and automotive industries, as well as in the manufacture of electronics, medical, and foodstuffs products. POM is used in a wide variety of products, including sliding rails, chain conveyors, catches, and gearwheels.
Primary properties:
● Melting point of 165°C
● Excellent abrasion resistance
● High impact resistance down to -40°C
● High rigidity and hardness
● Low water absorption
● Good chemical resistance
● Easy to process
● Good fatigue behavior
● Low friction coefficient
● Glass-transition temperature of -60°C
● Flame-retardant variants not available
● High mold shrinkage
