Acetal (POM) – This is the most widely used. It is strong, tough, has a good surface hardness and fatigue endurance. Good resistance to moisture and chemicals and its natural lubricity reduces wear.
Nylon (PA) – This has excellent strength and toughness, as well as temperature resistance. Reinforced nylon can be used where better strength and stiffness are required. There are also high temperature grades, such as Stanyl PA46, that offer higher endurance and reduced dimensional change. This material can also be used in high torque transmitting situations.
Polyphenylene Sulphide (PPS) – Exceptional temperature and chemical resistance with good fatigue endurance. Effective in finely detailed parts under high loads. PTFE lubricated PPS grades have been used in automotive steering columns.
Polyester (PBT) – For strong, stiff gears in high temperatures (up to 150˚C). This material is not affected by moisture and has a high degree of dimensional stability.
Polycarbonate (PC) – Lubricated polycarbonates can be used for highest accuracy.
Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) – For low noise gear trains.
Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) – For extremely small or thin gears under light loads, such as wristwatch gears. Ultra high temperature resistance with superior chemical resistance and dimensional stability.