General Information:

• Product Name: Polyoxymethylene (POM) or Acetal or Delrin (a trademarked name by DuPont)
• Classification: Semi-crystalline thermoplastic

Typical Properties:

• Density: 1.41 – 1.43 g/cm³
• Tensile Strength: 60 – 70 MPa
• Elongation at Break: 20 – 30%
• Tensile Modulus: 2,700 – 3,000 MPa
• Melting Point: 165 – 175°C
• Notched Izod Impact Strength: 6 – 8 kJ/m²
• Hardness: Rockwell M80 – 90
• Coefficient of Linear Thermal Expansion: 110 – 130 x 10^(-6) K^(-1)
• Dielectric Constant: 3.8 – 4.2 (at 1 MHz)

Features and Benefits:

• High Strength and Stiffness: Excellent mechanical strength and rigidity.
• Low Friction: Self-lubricating properties, making it ideal for parts where low friction is required.
• Chemical Resistance: Resistant to many solvents, chemicals, and hydrocarbons.
• Dimensional Stability: Low moisture absorption resulting in excellent dimensional stability.
• Fatigue Resistance: Excellent resistance to cyclic fatigue.
• Electrical Insulation: High dielectric strength making it suitable for electrical components.

Applications:

• Industrial: Gears, bearings, bushings, fasteners, and conveyor components.
• Automotive: Fuel systems components, door handles, and control systems.
• Consumer Goods: Zippers, appliance parts, toys, and window mechanisms.
• Medical: Precision components for medical devices.
• Electrical: Insulating components, connectors, and housing.

Processing Methods:

• Injection Molding (components, intricate parts)
• Extrusion (rods, tubes, and profiles)
• Machining (precision parts)

Environmental Impact and Recycling:

• POM can be recycled, but care must be taken to prevent contamination with other polymers.
• Incineration of POM produces formaldehyde, CO₂, and water, so effective emission control is essential.
• There are initiatives to improve POM recycling through advanced sorting and processing techniques.

Storage and Handling:

• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Handle with care to avoid contamination, especially if planned for medical or high-precision applications.

Safety Information:

• POM is safe for various consumer and industrial applications.
• When processing POM, ensure proper ventilation due to the potential release of formaldehyde.
• POM is flammable and should be kept away from open flames; when burned, it can release toxic fumes.