Find out about our POM

POM is a semi-crystalline engineering thermoplastic renowned for its exceptional tensile strength (typically 60–90 MPa, depending on homopolymer vs. copolymer grades), high stiffness (flexural modulus often 2,800–3,500 MPa), and good toughness. It maintains structural integrity under significant loads and resists deformation, creep, and fatigue even over long periods or repeated stress cycles. This makes it ideal for precision load-bearing components such as gears, cams, clips, springs, and structural housings. Its strength-to-weight ratio approaches that of some metals (often called "steel-like plastic"), while offering much lower density (around 1.41–1.42 g/cm³) and easier processing. Compared to many other plastics like nylon, POM provides superior rigidity and creep resistance, ensuring parts hold shape without sagging or loosening over time.

2. Low Friction & Excellent Wear Resistance

POM features a naturally low coefficient of friction (typically 0.1–0.3 against itself or metals) and inherent self-lubricating properties due to its crystalline structure. This results in outstanding sliding wear performance, often outperforming many other engineering plastics without needing external lubricants. It excels in dynamic applications like gears, bearings, bushings, conveyor components, and sliding mechanisms, where it reduces energy loss, noise, and maintenance. Wear rates are significantly lower than nylon in many friction scenarios, and additives like PTFE or molybdenum disulfide can further enhance performance. Its fatigue resistance supports millions of cycles in moving parts, making it a top choice for automotive, industrial machinery, and consumer products requiring durability under continuous motion.

3. Dimensional Stability & Low Moisture Absorption

POM exhibits outstanding dimensional stability thanks to low moisture absorption (typically 0.2–0.25% in 24 hours, up to ~0.8% at saturation) and a low coefficient of thermal expansion. It holds tight tolerances across wide temperature ranges (generally -40°C to +100–120°C continuous use) and humid environments, with minimal swelling, warping, or shrinkage. This predictability is critical for precision engineering, such as in measuring instruments, pump components, valves, and intricate assemblies, where even small dimensional changes could cause failure. Unlike hygroscopic materials like nylon (which can absorb 1.5–2%+ moisture and swell noticeably), POM maintains accuracy and performance in varying conditions, reducing the need for post-machining adjustments or environmental controls.

4. Strong Chemical Resistance