Nylon 6 (polyamide 6) is a tough engineering plastic with good wear resistance and low friction. It comes as injection moulding granules and as extruded or cast rods and plates (cast nylon, PA6G) for machining. It is used for gears, bushes, rollers, wear pads and machine parts. It absorbs moisture, which changes its size slightly.
Quick facts
- Density
- About 1.13–1.15 g/cm³
- Melting point
- About 220 °C
- Service temperature
- About −40 to +100 °C continuous
- Moisture absorption
- About 2.5–3% in normal air; more in water
- Strengths
- Tough, wear resistant, quiet running
- Forms
- Granules, extruded and cast rods and plates
Typical properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile strength | About 60–80 MPa (dry) |
| Hardness | About Shore D 75–85 |
| Friction against steel | Low |
| Chemical resistance | Good against oils and fuels; poor against acids |
Values are typical for unfilled grades. Grades from different makers differ; ask for the supplier's data sheet when it matters.
Machining nylon
- Use sharp tools with positive rake; avoid heat build-up
- Allow for moisture: parts can grow slightly after machining
- Keep tolerances realistic (about ±0.05–0.1 mm (±0.0020–0.0039 inch) on most sizes)
- Cast nylon machines better and has lower internal stress than extruded
Typical uses
- Gears and sprockets
- Bushes and bearings
- Rollers and wheels
- Wear pads and guide strips
- Machine parts in food and packaging lines
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Questions
- Nylon or Delrin (POM)?
- POM is stiffer, absorbs almost no water and keeps its size better, so it suits precise parts. Nylon is tougher and takes shock and wear better, and is often cheaper in large sizes.
- Why do nylon parts change size?
- Nylon absorbs moisture from the air, about 2.5–3%, and swells slightly. For close fits, allow for this or choose POM.
- What is cast nylon?
- Nylon 6 made by casting in moulds rather than extruding. Cast nylon (PA6G) comes in large rods and plates with low internal stress, good for machined gears and rollers.
The figures on this page are typical values for guidance, written by Diemeco from standard engineering practice. They are not a specification: confirm grades and properties with the relevant standard or the supplier's mill test certificate, and tolerances with your workshop. Last checked 16 October 2026.