The poly oxy methylene (POM) is a name of most important plastics used in the engineering world. There are also known as polyacetal, acetal, and polyformaldehyde.
When it comes to looking for the strongest and toughest thermoplastics, then POM sheets is the name that counts as an ultimate, since this engineering thermoplastic is used in precision parts by different chemical firms.
The POM sheets in engineering world are commonly shaped with multiple synthetic polymers, and it is produced by different chemical firms with slightly different formulas such as; Celcon, Ramtal, Delrin, Duracon, Kepital, and Hostaform.
Types of Poly Oxy Methylene
The POM sheets (Polyoxymethylene) is divided into two groups:
Homopolymer POM – POM homopolymer is created in result of direct polymerization. It comprises of higher crystallinity and often results in higher stiffness.
Copolymer POM – When formaldehyde is converted to trioxane, then POM copolymer is created. This process is completely polymerized together with a co-monomer, to a POM copolymer (e.g. Hostaform).
It has high chemical resistance, it regularly brings about less warm debasement while generation, and in the field.
What are the best features of POM sheets?
The features of any industrial or engineering related product matters a lot in terms of its function, and standard of performance. The POM sheet is specified for its hardness, high stiffness, high strength, low friction, rigidity to −40 °C, and excellent dimensional stability.
Since it has a high crystalline composition, so it looks opaque white, but it’s also available in other variety of colors. The maximum density of POM is 1.410–1.420 g/cm3.
The reason why POM sheet suppliers enjoy high revenues is, this product is beneficial for many engineering applications, and highly suited to CNC machining, these are available including an enhanced bearing grade material.
Properties & Applications of POM
Typical applications for POM sheets include high-performance engineering components such as;
- Small gear wheels
- Gears
- Springs
- Chains
- Screws
- Handles
- Zippers
- Clips
- Fuel pumps
- Inhalers
- Furniture sliders
- Guns, knife handles, and lock systems. The material is widely used in the automotive and consumer electronics industry.
Properties of POM
Now, let’s jump to some best properties of POM sheets, which are;
- High stiffness
- Good resilience
- Low water absorption
- Low wear
POM is mainly used for technical parts where the mentioned mechanical properties are giving it an advantage over other plastics.
Drawbacks of POM sheets
Alike every industrial product, the poly oxy methylene sheet has some negative aspects as well, they are;
- Poor resistance to acids/alkalis
- Product shrinks at high rate
- Flammable fluid with a perilous fire danger (not accessible in a fire resistant review)
- Limited operating temperature range
