Nylon PA
Tough and easy to machine, but it moves after you cut it — moisture, not the machining, is what changes the dimension.
Absorbs moisture from the air and keeps growing afterwards. Parts are measured in a conditioned state, and we note it on the drawing review.
Quote a Nylon PA partWhat we hold and what we can hold
Figures below are what our shops achieve on prototype quantities. A production order may justify tighter — or looser — tolerances, and that is a conversation, not a default.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Typical use | Gears, bushings, wear strips, electrical insulating parts |
| Machinability | Fair |
| Achievable tolerance | ±0.10 mm typical, needs conditioning time |
| Typical lead time | 3–6 working days |
| Common grades | PA6 · PA6-GF30 · PA66 · PA12 |
| Recommended finishes | Deburring · Bead blasting |
| Suitable processes | 3-axis milling · CNC turning |
What engineers ask about Nylon PA
These are the questions that come up on almost every Nylon PA drawing. If your question is not here, send it with the drawing and we will answer it in the quote.
Why did my nylon part fail a bore tolerance after delivery?
Almost always moisture. Nylon absorbs humidity and continues to change dimension after machining. We condition the stock before cutting and specify the conditioning state on the inspection report.
Does nylon need an anneal step?
Yes for large or critical parts, to relieve the stress that machining leaves in the material. We flag it when the tolerance is tighter than the material can hold reliably.
Where this material fits
Surface finishes for Nylon PA
When not to use Nylon PA
We would rather tell you on day one than ship you a part that was never the right answer. If one of these applies to your project, say so in the enquiry.
- Tight-tolerance features without conditioning and an anneal step
- Moisture exposure where dimension drift after delivery is unacceptable
- Parts that must be bonded — nylon needs a mechanical or welded joint