What is PA46 material

I. Chemical Structure and Basic Properties

• Molecular Structure: Formed by polycondensation of butanediamine and adipic acid, with high molecular chain regularity and a crystallinity of ~70%.

• Physical Properties:

• High melting point (~295°C) and heat deflection temperature, maintaining dimensional stability at high temperatures.

• Relative density: 1.18–1.23 g/cm³.

• Mechanical Properties:

• High tensile and flexural strength, capable of withstanding heavy loads.

• Excellent fatigue resistance, durable under repeated stress.

• Good notch impact strength even at low temperatures, ensuring toughness.

• Chemical Properties:

• Resistant to most chemicals, with superior oil/grease tolerance at high temperatures.

• Moderate hydrolysis resistance in wet environments.

• Processing Performance:

• Excellent melt flow for complex part molding.

• Fast crystallization shortens cycle time and boosts efficiency.

• Recyclable with 25–50% regrind usage and no significant property degradation.

II. Application Fields

• Automotive Industry:

• Engine components (intake manifolds, sensor housings, engine covers) leveraging high temperature and strength resistance.

• Electrical system parts (connectors, relay housings) for insulation and mechanical stability.

• Electronics & Electricals:

• Electronic components (SMD parts, winding components) requiring dimensional precision and electrical performance.

• Appliance housings (circuit breakers, power tool casings) using mechanical strength and flame retardancy (after modification).

• Industrial Manufacturing:

• Mechanical parts (gears, bearings, cams) for wear resistance, strength, and fatigue resistance.

• Industrial connectors in automation equipment for stable, reliable connections.

III. Key Processing Considerations

• Temperature Control:

• Barrel temperature: High enough for uniform melt (avoid >330°C to prevent degradation).

• Mold temperature: >80°C (up to 120°C+ for better dimensional stability and flow).

• Screw Speed: Flexible for standard grades; lower speeds for glass fiber-reinforced grades to preserve fiber length.

• Backpressure: ~7.5 bar recommended (high backpressure extends plastification time, causes drooling, and reduces fiber length).

• Injection Speed & Pressure:

• High speed needed due to fast solidification, ensuring compaction and surface finish (mind mold venting).

• Short holding time required as PA46 solidifies rapidly; proper pressure controls part appearance/dimensions.

IV. Advantages Over Other Engineering Plastics

• Vs. PA66: Higher melting point, faster crystallization, better high-temperature mechanical retention, and shorter cycle times.

• Vs. PBT: Superior mechanical strength, fatigue resistance, and heat resistance (PBT excels in hydrolysis resistance, but PA46 suits high-temperature/high-strength applications).