Nylon and polycarbonate are two of the most specified engineering thermoplastics. Both offer excellent mechanical properties, but their unique characteristics—impact resistance for polycarbonate, wear resistance for nylon—make each better suited for specific applications.
Mechanical Properties Compared
| Eigentum | Nylon (PA6) | Polycarbonat (PC) |
|---|---|---|
| Zugfestigkeit (MPa) | 70-85 | 55-75 |
| Biegemodul (GPa) | 2.5-3.0 | 2.2-2.4 |
| Notched Izod Impact (kJ/m²) | 5-15 | 60-80 |
| Dichte (g/cm³) | 1.14 | 1.20 |
Impact Resistance: Polycarbonate’s Signature Strength
Polycarbonate is legendary for its impact resistance—it’s used in bulletproof glass and safety goggles. With notched Izod impact values of 60-80 kJ/m², PC is virtually unbreakable under normal use.
Thermal and Optical Properties
Polycarbonate is naturally transparent with light transmission of 88-90%. Nylon is naturally translucent to opaque.
Chemische Beständigkeit
Nylon holds a distinct advantage here. Polycarbonate has poor chemical resistance—it’s attacked by hydrocarbons, ketones, and many cleaners. Nylon offers excellent resistance to oils, greases, fuels, and many organic solvents.
Moisture and Environmental Resistance
Polycarbonate absorbs negligible moisture (0.15-0.35%). Nylon’s moisture absorption (2.5-3.0%) can cause dimensional changes. However, PC is susceptible to UV degradation.
Application Guide
Choose Nylon When:
- Chemical resistance to oils and fuels is needed
- Wear resistance matters
- Parts must survive dynamic loading
Choose Polycarbonate When:
- Optical clarity is required
- Exceptional impact resistance is critical
- Dimensional stability under varying humidity is needed
Our Capabilities
With over 300 CNC machines, we produce more than 10,000 pieces daily with tolerances as tight as ±0.005mm. We accept MOQ from 1 piece, with delivery times ranging from 24 hours to 15 days. We machine both nylon and polycarbonate. Get a quote within 24 hours.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
Why is polycarbonate used for bulletproof glass instead of nylon?
PC’s exceptional impact resistance (60-80 kJ/m² vs nylon’s 5-15 kJ/m²) and optical clarity make it uniquely suited for ballistic protection.
Can nylon and polycarbonate be used together in the same product?
Yes, they’re often used together where each material’s strengths are leveraged—e.g., nylon gear housing with a PC outer shell.
Is polycarbonate food safe?
Yes, PC is FDA-approved for food contact, though BPA concerns have led to BPA-free alternatives for consumer applications.
Which material is more environmentally friendly?
Neither is biodegradable, but both are recyclable. Bio-based nylons (PA11 from castor oil) offer a renewable option.
