




Chemical Structure Differences
The fundamental difference between PA6 (Nylon 6) et PA66 (Nylon 66) lies in their molecular structure:
- Nylon 6: Made from caprolactam, has 6 carbon atoms in each repeating unit. Less crystalline structure.
- Nylon 66: Made from hexamethylenediamine and adipic acid, has two 6-carbon chains. More crystalline structure.
Mechanical Properties Comparison
| Propriété | PA6 | PA66 |
|---|---|---|
| Résistance à la traction | 70-85 MPa | 80-100 MPa |
| Module de flexion | 2.5-3.0 GPa | 2.8-3.5 GPa |
| Allongement à la rupture | 30-100% | 15-60% |
| Notched Izod Impact | 50-100 J/m | 40-80 J/m |
| Point de fusion | 220°C | 260°C |
| HDT at 1.8 MPa | 70°C | 90°C |
Absorption de l'humidité
Moisture absorption is critical for nylon applications:
| Condition | PA6 | PA66 |
|---|---|---|
| At 50% RH | 2.5-3.0% | 2.0-2.5% |
| Saturation | 8-10% | 6-8% |
Processing Characteristics
Nylon 6 Processing
- Melting Point: 220°C
- Processing Range: 240-280°C
- Température du moule : 40-80°C
Nylon 66 Processing
- Melting Point: 260°C
- Processing Range: 280-320°C
- Température du moule : 60-90°C
Applications by Material
Nylon 6 Applications
- Gears and sprockets
- Industrial monofilament
- Film and packaging
- Consumer products
Nylon 66 Applications
- Automotive under-hood components
- Electrical connectors
- High-temperature bearings
- Precision mechanical components
Reinforced Grades
Both materials are commonly reinforced with glass fiber:
| Grade | PA6 + GF30 | PA66 + GF30 |
|---|---|---|
| Résistance à la traction | 140-160 MPa | 170-200 MPa |
| HDT (1.8 MPa) | 205°C+ | 250°C+ |
| Absorption de l'humidité | 1.0-1.5% | 0.8-1.2% |
Selection Summary
Choose Nylon 6 when:
- Impact resistance is critical
- Cost sensitivity is high
- Operating temperatures are moderate
Choose Nylon 66 when:
- Higher mechanical strength is required
- Elevated temperatures are expected
- Dimensional stability is critical
FAQ
When is Nylon 6 vs Nylon 66 — Engineering Plastic Selection Guide a good option?
Nylon 6 vs Nylon 66 — Engineering Plastic Selection Guide is a good option when fast iteration, complex geometry, low tooling cost, or low-volume production is more important than molded-part unit cost.
What should be checked before choosing Nylon 6 vs Nylon 66 — Engineering Plastic Selection Guide?
Vérifier la taille de la pièce, les propriétés du matériau, l'état de surface, la tolérance dimensionnelle, l'exposition à la chaleur, la direction de la charge et la nécessité d'un post-traitement.
How does Nylon 6 vs Nylon 66 — Engineering Plastic Selection Guide compare with CNC machining?
L'impression 3D permet de créer rapidement des formes complexes, tandis que l'usinage CNC est souvent plus performant pour les surfaces précises, les tolérances plus étroites et les matériaux de qualité.
What affects the cost of Nylon 6 vs Nylon 66 — Engineering Plastic Selection Guide?
Le coût dépend du matériau, du volume de construction, du temps d'impression, de la hauteur des couches, de l'enlèvement du support, de la finition, de l'inspection et du nombre de pièces dans la construction.
Nylon 6 vs Nylon 66 — Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nylon 66 stronger than Nylon 6?
Yes. Nylon 66 typically offers 15-25% higher tensile strength (80-100 MPa vs 70-85 MPa) due to more crystalline structure.
Which nylon is better for gears?
Both work well. PA6 is preferred for impact-loaded gears due to higher toughness. PA66 is better for high-load, high-temperature applications.
Where can I source quality PA6 and PA66 granules?
Nylonplastic supplies both grades in natural, colored, and reinforced versions. Contact us for samples.


