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
| Propriété | Nylon (PA6) | Polycarbonate (PC) |
|---|---|---|
| Résistance à la traction (MPa) | 70-85 | 55-75 |
| Module de flexion (GPa) | 2.5-3.0 | 2.2-2.4 |
| Notched Izod Impact (kJ/m²) | 5-15 | 60-80 |
| Densité (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.
Résistance chimique
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.
FAQ
How do you know whether Nylon vs Polycarbonate: Strength, Heat Resistance, and Cost Compared fits a part?
Nylon vs Polycarbonate: Strength, Heat Resistance, and Cost Compared fits a part when its load capacity, temperature range, moisture exposure, wear behavior, and processing method match the real service conditions.
What properties should be checked for Nylon vs Polycarbonate: Strength, Heat Resistance, and Cost Compared?
Vérifier la résistance, la rigidité, la résistance aux chocs, la résistance à la chaleur, l'absorption d'humidité, la stabilité dimensionnelle, le frottement, l'usure et la compatibilité chimique.
What is the biggest selection risk for Nylon vs Polycarbonate: Strength, Heat Resistance, and Cost Compared?
Le plus grand risque est de choisir à partir d'une fiche technique sans tenir compte de l'environnement réel, de la méthode de traitement, de la géométrie de la pièce et de l'utilisation à long terme.
When should Nylon vs Polycarbonate: Strength, Heat Resistance, and Cost Compared be tested before production?
Les essais sont recommandés lorsque la pièce est soumise à une charge, à la chaleur, à des produits chimiques, à l'humidité, à des tolérances serrées, à des exigences réglementaires ou à un nouvel environnement de travail.
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