Nylon vs Polycarbonate: Strength, Heat Resistance, and Cost Compared

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

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.

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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.