POM (Polyoxymethylene)

Polyoxymethylene (POM), also called acetal plastic, is a high-performance engineering thermoplastic used in applications where high stiffness, low friction and good dimensional stability are required.

What is POM (Polyoxymethylene)?

The material has excellent mechanical properties and is often used as an alternative to metal in precision components.

Important properties of POM (Polyoxymethylene)

  • High stiffness and strength – Retains its shape even under high loads.
  • Low friction and high wear resistance – Perfect for gears, bearings and sliding surfaces where low friction is required.
  • Excellent dimensional stability – Shrinks and expands minimally with temperature changes.
  • High chemical resistance – Resistant to many solvents, oils and fuels.
  • Good electrical insulation properties – Suitable for electronic and electrical components.
  • Heat resistant – Can withstand temperatures up to approximately 90–110°C depending on variant.
  • Low water absorption – Retains its mechanical properties even in humid environments.
  • Easy to process – Can be processed by injection molding, milling and turning.
  • High fatigue resistance – Retains its properties even under repeated loads.

Different types of POM (Polyoxymethylene) and their uses

POM comes in two main types:

  • POM Homopolymer – Has higher stiffness, strength and mechanical performance.
  • POM Copolymer – Has better chemical and heat resistance and lower risk of degradation. Used in components exposed to moisture and chemicals.

How do we use POM in our production?

We use polyoxymethylene (POM) in a range of high-performance applications, where its mechanical and chemical properties make it an optimal material.

Some of the most common uses are:

  • Precision components – POM is used in gears, plain bearings, shafts and other moving parts where low friction is crucial.
  • Automotive industry – The material is used in fuel systems, door mechanisms and other components that require durability and dimensional stability.
  • Industrial machine parts – POM is used in valves, impellers and conveyor belts where low friction and high wear resistance are important.
  • Electronics and electrical components – Thanks to its insulating properties, POM is used in connectors, couplings and insulating materials.
  • Lock and hinge components – Low friction and high wear resistance make it ideal for locks and hinges in both industrial and consumer products.

Why do we choose POM (Polyoxymethylene)?

POM is an ideal material when a plastic is needed as a replacement for metal in engineering applications. It offers a balanced combination of strength, low friction and chemical resistance, making it a key component in many of our products.

To optimize POM for different applications, it can be modified with:

  • Fiberglass reinforcement – For increased stiffness and strength.
  • Lubricant additives – For even lower friction and improved sliding properties.
  • UV stabilizers – For increased durability when used outdoors.

In conclusion, POM is one of the primary engineering plastics we use, especially in applications where high precision and low friction are crucial.

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