Injection-moulded or extruded PA6: Which option is best for you?
When choosing a plastic material, it is important to understand the different manufacturing methods. For PA6, also known as polyamide 6, there are essentially two methods: moulding and extrusion. But what distinguishes them, and when does it matter?
At PlastShop.se, we offer both moulded and extruded PA6. We want to help you understand which material is best suited to your needs. Let’s start by looking at how they are manufactured.
The manufacturing process
Casting PA6 involves melting PA6 powder and shaping it into the desired form. This method is suitable for creating complex shapes and thick sections with high crystallinity.
Extrusion of PA6 involves melting PA6 granules and forcing them through a die, resulting in a long profile that can then be cut to the desired length.
Extrusion is a more common method for manufacturing long, narrow shapes such as profiles and tubes. However, for thick sections or complex shapes, moulding is often a better choice.
Properties
There are differences in the properties between moulded and extruded PA6. Moulded PA6 generally has higher crystallinity in thick sections, which provides better mechanical properties. The moulding process allows for more controlled crystallisation, resulting in a more homogeneous structure.
Extruded PA6 often has lower crystallinity, particularly in thick sections. This can affect the material’s mechanical properties, such as strength and tensile strength. However, extruded PA6 has advantages such as a more uniform density and fewer defects.
Shore hardness is also important to consider. Cast PA6 can have a Shore hardness of up to 65° Shore D, while extruded PA6 usually has a slightly lower hardness. The hardness affects how the material performs in different applications.
Dimensions and Tolerances
There are also differences when it comes to dimensions. Moulded PA6 can be manufactured in many different dimensions, ranging from small, complex shapes to large, thick sections. Extruded PA6 is usually available in standard dimensions such as fittings and pipes.
The tolerances for moulded PA6 can vary depending on the process and the material’s properties. Generally speaking, moulded PA6 may have slightly wider tolerances than extruded PA6, which usually has more precise dimensions.
Cost
The price also differs between moulded and extruded PA6. Moulded PA6 is usually more expensive than extruded PA6, particularly for smaller volumes. This is because the moulding process requires more labour and specialised equipment.
But when is it worth investing in moulded PA6? In situations where specific material properties are required, such as high crystallinity and mechanical strength, moulded PA6 may be the best choice. This may be the case in the aerospace industry, for example.
When should you choose moulded PA6?
Choose moulded PA6 when you need high crystallinity, good mechanical strength and high Shore hardness. It is also a good choice when you need to manufacture complex shapes or thick sections.
However, if you do not require these specific properties, you can use extruded PA6 instead. Extruded PA6 is a good alternative when you are looking for a more cost-effective solution, whilst still wanting a high-quality product.
The choice between cast and extruded PA6 comes down to weighing up the pros and cons. We hope this article has given you a better understanding of the differences. Please feel free to contact us if you have any further questions or need help choosing the right material!
Gjuten eller extruderad PA6: Vilket alternativ är bäst för dig?