Material Selection for Plastic Gears
The choice of raw materials for plastic gears is critical, directly impacting their service life, noise levels, transmission efficiency, and cost.
I. Key Factors in Material Selection
1. Strength and Rigidity
Must withstand specific torque and load.
2. Wear Resistance and Friction Performance
Resists wear during prolonged meshing with paired gears.
3. Dimensional Stability
Minimal size changes under heat or moisture absorption.
4. Processability
Easy to mold (via injection molding) or machine.
5. Environmental Resistance
It withstands high temperatures, chemical corrosion, humidity, and heat.
6. Noise and Lubrication Requirements
Good self-lubrication and quiet operation.
II. Common Materials and Properties
PA (Nylon)
High strength, wear resistance, self-lubrication, low cost, but high water absorption.
POM (Acetal)
Excellent dimensional stability, low friction coefficient, self-lubrication, and high strength.
PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate)
Superior dimensional stability, heat resistance, and electrical performance.
PC (Polycarbonate)
High toughness, transparency, impact resistance, moderate heat resistance.
PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone)
Ultra-high strength withstands temperatures above 250°C, with exceptional chemical stability.
