POM | High-Performance Polyoxymethylene Engineering Thermoplastic
Overview
POM (Polyoxymethylene), also known as acetal resin or polyacetal, is a high-performance engineering thermoplastic renowned for its exceptional mechanical properties, dimensional stability, and chemical resistance. Available in both homopolymer and copolymer variants, POM offers distinct performance characteristics for different applications. With the chemical formula (CH₂O)ₙ and CAS number 9002-81-7, POM delivers outstanding strength, stiffness, and low friction characteristics, making it the preferred choice for precision engineering components across automotive, medical, industrial, and consumer electronics applications requiring superior durability and performance.
POM belongs to the formaldehyde-based engineering thermoplastic family, characterized by its semi-crystalline structure with repeating oxymethylene units (-CH₂O-). This unique molecular structure provides exceptional mechanical properties and dimensional stability. Available in both homopolymer and copolymer forms, POM offers density ranging from 1.41-1.42 g/cm³ and melting points around 165-175°C.
Leading international manufacturers produce POM under various trade names including Delrin® by DuPont (USA), Hostaform® and Celcon® by Celanese (USA), Duracon® by Polyplastics, Tenac® by Asahi Kasei (Japan), and Ultraform® by BASF. The polymer's high crystallinity (75-85%) contributes to its excellent mechanical strength, while its low moisture absorption ensures consistent dimensional stability in demanding applications.
Key Features & Benefits
- Exceptional Mechanical Strength: Tensile strength up to 83 MPa with excellent impact resistance
- Superior Dimensional Stability: Low thermal expansion and minimal moisture absorption
- Low Friction Coefficient: Self-lubricating properties ideal for moving parts and bearings
- Excellent Chemical Resistance: Resistant to solvents, oils, and most chemicals except strong acids/bases
- High Stiffness: Young's modulus of 2.9-3.2 GPa for structural applications
- Temperature Resistance: Maintains properties from -40°C to 100°C continuous service
- Electrical Insulation: High electrical resistivity (10¹⁵ Ω·cm) for electronic applications
- Fatigue Resistance: Excellent long-term performance under cyclic loading
- Easy Processing: Good flow properties for injection molding and machining
Applications
POM's unique combination of properties makes it indispensable across multiple high-performance industries:
Automotive Industry
- Fuel System Components: Fuel rails, pumps, valves, and filler necks with excellent fuel resistance
- Interior Parts: HVAC components, seat adjusters, door handles, and trim pieces
- Engine Components: Timing chain guides, water pump impellers, and cooling system parts
- Electrical Systems: Connectors, switches, and sensor housings
Medical & Healthcare
- Drug Delivery Systems: Insulin syringes, inhalers, and precision dosing mechanisms
- Surgical Instruments: Handles, housings, and precision components
- Dental Equipment: Orthodontic appliances and dental tool components
- Medical Devices: Pump components and valve assemblies
Industrial Applications
- Mechanical Components: Gears, bearings, bushings, and cam followers
- Fluid Handling: Pump housings, valve bodies, and pipe fittings
- Conveyor Systems: Chain links, sprockets, and guide rails
- Precision Parts: Fasteners, clips, and structural components
Consumer Electronics
- Computer Hardware: Keyboard mechanisms, printer components, and camera parts
- Appliances: Washing machine parts, dishwasher components, and small appliance housings
- Sports Equipment: Ski bindings, bicycle components, and sporting goods
Technical Specifications
POM exhibits outstanding physical and mechanical properties with tensile strength ranging from 69-83 MPa, flexural modulus of 2.41-3.10 GPa, and excellent dimensional stability. The material demonstrates low coefficient of thermal expansion (8.5×10⁻⁵ 1/°C), high electrical resistivity (10¹⁵ Ω·cm), and maintains properties across a wide temperature range from -40°C to 100°C continuous service.
For full technical details and specific grade comparisons, please view our datasheet (TDS).
FAQ
What is POM used for?
POM is primarily used for high-precision engineering components requiring excellent mechanical properties, dimensional stability, and chemical resistance. Key applications include automotive fuel systems, medical devices, industrial gears and bearings, consumer electronics, and precision mechanical parts where metal replacement is desired for weight reduction and cost efficiency.
Is POM suitable for high-temperature applications?
Yes, POM offers excellent thermal stability with continuous service temperatures up to 100°C and short-term exposure to 140°C. The material maintains its mechanical properties and dimensional stability across this temperature range, making it suitable for automotive engine compartments, industrial machinery, and other elevated temperature applications.
What's the difference between POM homopolymer and copolymer?
POM homopolymer (like Delrin®) offers higher strength, stiffness, and hardness but is more sensitive to alkaline environments. POM copolymer (like Hostaform® and Celcon®) provides better chemical resistance, particularly to alkaline conditions, improved thermal stability, and easier processing, though with slightly lower mechanical properties. Copolymers are preferred for applications requiring enhanced chemical resistance.
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