Mysite Group

Polyoxymethylene, often abbreviated as POM and commonly known as acetal, is a high-performance engineering thermoplastic widely recognized for its excellent mechanical properties, dimensional stability, and resistance to wear. It is a semi-crystalline polymer that falls under the category of polyacetals, produced through the polymerization of formaldehyde. POM exhibits a unique combination of strength, stiffness, and toughness, making it an ideal material for precision parts that require durability, low friction, and resistance to mechanical stress. Due to its balance of performance characteristics, it is frequently used as a substitute for metals in industrial and consumer applications.

One of the most notable properties of polyoxymethylene is its high strength-to-weight ratio. It maintains excellent rigidity, even under demanding conditions, while offering a lightweight structure compared to metals such as steel or aluminum. This characteristic makes it suitable for components where weight reduction is critical without compromising performance. Its low coefficient of friction and excellent wear resistance also contribute to its widespread use in applications involving sliding or rotating parts, such as gears, bearings, and bushings. The ability of POM to retain dimensional accuracy even under continuous stress and variable temperatures further enhances its reliability in mechanical systems.

POM is available in two primary forms: homopolymer and copolymer. Homopolymer POM consists of repeating units of formaldehyde and offers slightly higher crystallinity, resulting in superior strength and stiffness. However, it can be less stable thermally and more prone to degradation in acidic or high-temperature environments. Copolymer POM, on the other hand, is made by incorporating a small amount of comonomer, which improves thermal and chemical stability while sacrificing a small degree of rigidity. Both forms are commercially important, with their selection depending on the intended application’s performance and environmental requirements.

The processing characteristics of POM are also advantageous for manufacturers. It can be easily injection molded, extruded, or machined, enabling the production of complex and precise components with tight tolerances. The smooth surface finish achievable with POM is another significant benefit, particularly in industries such as automotive and consumer goods where aesthetics and performance are equally valued. Additionally, POM exhibits low moisture absorption, which ensures dimensional stability and prevents swelling or distortion, unlike many other engineering plastics.

In the automotive industry, polyoxymethylene plays a crucial role due to its ability to replace metal parts while maintaining mechanical strength. It is used in fuel system components, door locks, seatbelt mechanisms, window regulators, and gears. Its resistance to fuels, lubricants, engineering plastic, gear material, mechanical strength and chemicals makes it particularly suitable for under-the-hood applications. As automakers continue to emphasize lightweight materials to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, POM has gained further relevance as an alternative to metal-based components. Consumer goods also benefit greatly from POM’s versatility. It is used in the production of zippers, buckles, handles, buttons, and small mechanical devices that require repeated use and resistance to wear.