Within the world of plastics, Ertacetal (Acetal) stands out as a widely utilized thermoplastic. Known chemically as "PolyOxyMethylene" or simply POM, Ertacetal is available in two primary forms: Copolymer acetal (POM-C) and homopolymer acetal (POM-H), commonly referred to as Delrin®. At Ai Plastics, we offer both grades in various sizes, tailored to specific customer needs.

The Differences

Ertacetal C (Acetal C)

This copolymer provides excellent performance at a slightly reduced cost compared to Acetal H/Delrin. While the properties of the two grades are quite similar, Acetal C's lower stress levels and high tensile strength ensure flatness and dimensional stability up to 100 degrees Celsius. At Ai Plastics, Ertacetal C is available in both rod and sheet formats and is suitable for food applications since it is FDA approved. The material is available in both black and natural colors.

Additional advantages include:

• Superior dimensional stability due to its lower crystallinity.
• Better resistance to hot water and strong caustic substances, particularly in high pH (basic) environments.
• A lower coefficient of friction along with enhanced impact and wear resistance, especially in wet or humid conditions.

Ertacetal H / Acetal

Ertacetal (Acetal) Homopolymer offers slightly superior mechanical properties compared to Acetal C. It boasts greater stiffness, higher flexural modulus at room and elevated temperatures, lower thermal expansion rates, and often improved wear resistance. Some key features of Ertacetal H include:

• Increased stiffness with a higher flexural modulus at both ambient and elevated temperatures.
• Slightly enhanced tensile and impact strength at room and lower temperatures.
• Marginally harder, resulting in a lower coefficient of friction.

The Similarities

In most cases, Ertacetal homopolymer and copolymer can be used interchangeably due to their material properties being approximately 10% apart. A common characteristic within the engineering plastics community is the ease of machining. Unlike other engineering plastics, Ertacetal C and H maintain their shape during machining and are less prone to chipping, making them ideal for precision work.

Both grades are renowned for their high mechanical strength, low thermal expansion, low water absorption, and excellent creep resistance. Their high lubricity contributes to their exceptional abrasion resistance and very low coefficient of friction.

Learn More

For further insights into Ertacetal C and H, contact us at 0161 727 0255 or visit our website to download our detailed datasheets. You can also reach out to us with any specific queries.

Common Applications

Owing to their diverse properties like lubricity, strength, chemical resistance, and machining ease, Ertacetal (C and H) finds application in thousands of industries. Popular uses include:

• Conveyor system components
• Automotive and fuel-related parts
• Sliding and guiding mechanisms
• Gears and bearings
• Zippers
• Electrical components and insulation
• Winter sports gear
• Pump and valve parts

Get in Touch

For technical support regarding Ertacetal C and H, please call us at 0161 727 0255 or explore our resources online. Feel free to email us your questions as well.