Nylon / Polyamide filament

Nylon / Polyamide filament

Nylon filaments are Polyamide (PA) materials available for 3D printing in the grades PA-6, PA -6/66 and PA12.

Traditionally, nylon has been used mainly for the manufacture of fibres, yarns and engineering parts. It is found in applications requiring high-strength materials: gears, fittings and bearings, in the automotive industry and for power tool housings.

Nylon filaments are renowned for their high toughness and durability, and are particularly well suited to environments with high mechanical demands.

The high impact resistance, good sliding properties and excellent wear resistance of this material make it a perfect candidate for demanding professional environments. High-performance for welding and bonding, nylon is truly a material to have in your range of 3D printing filaments.

In 3D printing, spools of nylon filament are among the most sensitive in terms of moisture pick-up, so it's vital to store your materials away from moisture. Use a standard Polybox for your spool and it is even preferable to dry it for a few hours before use(find our storage solutions for your filaments here).

More or less sensitive to warping depending on the grade, nylons are materials that require the use of a suitable adhesion solution (Magigoo PA).

How to choose your Nylon filament?

The Polyamide family includes different grades of nylon, each with its own specific characteristics.

If your application requires high strength performance in an environment with little exposure to humidity, the PA6-CF Polymaker with 20% carbon fibre is ideal.

On the other hand, if your part is used in a slightly wetter environment and you need excellent surface finish, the PA12-CF will meet your needs. The latter, which is simpler, is also slightly easier to print because of its lower fibre density.

It should be noted that the packaging of these materials is of vital importance. For example, Polymaker dries its polyamide filaments and vacuum-packs them to protect them from moisture.

Which nylons for which applications?

Nylon filaments based on PA6-6 are used in a wide range of sectors, mainly in the manufacture of tools, wear parts and components subject to impact, stress and friction.

PA 12 is used more in the electrotechnical, tyre, food processing, packaging and medical industries.