Machining Ertalon 6 PLA

Ertalon 6 PLA is a registered trade name for cast polyamide 6 (cast nylon, PA 6 G). Chemically it is the same polyamide 6 as extruded PA 6 - the difference lies in the manufacturing process: Ertalon is polymerised directly in the mould by anionic polymerisation, producing a more highly crystalline, lower-stress material with more uniform properties, especially in large cross-sections.

Ertalon machines well - turning, milling, drilling and sawing produce clean results with good surface finish. Because of moisture absorption and thermal expansion, we account for swelling and shrinkage behaviour at tight tolerances and condition the semi-finished product if required.

Ertalon 6 PLA is worthwhile whenever the benefits of PA 6 are needed in large, thick-walled or low-stress components – for example:

• Large-format plain bearings, bushings and gears with large cross-sections
• Components where a low internal stress state is critical (dimensional stability, crack resistance)
• Large impact- and shock-loaded components in mechanical and plant engineering
• Applications in the oil and gas industry, wind power and conveying technology with large component dimensions
• Components for food processing (food-grade types available)

Cast polyamide such as Ertalon is priced higher than extruded PA 6, since the casting process is more elaborate and delivers larger, lower-stress semi-finished products. The component price is determined mainly by the shape and dimensions of the semi-finished product, material utilisation, machining effort and batch size. We are happy to provide binding prices on request based on your drawing.

For the highest dimensional stability under fluctuating humidity, POM is often the better choice. For continuous contact with hot water/steam or strong acids, continuous use above approx. 110 °C, flame-retardancy requirements, or very high chemical requirements, PVDF, PPS or PEEK are more suitable. For small standard parts, extruded PA 6 is usually more economical.

An honest assessment – and how the disadvantages can be mitigated in practice:

• Advantage: More highly crystalline, lower-stress material than extruded PA 6
• Advantage: Available in very large, thick-walled semi-finished products
• Advantage: Very high toughness and impact strength
• Advantage: High abrasion and wear resistance, good sliding properties
• Advantage: Machines and welds well
• Disadvantage: Absorbs moisture – dimensional and property changes
• Disadvantage: Not resistant to strong acids and hot water (hydrolysis)
• Disadvantage: Not flame-retardant (UL 94 HB), limited to approx. 110 °C continuous use
• Disadvantage: Higher price than standard extruded PA 6
• Practical tip: For smaller standard parts, extruded PA 6 is usually the more economical choice. For large-format, thick-walled or particularly low-stress components, Ertalon delivers its advantages in full.