Oil Nylon Material Overview

Oil nylon is a modified engineering plastic produced by adding lubricating oil during the polymerization process.
This improves its self-lubricating performance and reduces friction in mechanical applications.

The material is widely used where low friction, wear resistance, and long service life are required.

oil nylon sheet rod

Manufacturing Process

  • Nylon Sheet → Produced by casting process
  • Nylon Rod and Tube → Produced by extrusion process

The casting process allows higher molecular weight and better mechanical performance compared to standard nylon materials.

oil nylon tube

Key Features

  • Built-in self-lubrication reduces the need for external lubrication
  • High wear resistance for long service life
  • Good impact resistance and structural strength
  • Easy machining for custom components
  • Suitable for dry-running applications

Applications

Oil nylon materials are commonly used in mechanical components such as:

  • Bearings and bushings
  • Gears and sprockets
  • Shaft sleeves
  • Friction plates
  • Bearing blocks

chain wheel nylon

For higher wear resistance and longer service life, UHMW PE materials are also available as an alternative solution.

Oil Nylon vs UHMW PE – Material Comparison

For applications requiring higher wear resistance and lower friction, UHMW PE is often the preferred choice.

Property Oil Nylon (PA) UHMW PE
Friction Low (self-lubricating) Very low (excellent self-lubrication)
Wear Resistance Good Excellent (much higher)
Impact Resistance Good Outstanding
Weight Light Very light
Noise Low Very low
Moisture Absorption Higher Very low
Best Application Bearings, gears, bushings Liners, chutes, conveyors

PU vs UHMW PE vs Nylon – Material Selection Guide

Property PU Polyurethane UHMW PE Nylon (PA / Oil Nylon)
Wear Resistance Excellent (up to 4× UHMW) Very good Good
Friction Medium Very low (best) Low
Impact Resistance Excellent Outstanding Good
Elasticity High Low Medium
Moisture Absorption Low Very low Higher
Noise Low Very low Low
Best Application High wear & heavy impact Low friction & smooth flow Mechanical parts & load-bearing
  • Choose PU → for extreme wear and high-impact conditions
  • Choose UHMW PE → for low friction and smooth material flow
  • Choose Nylon → for mechanical components like gears and bearings

Not sure which material is suitable for your application? Send us your working conditions, and we will recommend the best solution.

3 Quick Questions to Choose the Right Material

  • Is your application facing heavy wear or strong impact?
    → Choose PU Polyurethane for maximum durability
  • Do you need smooth material flow and low friction?
    → Choose UHMW PE to reduce sticking and improve efficiency
  • Are you making mechanical parts like gears or bushings?
    → Choose Nylon (PA) for strength and machinability

Still not sure? Send us your application details, and we will recommend the best material for you.

Looking for Low-Friction Plastic Components?

Send us your drawing or application details, and we will recommend the most suitable material solution.