Design Recommendations for Torlon Parts
Here are some of the important design recommendations for Torlon machining:
1. No Sharp internal Angles
All external corners should be rounded with fillets compared to sharp corners, which cause stress concentration internally. This enhances the durability of parts and reduces the possibility of cracking during either ingestion or machining.
2. Add Thread Radii
Make thread profiles rounded or with small radii at the root of the threads. This enhances strength against fatigue, thereby enhancing machining with ease to make tools that are more easily accessible, hence cleaner finishing.
3. Creep and Expansion
During the high-temperature conditions, Torlon can undergo low levels of thermal expansion or creep. The design should incorporate appropriate tolerances to ensure long-term dimensional control.
4. Consider shrinkage after machining.
Dimensional changes are possible through the post-machining processes, such as annealing. When design is being carried out, keep the potential shrinkage in mind, particularly when it comes to tight-tolerance or interlocking parts.
5. Minimize Wall Thickness
Do not go with very thin or thick walls. As far as possible, keep the wall thicknesses uniform to provide the right mix between strength and machinability and material economy.
Torlon CNC Machining Material of PAI
These are our most popular Torlon (P AI ) grades that we machine at TOPS Precision; these are chosen due to their outstanding mechanical, thermal, and wear-resistant qualities:
Torlon Grade | Key Attributes | Best Applications |
Torlon 4203 | Unfilled, high strength, excellent electrical insulation, low outgassing | Electrical insulators, vacuum parts, and semiconductor tools |
Torlon 4301 | PTFE + graphite filled; excellent wear resistance; low friction and creep | Bearings, bushings, wear pads, seals |
Torlon 5030 | 30% glass-filled; high rigidity; dimensional stability; high strength | Structural parts, load-bearing enclosures, and manifolds |
Torlon 5530 | 30% carbon-filled; electrically conductive; superior wear resistance | EMI shielding components, thrust washers, rollers |
Torlon 4435 | 10% PTFE + 10% graphite + 10% carbon fiber; improved tribological properties | Low-lubrication sliding applications, bearing cages |
Torlon 4275 | Slightly modified 4203; improved toughness and impact resistance | High-impact fixtures, mechanical guides |
Torlon AI-30 | 30% carbon fiber filled; highest modulus among grades; good conductivity | Aircraft structural fittings, high-load bearings |
Torlon 4540 | 40% glass-filled; extremely rigid and wear-resistant | Mechanical clamps, mounting |