POM materials
POM (polyoxymethylene) is often considered for dimensionally controlled moving components. Homopolymer, copolymer and modified grades are not interchangeable. Compare friction, wear and dimensions only with the counterface, load, speed, temperature and environment understood.
POM handling and processing guide
This family-level guide is for preliminary screening, not a production recipe. Use the latest manufacturer instructions for the exact grade and equipment for drying, processing and safety settings; validate the process and part before production.
Storage
Keep original packaging sealed and free of contamination. Separate grades, colors and regrind, and record storage and opening status.
Drying
Use the manufacturer's instructions for the specific grade and packaging condition to determine whether drying is needed. If required, follow its limits and avoid overheating.
Equipment setup
Follow grade-specific melt-temperature, residence-time, purging and shutdown instructions and provide local exhaust. Check compatibility and purging before changing resins; do not mix POM with incompatible materials such as PVC. Stop and follow supplier safety procedures if degradation or unusual fumes are suspected.
Typical applications
Candidate uses include gears, sliding parts, valve bodies and fasteners; validate friction, wear, media exposure and load life in service.
Manufacturer example (specific to its products): Celanese Celcon acetal processing guide
How to screen and compare grades
Start with the part’s operating temperature and exposure time, load, contact media, dimensional requirements and intended process. Compare specific manufacturers and grades: results with different test methods, specimen conditions, units or reinforcement are not automatically equivalent. A missing field means the information is unknown, not zero.
From data sheets to part validation
Use the database to build a shortlist, then request original data sheets, processing guidance and applicable certification from each manufacturer. Mold representative parts using the intended process and check dimensions, strength and function under the relevant combination of temperature, media and load; retain processing and lot records. Family-level guidance is not a guarantee for a particular grade.
Further reading: Ensinger — thermoplastic materials · ISO 1133-1 — melt flow testing
