Nylon

Synthetic Polymer

Nylon for FDM & SLS 3D Printing

Nylon is a synthetic polymer known for its excellent strength, flexibility, and wear resistance.

In 3D printing, nylon is widely used for creating durable, functional parts that need to withstand repeated stress and friction. It also offers low friction and high chemical resistance, making it ideal for mechanical components.

Nylon can absorb moisture from the air, so it must be stored and handled carefully for optimal print quality.

Key Benefits

Nylon is a strong, flexible, lightweight, and chemically resistant material that offers low friction, good wear performance, and easy finishing options.

Strength & Durability

Nylon offers excellent mechanical strength for functional parts.

Impact Resistance

Balances toughness with flexibility, resisting cracks and breaks.

Low-Friction

Ideal for moving parts due to smooth surfaces and abrasion resistance.

Heat Resistant

Withstands many chemicals and moderate heat without degrading.

Electrical Insulation

Safe for use in electrical and electronic applications.

Easy to Dye & Finish

Can be coloured or finished post-print for aesthetic versatility.

Nylon Material Performance Radar Chart

Material Performance Radar Chart

Nylon (Polyamide) Performance Analysis

Nylon stands as the pinnacle of engineering-grade 3D printing materials, achieving perfect scores in strength, flexibility, and durability. This high-performance thermoplastic is the go-to choice for industrial applications where failure is not an option.

Exceptional Properties:

Unmatched Strength – Superior tensile and impact resistance
Self-Lubricating – Natural low friction for moving parts
Chemical Resistant – Withstands oils, fuels, and solvents
Wear Resistance – Outlasts other materials in abrasive conditions
Temperature Stable – Maintains properties up to 80°C

Professional Applications:

Gears, bearings, and bushings
Automotive and aerospace components
Industrial tooling and fixtures
Functional prototypes for testing
Medical devices and prosthetics
High-stress mechanical parts

Technical Challenges:

Moisture Sensitivity – Must be dried before printing
High Skill Required – Needs enclosed printer and experience
Significant Warping – Requires specialized bed adhesion
Premium Cost – 3-5x more expensive than standard materials

The Professional’s Choice: With an overall score of 3.5/5, Nylon’s lower rating reflects its challenging nature rather than poor performance. For applications demanding maximum strength and durability, no other FDM material compares. The high cost and technical difficulty are justified when component failure would be catastrophic.