Ultramid

Ultramid
Polyamide (PA)
(Europe)
BASF Plastics
key to your success
Ultramid
BASFs Ultramid grades are PA molding compounds
on the basis of PA 6, PA 66, various copolyamides such
as PA 66/6 and partially aromatic polyamide. Ultramid
stands out for its high mechanical strength, stiffness
and thermal stability. Moreover, it is tough at low temperatures, has a favorable sliding friction behavior and
permits problem-free processing. Owing to its excellent
properties, this material has become indispensable in
almost every technical realm for a wide array of components and machine elements, also as high-grade electric insulating material and for many special
applications.
Ultramid the material of choice

in todays automotive sector
in the electric and electronic industry
for plumbing and sanitary engineering
4
6
8
04-09
10
12
18
22
24
26
27
28
10-29
The properties of Ultramid

Product range
Mechanical properties
Thermal properties
Water absorption and dimensional stability
Electrical properties
Fire behavior
Resistance to chemicals
Behavior on exposure to weather
Behavior on exposure to high-energy radiation
Viscometric and molecular data
29
The processing of Ultramid

Processing characteristics
General notes on processing
Injection molding
Processing by injection molding
Machining
Joining methods
Printing, embossing, laser marking, surface coating,
metallizing, surface coloring
Conditioning
Annealing
30
32
34
38
50
30-53
52
General information
Safety notes
Quality management
Quality assurance
Delivery and storage
Colors
Ultramid and the environment
Services
Product range
Ultramid Nomenclature
Subject Index
The product range of BASF plastics at a glance
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
63
54-63
Ultramid in todays
automotive sector
The very high quality and safety standards in modern automotive engineering make high demands on
the materials employed. Ultramid offers high thermal stability, dynamic strength, impact resistance
and long-term performance.
These engineering properties of Ultramid can be
combined in exceptional manner with intelligent
concepts in todays automotive industry. Here, on
account of its broadly based functionality Ultramid

has great potential for the economically optimized
production of structural components and modules.
Further criteria such as lightweight construction,
recyclability and integrated system solutions combining different materials demonstrate the superiority of Ultramid in comparison with conventional
materials.
Typical Ultramid applications in automotive engineering:

Parts in the engine block and in engine lubrication, e.g. air intake
modules, engine covers, oil sumps, oil filter housings, valve bonnet and
cylinder head covers, camshaft timing gears, chain guides, toothed belt
covers.
Parts and housings for cooling and ventilation systems, e.g. radiator
tanks and heat exchangers for heating purposes, water expansion
tanks, hot-water control valves, thermostat housings, fans, fan frames.
Parts in the fuel supply system, e.g. fuel filter housings, fuel reservoirs
and lines.
Seat
Ul trami d the materi al of c hoi c e
Generator end cap
Lower Bumper Stiffener
Parts in gears, clutches, clutch thrust bearings, gearshifts and speedometer drives, such as bearing cages, gearshift-lever housings, shift
forks, shift links, speedometer drive pinions and gear thrust disks.
Chassis parts, e.g. steering wheels, steering column mountings, roller
bearing cages and fastening clips.
Exterior parts, e.g. structural parts, spoilers, door sills, radiator grills,
exterior door handles, door-mirror housings and wheel covers.
Parts for electrical fittings, e.g. cable harnesses, straps and connectors, headlamp housings, lamp holders and fuse boxes.
Engine cover
Ultramid in the electric and

electronic industry
Its excellent electrical insulation properties,
advantageous sliding friction characteristics and
outstanding mechanical strength make Ultramid
a material which is employed in almost all fields
of power engineering as well as mechanical and
chemical engineering.
Plug connector
Power engineering
High-tension insulated switch parts and housings, cable fastenings and
ducts, terminal blocks and connectors, plug-in devices, coil formers,
parts for domestic appliances such as instantaneous water heaters,
solenoid valves, power tool housings and power circuit breakers.
General mechanical and chemical engineering
Bearings, gear wheels, transmissions, seals, housings, flanges, clamps,
connectors, bolts, housings for air-pressure gages, housings for pumps
at gas stations and nutting collars.
Materials-handling technology
Rollers, pulleys, bushings, transport containers, conveyor belts and
chains.
Precision engineering
Control disks and cams, parts for counting mechanisms, lever and
transmission links, daisy wheels for teletypewriters, mounting frame
parts, control levers and sliding elements.
Circuit breaker
Plug-in connector
Terminal block
Ultramid for plumbing and

sanitary engineering
In plumbing and sanitary engineering Ultramid
is the material of choice in many applications,
especially for parts subject to high mechanical
loading. Ultramid has likewise proved to be
outstandingly effective in packaging materials
for foods and cosmetics.
Housing
Plumbing
Wall dowels and masonry anchors, fasteners, cable and pipe clamps.
Sanitation
Handles, fittings, fixtures and fans.
Household
Seating furniture, chair frames, furniture casters, cooking utensils
and hammer shafts.
Coolant throughput
Measuring stick
Sanitary set (Hewi)
Awning plug
Ultramid is the tradename for polyamides supplied

by BASF for injection-molding and extrusion. The
product range includes PA 6 grades (Ultramid B),
PA 66 grades (Ultramid A), PA 6/6T grades
(Ultramid T) as well as special grades based on
copolyamides, e.g. PA 66/6. Ultramid A is produced
by condensation polymerization of hexamethylene
diamine and adipic acid, Ultramid B by hydrolytic
polymerization of caprolactam and the copolyamides
by polycondensation or hydrolytic polymerization of

caprolactam, hexamethylene diamine, adipic acid
and terephthalic acid. Ultramid T is obtained by
polycondensation of caprolactam, hexamethylene
diamine and terephthalic acid. The most important
starting materials, adipic acid, caprolactam, hexamethylene diamine and terephthalic acid are obtained from petrochemical feedstocks such as cyclohexane, benzene and toluene.
The most important characteristics of Ultramid are:

The Ultramid range comprises the following groups of products:
Ultramid B
(unreinforced) is a tough, hard material affording parts with good
damping characteristics and high shock resistance even in dry state
and at low temperatures. PA 6 is distinguished by particularly high
impact resistance and ease of processing.
High strength and rigidity

Very good impact strength
Good elastic properties
Outstanding resistance to chemicals
Dimensional stability
Low tendency to creep
Exceptional sliding friction properties
Simple processing
Product range
Polyamides 6, 66 and 6T form the basis of the Ultramid B and A
grades as well as the copolyamide grades. These are supplied in a
variety of molecular weights or melt viscosities, have a range of additives and are reinforced with glass fibers or minerals. More detailed
information on the individual products may be found in the Ultramid
range chart.
Ultramid A
(unreinforced) polyamides, is along with Ultramid T the material with
greatest hardness, rigidity, abrasion resistance and thermostability. It
is one of the preferred materials for parts subject to mechanical and
thermal stresses in electrical, mechanical, automotive and chemical
engineering.
Ultramid C
This is the name given to copolyamides made from PA 6 and PA 66
modules. They exhibit different properties according to their composition.
Table1: Ultramid grades

Ultramid
PA
Chemical structure
Ultramid B
polycaprolactam NH(CH2)5CO
220
Ultramid A
66
polyhexamethylene adipamide NH(CH2)6NHCO(CH2)4CO
260
Ultramid C Copolyamides
66/6
copolymer of hexamethylene diamine adipic acid and caprolactam
243
Ultramid T Copolyamides
6/6T
copolymer of caprolactam hexamethylene diamine and terephthalic acid
298
10
Melting point [C]
T he pr oper ti es of Ul trami d
Ultramid T
This class of partly aromatic copolyamides possesses very high thermostability (melting point 298C), rigidity, dimensional stability and
constant mechanical properties under conditions of varying humidity.
A3EG10, A3WG10
T KR 4355 G7
A3EG7, B3G8
A3EG6, A3X2G10, B3EG6
A3EG5, A3X2G7,
B3EG5, B3ZG6
A3X2G5
Glass-fiber reinforced Ultramid

These materials are distinguished by high mechanical strength, hardness, rigidity, thermostability and resistance to hot lubricants and hot
water. Parts made from them have particularly high dimensional stability and creep strength. Glass-fiber reinforced Ultramid T is moreover
exceptional for its extraordinarily high heat resistance (290C).
B3EG3
B3WGM24
T KR 4350
A3K, B3S
B3M6
Reinforced grades with flame retardants

Ultramid grades treated in this way including C3U, A3X2G5, A3X2G7,
A3X2G10, B3UG4 and T KR4365 G5 are particularly suitable for electrical parts required to meet enhanced specifications for fire safety and
tracking current resistance.
Mineral-filled Ultramid
The special advantages of these materials lie in increased rigidity, good
dimensional stability, low tendency to warp, smooth surfaces and good
flow characteristics.
A3R
B3L
A3Z
50
100
150
200
250
Yield stress / Tensile stress [MPa], 23C, dry state
Fig.1: Yield stress (tensile stress in the case of reinforced grades) for
selected Ultramid grades at 23C in the dry state (ISO 527)
A3EG10
T KR 4355 G7
A3EG7, B3ZG8
A3EG6
B3WGM24, B3EG6, B3ZG6
A3EG5, A3HG5, B3EG5
B3EG3, B3ZG3
B3M6
B3S
A3K, A3W
A3R, B3L
5000
10000
15000
Modulus of elasticity [MPa], 23C, dry state
Fig. 2: Modulus of elasticity for selected Ultramid grades at 23C

in the dry state (ISO 527)
11
The Ultramid product range includes grades with many combinations

of mechanical properties.
One particular feature of the unreinforced grades is the ideal combination of moderate strength, rigidity and creep strength while impact
resistance and sliding friction properties are excellent.
Tensile stress [MPa]
Mechanical properties
220
Temperature 23C
200
T KR 4355 G7
180
160
140
These advantages are attributable to the partially crystalline structure

and the strong cohesive forces between molecules brought about by
hydrogen bonding between neighboring amido groups.
120
A3EG7
T KR 4350
100
A3EG5
B3EG6
80
60
The reinforced grades offer high rigidity, high creep strength, hardness
and dimensional stability while resistance to heat and heat aging are
outstanding.
A3K
B3S
40
20
0
Moisture content [%]
Shear modulus [MPa]
Fig. 3: Tensile stress (yield stress in the case of unreinforced grades)

for Ultramid as a function of moisture content at 23C (ISO 527)
A3EG6
A3EG10
10 3
A3K
10 2
A3WG3
10 1
T KR 4355 G7
10 0
-50
Plug connector
12
50
100
150
200
250 300
Temperature [C]
Fig. 4: Shear modulus of Ultramid A and T grades as a function of

temperature (DIN 53445, dry)
10 3
B3EG6
B3K
10 2
Modulus of elasticity [MPa]
Shear modulus [MPa]
B35EG3
B3M6
16000
14000
12000
10000
8000
B3WG6, B3EG6
6000
B3EG3, B35EG3
4000
10 1
B3WG5
B3WGM24
2000
10 0
-50
50
100
150
200
0
-40 -20
250
B3M6
0
20
40
60
Temperature [C]
Temperature [C]
16000
14000
A3WG10, A3EG10
12000
10000
A3WG7, A3EG7
8000
6000
Fig. 7: Modulus of elasticity of reinforced Ultramid B grades as a

function of temperature (Flexural test ISO 178, dry)
Fig. 5: Shear modulus of Ultramid B grades as a function of

temperature (DIN 53445, dry)
A3WG5, A3EG5,
A3HG5
16000
14000
12000
10000
6000
4000
2000
2000
20
T KR 4355 G7
8000
4000
0
-40 -20
80 100 120 140 160
40
60
80 100 120 140 160

Temperature [C]
Fig. 6: Modulus of elasticity of reinforced Ultramid A grades as a

function of temperature (Flexural test ISO 178, dry)
0
-40 -20
A3WG7
T KR 4350
A3K
0
20
40
60
80 100 120 140 160

Temperature [C]
Fig. 8: Tensile modulus of elasticity (ISO 527) of Ultramid T compared

with that of Ultramid A as a function of temperature in the dry state
13
The product range can be classified by six groups

according to the modulus of elasticity:
Impact-modified unreinforced grades
1.500-2.000 MPa
Unreinforced grades
2.700-3.500 MPa
Mineral-filled, impact-modified grades (+GF) 3.800-4.600 MPa
Mineral-filled grades (+GF)
3.800-9.300 MPa
Impact-modified, glass-fiber reinforced grades 5.200-11.200 MPa
Glass-fiber reinforced grades
5.200-16.800 MPa
The mechanical properties are affected by the temperature, time and
moisture content and by the conditions under which the test specimens were prepared.
Ultramid T is exceptional here in that its mechanical properties are
largely independent of variations in surrounding moisture.
In the case of the reinforced grades additional factors having a significant effect on properties are, for example, the glass-fiber content, the
orientation, average length and length distribution of the fibers, and the
pigmentation.
The yield stress of dry, unreinforced Ultramid ranges from 70 to 100
MPa while that of the reinforced grades rises as high as 250 MPa.
The behavior under short-term uniaxial tensile stress is presented as
stress-strain diagrams (cf. Figs. 9-11) in which the effects of temperature, reinforcement and moisture content are illustrated.
High creep strength and low tendency to creep are also exhibited,
especially in the reinforced grades.
14
Circular connector
Impact strength, low-temperature impact strength

Polyamides are very tough materials. They are suitable for parts
required to exhibit high resistance to fracture. Standard test values
generally determined under different conditions are used to characterize their impact behavior (cf. the Ultramid range chart).
Although the values are not directly comparable with one another
due to the differing test setups, test specimen dimensions and notch
shapes, they do allow comparison of molding materials within the individual product groups.
Tests on finished parts are indispensable for the practical assessment
of impact behavior. The falling weight test, for example, carried out
on housings, sheets or test boxes (cf. Fig.12) in conformity with
DIN 53443, Part 1, has proved to be effective for this purpose. The
measure of toughness is the fracture energy W50 (J) at which 50%
of the parts tested fail. On this basis high-impact, unreinforced
Ultramid grades even in the dry state at 23C, and sometimes even
at low temperatures, attain values>140 J, i.e. the parts do not break
when, for example, a 10 kg weight is dropped on them from a height
of 1.4 m (impact speed=5.3 m/s).
However, the behavior of Ultramid when subjected to impact is
affected by many factors, of which the most important are the
shape of the part and the rigidity of the material.
C
B3WG5
-20
180
160
23
140
120
100
-20
80
23
B3S
200
T KR 4350
Test speed:
50 mm/min
200
23C
60C
150
80C
60
100
100
60C
120
60
40
60
20
100
T KR 4355 G7
Test speed:
5 mm/min
150
23C
100C
150C
80C
50
100C
0
0
10
Fig. 9: Stress-strain diagrams for Ultramid B3S and B3WG5 (dry)

in accordance with ISO 527 (test speed 2 mm/min)
A3K
200
+23C
180
A4K
-20
160
A3K, A3W
23
140
60
100
-20
80
23
60
150
100
20
B3S
-20C
A3Z
100
120
60
40
Falling weight
P
B3L
r=
1.5
A3K
0
1
10
Fig.11: Stress-strain diagrams for Ultramid T, dry, in accordance

with ISO 527
A3EG5
120
Elongation [%]
Elongation [%]
2
Elongation [%]
Fig.10: Stess-strain diagrams for Ultramid A3K und A3EG5 (dry)

in accordance with ISO 527 (test speed 2 mm/min)
10
1,5
40
120
(mm)
>14
Fracture energy W50 [J]
Fig.12: Impact strength of reinforced Ultramid at +23 and -20C

determined in the dry state as the fracture energy W50 in accordance
with DIN 53443, Part 1 (test box, wall thickness=1.5 mm, uncolored)
15
As can be seen in Fig.13 there are Ultramid grades with the most
varied combinations of impact strength and rigidity.
Depending on application, requirements, design and processing, products which are unreinforced, of relatively high molecular weight, glassfiber reinforced, mineral-filled or impact modified can be selected each
having an optimum relationship between impact strength and rigidity.
The advice below should also be taken into account when choosing
suitable materials.
Moisture promotes the toughness of Ultramid, even at low temperatures. In the case of glass-fiber reinforced grades the impact strength
of finished parts decreases as the glass fiber content rises while
strength and the values in the flexural impact test for standardized test
specimens increase. This effect is due to differences in the orientation
of the glass fibers.
Unreinforced products of high molecular weight have proved to be
effective for thick-walled engineering parts required to exhibit high
impact strength.
Even in the dry state the impact-modified, unreinforced Ultramidgrades B3L, B3Z, and A3Z exhibit high impact strength. They are
employed when conditioning or intermediate storage for absorption of
moisture are uneconomic or when extremely high notched or low-temperature impact strength are called for.
Program selector switch
16
Apart from the particular processing conditions, the geometry of the

moldingwith the resultant moments of resistanceand especially
the wall thicknesses and the notch radii also play a major role in determining the fracture energy. Even the speed and point of impact significantly affect the results.
Behavior under long-term static loading
The static loading of a material for relatively long periods is marked by
a constant stress or strain. The tensile creep test in accordance with
ISO 899 and the stress relaxation test in accordance with DIN 53441
provide information about extension, mechanical strength and stress
relaxation behavior under sustained loading.
The results are presented as creep curves, creep modulus curves,
creep stress curves and isochronous stress-strain curves (Figs.14-15).
The graphs for standard conditions (in accordance with
DIN 50014-23/50-2) reproduced here are just a selection from
our extensive computer-based results.
Further values and diagrams for different temperature and atmospheric
conditions can be requested from the Ultra-Infopoint or found in the PC
program Campus. Design data obtained from uniaxial tensile loads
can also be used to assess the behavior of a material under multiaxial
loads.
Behavior under cyclic loads, flexural fatigue strength
Engineering parts are also frequently subjected to stress by dynamic
forces, especially alternating or cyclic loads, which act periodically in
the same manner on the structural part. The behavior of a material
under such loads is determined in long-term tests using tensile and
compressive loading (specimen shape in accordance with DIN 53455,
No. 3) alternating at up to very high load-cycle rates. In doing so the
temperature of the specimen is maintained at exactly the temperature
specified by controlling the frequency (BASF method). The results are
presented in Woehler diagrams obtained by plotting the applied stress
against the load-cycle rate achieved in each case (see Fig.16).
Fracture energy W 50 [J]
50
40
100
NK 23/50
10 103 104
5x10 4 h
90
80
10 h
70
120C
60
30
50
B3ZG3
B3ZG6
20
T KR 4355 G7
B3WGM24
2000
4000
6000
8000
10
A3WG6
extrapolated
0
10000 12000
NK 23/50
10 h
12
10 3
10
120 C
10
5
10
10 h
10
10
Fig.15: Isochronous stress-strain curves for Ultramid A3WG10 in

accordance with ISO 899 under standard atmospheric conditions
(23/50) and at 120C (in the dry state)
180
160
140
Temperature 23C
1 = A3WG7
2 = B3WG6
3 = A3HG5
120
100
80
1
2
3
60
Elongation [%]
Stress amplitude [MPa]
Fig.13: Impact strength, determined as the fracture energy W50 in

accordance with DIN 53443, Part 1 (cf. Fig. 12), and modulus of
elasticity (ISO 527) of reinforced Ultramid at 23C in the dry state
14
20
16
10
30
B3WM602
40
B35EG3
10
10
40
2
extrapolated
0
2
Elongation [%]
Fig.14: Isochronous stress-strain curves for Ultramid A3K in

accordance with ISO 899 under standard atmospheric conditions
(23/50) and at 120C (in the dry state)
4
1000
10 000
100 000
1000 000 10 000 000

Load-cycle rate
Fig.16: Flexural fatigue strength of glass-fiber reinforced Ultramid A,

B and T. Stress amplitude as a function of load-cycle rate at standard
moisture content (standard conditions 23/50)
17
In such cases the curves measured at higher temperatures have to be

used (Fig.17).
Tribological properties
A smooth, tough and hard surface, crystalline structure, high thermostability and resistance to lubricants, fuels and solvents make Ultramid
an ideal material for parts subjected to sliding friction. Its good dryrunning properties are worth pointing out. Whereas metallic materials
tend to jam under dry-running conditions, pairings with Ultramid run
satisfactorily even without lubrication.
Wear and friction are system properties which depend on many parameters, e.g. on the paired materials, surface texture and geometry of the
sliding parts in contact, the intermediate medium (lubricant) and the
stresses due to external factors such as pressure, speed and temperature.
Wear due to sliding friction
The most important factors determining the level of wear due to sliding
friction and the magnitude of the coefficient of sliding friction are the
hardness and surface roughness of the paired materials, the contact
pressure, the distance traversed, the temperature of the sliding surfaces and the lubrication. Fig. 18 shows friction and wear values determined in a specific tribological system for different Ultramid grades
having two degrees of surface roughness.
Especially Ultramid A3R and the mineral-filled grades, are distinguished by a low coefficient of sliding friction and low rates of wear
due to sliding friction (rate of wear S in m/km).
Drop erosion and cavitation
Ultramid has proved to be superior to aluminum in withstanding wear
stresses of this nature which play a significant role in water pumps for
example.
Jet erosion
Fans and automobile spoilers for example are exposed to this type of
stress which is caused by granular solids entrained in streams of air or
liquid. The advantageous elastic behavior of Ultramid results in high
resistance in this case.
18
Thermal properties
Ultramid has extraordinarily high melting temperatures:
Ultramid B: 220C
Ultramid C: 243C
Ultramid A: 260C
Ultramid T: 298C
Due to its semicrystalline structure and strong hydrogen bonding
Ultramid retains its shape even at elevated temperatures close to
the melting range.
Ultramid stands out among other partially crystalline thermoplastics
due to its low coefficients of linear expansion.
The reinforced grades in particular exhibit high dimensional stability
when exposed to temperature changes. In the case of the glass-fiber
reinforced grades, however, linear expansion depends on the orientation of the fibers as is evident from Fig.19.
Stress amplitude [MPa]
When applying the test results in practice it has to be taken into

account that at high load alternation frequencies the workpieces may
heat up considerably due to internal friction.
180
160
140
Temperature 90C
1 = A3WG7
2 = B3WG6
3 = A3HG5
120
100
80
60
40
4
1000
1
2
3
10 000
100 000
1000 000 10 000 000

Load-cycle rate
Fig.17: Flexural fatigue strength of glass-fiber reinforced Ultramid A

and B. Stress amplitude as a function of load-cycle rate (90C)
Mean depth of roughness
1.0 R = 0,15-0,20 m
z
0.8
Mean depth of roughness
1.0 R = 2,0-2,6 m
z
0.8
A3WG6
A3WG6
0.6
0.6
A3K
A3K
0.4
Linear expansion [%]
Coefficient of sliding friction []
Truck-engine sump
1.2
1.0
T KR 4350
perpendicular
to melt flow:
T KR 4355 G5
B3
A3
0.8
0.6
A3WG... u. B3WG...
0.4
0.4
A3R
0.2
parallel to
melt flow:
T KR 4355 G5
0.2
A3R
A3WG... u. B3WG...
0.2
-0.2
0
10
Wear rate S [m/km]
Fig.18: Coefficient of sliding friction and wear rates of unreinforced

and fiber reinforced Ultramid.
Tribological system: pin-on-disk apparatus, p=1 MPa, v=0.5 m/s
Paired material: Cr 6/800 HV steel, technically dry
-0.4
-20
0 20 40 60 80 100 120
Temperature [C]
Fig.19: Linear expansion of Ultramid grades as a function of

temperature (in the dry state)
19
Behavior on application of heat

Apart from its product-specific thermal properties the behavior of
components made from Ultramid on exposure to heat also depends
on the duration and mode of application of heat and on the mechanical loading. The design of the parts also has an effect. Accordingly, the
thermostability of Ultramid parts cannot be estimated simply on the
basis of the temperature values from the various standardized tests no
matter how valuable the latter might be for guidance and comparisons.
The shear modulus and damping values measured as a function of
temperature in torsion pendulum tests in accordance with DIN 53445
afford valuable insight into the temperature behavior. Comparison of
the shear modulus curves (Figs. 4 and 5) provides information about
the different thermomechanical effects at low deformation stresses and
speeds. Based on practical experience the thermostability of parts produced in optimum manner is in good agreement with the temperature
ranges determined in the torsion tests in which the start of softening
becomes apparent.
The test for heat resistance in accordance with VDE 0470, 4b
(ball indentation test), is usually specified for applications in electrical
equipment. The requirements of this test at 125C for supports for
voltage-carrying parts are met by finished parts made from all grades
of Ultramid. The reinforced grades are recommended for this
purpose.
Tension pulleys
20
Heat aging resistance

Stabilized Ultramid grades with K, E, H or W as the second letter in
their name are suitable for parts subjected to long-term-exposure to
high temperature.
Table 2 sets out the characteristics and effectiveness of this stabilization with reference to the example of Ultramid A.
Two characteristics are suitable for comparing heat aging resistance,
i.e. the response of the various Ultramid grades to the long-term
action of heat. These are the temperature index (TI) for exposure
to heat for 5.000 or 20.000 hours and the halving interval (HIC) in
accordance with IEC 216. In the case of Ultramid the decline in
tensile strength and impact strength to the limiting value (50% of
the initial value) are suitable evaluation criteria.
Diagrams of the thermal resistance, i.e. graphs of the times measured
at different temperatures for the initial value to change to the limiting
value, are reproduced by way of example in Fig. 20 for some unreinforced Ultramid grades. The TI values are also listed in the typical
values table in the Ultramid range chart.
Example without GF
A3K
Example with GF
Natural color
W
A3W
A3EG6
A3HG5
A3WG6
colorless colorless
brown
greenish
Effectiveness
days
200
with GF days
>1500
Hot water
coolants
()
700
1000
>2000
>2000
1000
10 000
100
Engine & transmission oils
Dielectric properties
()
= particularly suitable
= suitable or favourable
() = suitable, but with limitations
not recommended
* A3HG6 HR
10
100
A3K
A3W
B3S
T KR 4350
1
10
()
Outdoor exposure
Hammer drill
100 000
1000
Time taken at 120C for initial tensile strengh to drop by 50%

without GF
Hours
Code
Days
Table 2: Stabilized Ultramid A grades
0.1
1
80
100
120
140
160
180
Temperature [C]
Fig. 20: Heat aging resistance of unreinforced Ultramid grades under

the action of heat (graphic temperature profile) in accordance with
IEC 216-1; limiting value of property: 50% tensile strength
21
Heat aging resistance in hot lubricants, coolants and solvents

The widespread application of Ultramid in engineering, especially in
automotive engineering, e.g. in engine oil circuits and gearboxes, is
based on its outstanding long-term resistance to hot lubricants, fuels
and coolants and to solvents and cleaning agents. Fig. 21 shows how
the flexural and impact strength of Ultramid A and T are affected by
immersion in hot lubricants (120C) and coolants. H- and W-stabilized
grades are particularly resistant to lubricants and hot coolants.
A3HG6 HR has proved to be particularly successful in applications
in automobile cooling circuits.
Water absorption and dimensional stability

A special characteristic of polyamides in comparison with other thermo
plastics is their water absorption. In water or in moist air depending on
its relative humidity and dependant on time, temperature and wall
thickness moldings absorb a certain quantity of water so that their
dimensions increase slightly. The increase in weight on saturation
depends on the Ultramid grade and is listed in the tables in the range
chart. Fig. 22 shows how the absorption of moisture on saturation
depends on the relative humidity.
Information on the temperature limits for Ultramid exposed to the

action of these and other chemicals is provided by the Technical Information leaflet Resistance of Ultramid, Ultraform and Ultradur to
chemicals.
3 = A3HG5 in Shell Spirax EP 90 at 120 C

4 = A3HG5 in Klber Isoflex LDS lubricating grease
at 120 C
5 = A3EG6, A3WG6 in Glysantin / water (1:1) at 106 C
6 = A3HG6 HR in Glysantin / water (1:1) at 108 C
Flexural strength [MPa]
2 = A3HG5 in Shell Spirax HD 90 at 120 C
260
240
220
200
180
160
140
120
100
80
Impact strength [kJ/m 2]
1 = A3HG5 in Shell engine oil HD 15 w 40 at 120 C
120
110
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
7 = T KR 4355 G7 Shell Spirax at 120 C

8 = T KR 4355 G7 in Glysantin / water (1:1) at 110 C
1
2
5
6
5
2
7
8
1
4
3
0
500
1000
1500
2000
Duration of immersion [hours]
Fig. 21: Flexural strength (ISO 178) and impact strength (ISO 179) of Ultramid A3HG5, A3EG6, A3WG6 and T KR 4355 G7 in hot lubricants
and coolants as a function of immersion temperature (measurements at 23C) and duration of immersion
22
As can be seen from the Ultramid range chart, water absorption

results in increased impact strength, elongation at break and tendency
to creep whereas strength, rigidity and hardness decrease.
Water absorption [%]
Figs. 23-24 show the water absorption of Ultramid as a function of

storage time under various test conditions. It is evident from these that
in comparison with the PA 6 and PA 66 grades Ultramid T affords
distinct advantages with respect to water absorption.
in water
NK 23/50
10
B3S, 20C
8
B3EG6,
80C
Provided that the water is uniformly distributed in the molding,

Ultramid A and Ultramid B undergo a maximum increase in volume of
about 0.9% and a mean increase in length of 0.2 to 0.3% per 1% of
absorbed water. The dimensional change of the glass-fiber reinforced
grades amounts to less than 0.1% per 1% in the direction of the fiber
orientation (longitudinally). As a result of this the dimensions of these
grades, like those of the mineral-filled grades, remain particularly constant when humidity varies.
B3EG6, 20C
4
B3S
2
B3EG6
t
1
10 20
40 60 80 100 150
200 250
s = 2 mm
Time [d]
Water absorption [%]
Moisture absorption [%]
Fig. 23: Water absorption of Ultramid B as a function of storage time

and the conditioning parameters (specimen thickness 2mm)
Temperature range 10 C-70 C
B3S
A3K
B3EG6
A3EG6
in water
NK 23/50
10
A3K, 20C
8
A3EG6, 80C
A3EG6, 20C
T KR 4355 G7, 80C
4
A3K
2
2
T KR 4355 G7
0
20
40
60
80
100
Relative humidity [%]
Fig. 22: Equilibrium moisture content of Ultramid as a function of

relative humidity in the temperature range 10C-70C
(scatter: 0.2 to 0.4% absolute)
A3EG6
t
10 20
s = 2 mm
40 60 80 100 150
200 250
Time [d]
Fig. 24: Water absorption of Ultramid A and T as a function of

storage time and the conditioning parameters (thickness of
specimen 2 mm)
23
Electrical properties
Wherever there are high demands on fire properties the flameretardant grades A3X2G, T KR 4365 G5, C3U, B3UG4 and A3UG5 are
preferably used. The following points should be noted in relation to
electrical properties.
The products are characterized by a high tracking current resi-
stance which is only slightly impaired by the moisture content of
the material.
The specific volume resistance and the surface impedance are very
high; these values decline at elevated temperatures and also when
the water content is relatively high.
As for all electrical insulating materials when used in harsh
conditions continual wetting due to condensation must be
prevented by appropriate design measures.
Unfavorable operating environments such as hot pockets combined
with high air humidity, moist, warm conditions or poor ventilation can
adversely affect the insulating properties.
For the above reasons the performance of the components should
be carefully checked for each application. The values of the electrical
properties are listed in the range chart.
Figs. 25-27 show the effect of temperature and moisture on the
dielectric strength and specific volume resistivity of Ultramid A3X2G
and T KR 4355 G7.
Insulating materials are tested for the production of deposits harmful
to electrical contacts in accordance with the preliminary FTZ standard
547 PV1 (FTZ=Fernmeldetechnisches Zentralamt=German central
telecommunications technology office). The change in resistance of
relay contacts is measured after these together with the insulating
material have been stored in a desiccator at a temperature of 70C.
24
The Ultramid grades which on the basis of the results of this standard
test are suitable for electrical engineering applications are rated as not
harmful to electrical contacts.
The Ultramid grades A3X2G and T KR 4365 G5 contain a special
stabilizer to prevent the formation of red phosphorus decomposition
products which can occur some in polyamides with phosphorus-based
flame retardants. As is the case with all insulators parts made from
Ultramid, especially those intended for use under extreme conditions
of heat and humidity, must be carefully designed and tested to ensure
they operate reliably.
Overviews, tables and examples illustrating the use of Ultramid in
electrical, power and telecommunications engineering are presented in
the brochure Halogen-free flame-retardant Ultramid grades.
Dielectric strength E d [kV/mm]
The paramount importance of Ultramid in electrical engineering, especially for electrical insulating parts and housings in power engineering,
is attributable to its good insulating properties (volume resistance
and surface impedance) combined with its impact strength and creep
strength as well as its advantageous properties in relation to heat and
aging. As a result Ultramid is numbered among the high-performance
insulating materials.
30
A3EG6
20
25C
10
65C
80C
0
Fig. 25: Dielectric strength of Ultramid A3EG6 at different

temperatures as a function of moisture content (DIN 53481;
wall thickness 3 mm)
1 = A3EG6, A3HG5
2 = A3X2G5, A3WG6
dry
2% moisture
saturated
10 16
10 15
10 14
10 13
10
12
10 11
10 10
10
10 8
10 7
1
2
10 6
10 5
40
60
80
100
Specific volume resistivity [Ohm cm]
Specific volume resistivity [Ohm cm]
Online paintable car parts
10 16
10 15
10 14
T KR 4355 G7 (dry)
10 13
10 12
10 11
10 10
10 9
10 8
T KR 4355 G7 (moist)
10 7
120
140
160
Temperature [C]
Fig. 26: Specific volume resistivity of glass-fiber reinforced Ultramid A

with different moisture contents as a function of temperature
(DIN 53482)
20
40
60
80 100 120 140 160 180 200

Temperature [C]
Fig. 27: Specific volume resistivity of glass-fiber reinforced Ultramid T

in the dry state and following exposure to moist air (conditioned) as a
function of temperature (IEC 93)
25
Fire behavior
General notes
Ultramid A and B gradually start to decompose at a temperature
above 310C, and Ultramid T above 350C. In the temperature range
of 450C to 500C flammable gases are given off which continue to
burn after ignition. These processes are affected by many factors so
that, as with all flammable solid materials, no definite flash point can
be specified. The decomposition products have the odor of burnt horn.
The decomposition products from charring and combustion are mainly
carbon dioxide and water and depending on the supply of oxygen small
amounts of carbon monoxide, nitrogen and small amounts of nitrogen-containing compounds.Toxicological studies have shown that the
decomposition products formed in the temperature range up to 400C
are less toxic than those from wood, while at higher temperatures, the
toxicity is comparable. At higher temperatures they are equally toxic.
The calorific value Hu according to DIN 51900 lies in the range of
29.000 to 32.000 kJ/kg (unreinforced grades).
Transportation
DIN 75200 is the test method used in automotive engineering for
determining the flammability of materials in the passenger compartment of automobiles. Sheet specimens arranged horizontally are tested
with a Bunsen burner flame, a method which is largely equivalent
to FMVSS302 (USA). As can be seen in Table 3 Ultramid meets the
requirements.
Construction industry
The testing of building materials for the construction industry is carried
out in accordance with DIN 4102, Part 1, Fire behavior of building
materials and building parts. Sheets of unreinforced and glass-fiber
reinforced Ultramid (thickness1 mm) are rated as normally flammable building materials1) in Building Materials Class B 2 (Designation
in accordance with the building regulations in the Federal Republic of
Germany).
Tests
Electrical engineering
Various material tests are carried out to assess the fire behavior of
electrical insulating materials.
In Europe the incandescent wire test in accordance with IEC 60695 is
often specified. Table 3 shows the classifications for Ultramid grades.
A further test for rod-shaped samples is the rating in accordance with
UL 94-Standard Tests for Flammability of Plastic Materials for Parts
in Devices and Appliances from the Underwriters Laboratory Inc./USA.
On the basis of this test method almost all unreinforced grades fall
into the UL 94V-2 class. The unreinforced, flame-retardant grade
Ultramid C3U attains the rating UL 94V-0. Moreover, IEC 60335
requires that household appliances which operate unattended and
through which high currents flow have to pass the GWIT 775 (GlowWire Ignitability Test).
The reinforced grades require the incorporation of a flame retardant in
order to achieve a correspondingly favorable rating. Examples include
the Ultramid grades A3X2GA3UG5 (with glass-fiber reinforcement),
B3UG4 and Ultramid T KR 4365 G5 as well as special mineralfilled
grades. The fire-protection properties are summarized in Table 3.
Table3: Fire performance

UL 94
A3K
V-2 (0.4mm)
960C2
pass
B3S
V-2 (1.5mm)
960C
pass
A3EG reinforced HB
650C
pass
B3EG reinforced HB
650C
pass
A3X2G10
V-0 (1.6mm)
960C
pass
A3X2G5/G7
V-0 (0.8mm)
960C
pass
B3UG4
V-2 (0.8mm)
960C
pass
C3U
V-0 (0.4mm)
960C
pass
T KR 4365 G5
V-0 (0.8mm)
960C
A3UG5
V-0 (0.8mm)
960C
1
2
26
Incandescent
wire test1 IEC
60695 2-12
FMVSS 302
(d1mm)
Ultramid
Material testing conducted on sheets (thickness of 1mm

Undyed; dyeing can have an influence.
Resistance to chemicals
Polyamid exhibits good resistance to lubricants, fuels, hydraulic fluids
and coolants, refrigerants, dyes, paints, cleaners, degreasing agents,
aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons and many other solvents even
at elevated temperatures.
Table 4 summarizes Ultramids resistance to the most important

chemicals. Further detailed information based on immersion tests
and practical trials is presented in our Technical Information leaflet
Resistance of Ultramid, Ultraform and Ultradur to chemicals.
Ultramid is likewise resistant, that is to say, corrosion-proof, to aqueous solutions of many inorganic chemicals (salts, alkalis). Special mention should be made of its outstanding resistance against stress-crack
formation. Many media such as, for instance, wetting agents, ethereal
oils, alcohols and other organic solvents do not detrimentally affect the
creep behavior of polyamide.
When clearing the use of the material, especially for components subject to high stresses and possible exposure to corrosive chemicals, its
chemical suitability should be verified. This may be done on the basis
of experience with similar parts made of the same material in the same
medium under comparable conditions or by testing parts under practical conditions.
Good resistance to chemicals is an important prerequisite for the use

of Ultramid in automotive, aerospace and chemical engineering.
Ultramid is not resistant to concentrated mineral acids. The same
applies to certain oxidants and chlorinated hydrocarbons, especially at
elevated temperatures. Attention should also be paid to its sensitivity to
certain heavy-metal salt solutions such as, for example, zinc chloride
solution. Fiberglass-reinforced brands can also be attacked by alkaline
media since the glass fibers are fundamentally not resistant to such
media.
Fixing caps
Table 4: Overview of the chemical resistance of Ultramid

Rating
Very good resistance
Good resistance1
No resistance
Solvents
Aliphatic hydrocarbons
Aromatic hydrocarbons
Alkalis
Brake fluids
Esters, ethers
Fats
Ketones
Fuel (gasoline, diesel)
Coolants
Paints
Solvents
Cleaning agents
Lubricants (oils, greases)
Detergents
Alcohols
Chlorinated hydrocarbons
Water
Aqueous solutions
Mineral acids
Certain organic acids
Oxidizing agent solutions
Phenols
Zinc chloride solutions
At room temperature
Formic acid (>60%)
Fluorinated alcohols
M-cresol
Sulfuric acid (96%)
Fats
At elevated temperatures
Benzyl alcohol
Phenol
Glycols
Formamide
nevertheless marked changes occur in weight, dimensions and mechanical proporties (strength, impact resistance)
27
Behavior on exposure to weather
Behavior on exposure to high-energy radiation
Ultramid is suitable for outdoor applications. Different grades come

into consideration depending on requirements.
Unreinforced Ultramid polyamide exhibits moderate resistance to radiation. The change in properties of unreinforced Ultramid resins due to
high-energy radiation varies with the grade of resin exposed.
The unreinforced, stabilized grades with K and H identifiers are highly

resistant to weathering even when unpigmented. Suitable pigmentation
increases outdoor performance still further, best results being achieved
with carbon black.
The reinforced grades also exhibit good resistance to weathering.
Stabilized grades, e.g. Ultramid B3EG5, can be relied upon to last
for well over five years.
Since the glass fibers near the surface are attacked more severely,
glass fiber reinforced grades may exhibit some surface texture and
color changes with short exposures. After several years exposure abrasion of the surface layer by up to several tenths of a millimeter can
be expected. However experience shows that this does not cause any
appreciable impairment of the mechanical properties.
Specially UV-stabilized grades and products with a high carbon black
content have proven to be very effective for outdoor applications, such
as housings for door mirrors on automobiles, in which surface quality
must not change even after several years use.
28
Some properties already change at low doses whereas others change

scarcely at all even at high doses. Irradiation with a 2 MeV electron
beam (high dose rate) gives rise to the changes in properties shown in
Fig. 28 for Ultramid A3 grades as a function of the absorbed
energy dose.
In the range up to 10.000 kJ/kg (1.000 Mrad) the electrical properties
(dielectric constant, loss factor, tracking current resistance) are
practically unaffected.
The glass-fiber reinforced grades, including those containing a flame
retardant, are extraordinarily resistant to radiation. A radiation dose
of 2.000 kJ/kg for example only results in a drop in impact strength of
15 to 30%. A gamma-ray dose of 25 kJ/kg has no adverse effects on
the mechanical properties of Ultramid. Uncolored or white-pigmented
parts assume a slight yellow tinge.
Impact strength [KJ/m 2]
The solution viscosity of polyamides can be determined by various

standard methods using different solvents. Table 5 gives the viscosity
numbers and other viscosity-related values as well as molecular data
and melt viscosities for various Ultramid base polymers. The viscosity
number and the melt volume flow rate MVR 275/5 or MVR 325/5 of
the individual grades are given in the range chart.
Percentage of original value

of the property [%]
Viscometric and molecular data
250
A3 grades unreinforced
200
Modulus of elasticity
150
Tensile strength
100
50
Elongation at break
Impact strength
0
0
1
10
10
100
100
1 000
50
1 000 10 000 [Mrad]

100 000 1 000 000 [kJ/kg]
Dose
A3X2G5
A3WG7
40
30
20
A3WG5
10
0
40
80
120
160
200
250
Radiation dose [Mrad]
Fig. 28: Behavior of Ultramid on exposure to high-energy radiation.

Impact strength (DIN 53453), tensile strength, modulus of elasticity
and elongation at break (DIN 53455) as a function of the absorbed
dose. Irradiation with 2 MeV electron beam, absorbed dose rate
0.5 Mrad/min.
Table5: Viscometric and molecular data for Ultramid B, A and T grades (typical values)
Unit
B3
B35
B4
A3
A4
T KR 4350
Viscosity number ISO 307

(sulfuric acid)
cm3/g
150
195
250
150
205
130
Viscosity number ISO 307

(formic acid)
cm3/g
143
187
250
134
196
Relative viscosity
(c=1 g/dl, sulfuric acid)
2.7
3.3
4.05
2.6
3.45
2.6
Number average
molar mass Mn
18000
24000
33000
18000
26000
160
210
290
160
230
Pas
140
280
400
130
210
175
cm3
(10min)
130
40
16
150
40
30
Number average
degree of polymerization
1)
Melt viscosity at 250/280

(shear rate=1000 s1)
2)
MVR
(Melt volume rate) DIN-ISO 1133,
procedure B at 275C/5 kg
3)
1)
for Ultramid A, expressed as 1/2 basic molecule

Ultramid B at 250C, Ultramid A at 280C, Ultramid T at 320C
3)
Die L/D = 8.0/2.1 mm , load 5 or 10 kg, moisture < 0.05%, Ultramid T at 325C/5 kg
2)
29
Ultramid can be processed in principle by all methods known for thermoplastics. The main methods
which come into consideration, however, are injection-molding and extrusion. Complex moldings are
economically manufactured in large numbers from
Ultramid by injection-molding.
The extrusion method is used to produce films,

semi-finished products, pipes, profiled parts, sheet
and monofilaments. Semi-finished products are for
the most part further machined by means of cutting
tools to form finished molded parts.
Information on the extrusion of Ultramid can be found in the BASF

brochure Ultramid grades in extrusion.
In the processing temperature range the Ultramid grades have a melt

viscosity of 10 to 1.000 Pa s, the actual value being highly dependent
on temperature and shear rate. The higher the relative molar mass or
the relative solution viscosity (given by the first digit in the name), the
higher is the melt viscosity and the greater the resistance to flow
(Fig. 31). In the case of Ultramid grades with mineral fillings or glassfiber reinforcement the viscosity increases in proportion to the amount
of reinforcing material incorporated.
Melting and setting behavior
The softening behavior of Ultramid on heating is shown by the shear
modulus and damping values measured in accordance with DIN 53445
as a function of temperature (Figs.4 and 5). Pronounced softening only
occurs just below the melting point, from about 270C for Ultramid T,
240C for Ultramid A and about 200C for Ultramid B. Glass-fibers
raise the softening point.
The melt also solidifies within a narrow temperature range which is
about 20C to 40C below the melting point depending on the rate
of cooling and the Ultramid grade in question. At the same time there
is a contraction in volume of 3% to about 15%. The total volumetric
shrinkage can be read off from the PVT diagrams in Fig. 29.
Thermal properties
The relatively high specific enthalpy of Ultramid, shown as a function
of temperature in Fig. 31, requires not only powerful heating elements
for melting, but also somewhat longer setting and cooling times which
are proportional to the square of the wall thickness or diameter.
Melt viscosity
The rheological properties of Ultramid melts are evaluated on the
basis of viscosity diagrams produced from measurements using a capillary rheometer or on the basis of injection-molding tests.
30
The melt viscosity can change over time. A rapid drop in viscosity can
occur for example when the melt is too moist, too hot or subjected to
high mechanical shear forces. Oxidation can also cause the viscosity
to fall. All these factors have an effect on mechanical properties and
the heating aging resistance of the finished parts or the semi-finished
products.
Thermostability of the melts
When correctly processed the thermostability of Ultramid melts is
outstanding. Under normal processing conditions the material is not
attacked or modified. Degradation in the polymer chains only occurs
when the residence time is relatively long. The recommended melt temperatures for processing may be found in Table 6 and in the Ultramid
range chart.
If the melt does not come into contact with oxygen, no noteworthy color
changes occur. Upon exposure to air, for example, when open injection
nozzles are used or in case of interruptions in production, the surface
can already become discolored after a brief time.
T he pr oc essi ng of Ul tr ami d
1
=
=
=
=
1 bar
500 bar
1000 bar
1500 bar
1 A3K
2
3 1
4 2
3
4
T KR 4350
B3S 1bar
0.95
0.9
0.85
B3EG6 1bar
0.8
0.75
0.7
0.65
Viscosity h [Pa s]
Specific volume [cm 3/g]
1
2
3
4
1.05
Ultramid B4, B35, B3 = 250C
10 4
B4
10 3
B35
B3
1
2
3 A3EG6
4
10 2
1
2 A3EG10
3
4
10 1
10 0
0
50
100
150
200 250
300
101
350 350
10 2
10 3
10 4
10 5
10 6
Shear rate D [s -1]
Fig. 29: PVT diagrams for Ultramid A, B and T
Fig. 31: Apparent viscosity of Ultramid A, B and T (unreinforced) as a

function of shear rate
Enthalpy D H [kJ/kg]
Viscosity h [Pa s]
Temperature [C]
D Hs = 80 kJ/kg
800
Ultramid A
600
10 4
Ultramid A4, A3 = 280C

T KR 4350 = 330C
10 3
A4
Ultramid B
400
Ultramid T
200
10 1
10 0
20
60
100
150
200
250
Temperature [C]
Fig. 30: Enthalpy of Ultramid A, B and T (unreinforced) as a function of

temperature
A3
10 2
101
T KR 4350
10 2
10 3
10 4
10 5
10 6
Shear rate D [s -1]
Fig. 32: Apparent viscosity of Ultramid A, B and T (unreinforced) as a

function of shear rate
31
General notes on processing

Preliminary treatment, drying
The flat or cylindrical pellets supplied in moisture-proof packaging
can be processed without any special preliminary treatment. Following improper storage, e.g. in open containers, it is strongly advisable
that the moist granules be dried in a dehumidifying or vacuum dryer.
Dehumidifying dryers are the most efficient and reliable. The maximum
permissible drying temperatures for Ultramid lie in the range of about
80C to 110C.
Pellets having pale colors sensitive to heat should be dried under mild
conditions at temperatures not exceeding 80C in order to avoid yellowing or a change in shade.
The drying time depends on the moisture content. The maximum permissible moisture content for injection-molding is 0.15%. In the case
of extrusion the limiting value is 0.1%. An excessively high moisture
content can result in degradation and plate-out, especially in the case
of flame-retardant grades. Fig. 33 presents the results of a drying trial
using a dehumidifying dryer (with continuous drying of return air). See
also the section Storage.
Start-up and shutdown
The processing machine is started up in the usual manner for thermoplastics. The barrel and nozzle heaters are set to achieve the melt
temperature required in each case (see Table 6 for guide values). As
a precaution the melt exposed to thermal stresses during the heatingup phase is pumped off. After this the optimum processing conditions
have to be determined in trials. When there are relatively long work
stoppages or when shutting the system down the machine should
if possible be run until it is empty and the heaters switched off. On
restarting, production can continue under the previously optimized processing conditions after a run-up phase.
When processing flame-retardant grades it is recommended that the
melt should not be pumped off but rather injected into the mold. If
pumping off cannot be avoided an extraction device (hood) should be
available and the melt cooled in the water bath (see Safety notes
Safety precautions during processing).
32
Compatibility of Ultramid grades among themselves and with

other thermoplastics
The Ultramid A, B, C and T grades are compatible with one another
within their own groups. Mixtures of Ultramid A, B or G with T have
only limited stability due to the high processing temperatures and have
to be checked with care. Ultramid A, B and C, however, are miscible
with one another under certain conditions. Due to the limited homogenizing action of most processing machinery excessive differences in
viscosity in the components to be mixed should be avoided.
Ultramid is homogeneously immiscible with most other thermoplastics including PS and ABS. Even small amounts of such extraneous
materials usually have an interfering effect which becomes apparent,
for example, in the form of a laminar structure, especially close to the
gate, or in reduced impact strength.
Change of materials
If the process is going to switch among different thermoplastics, it is
recommended to flush the cylinder with a suitable cleaning compound.
Ultraclean Batch is the right choice here since it has been specially
developed for this purpose. The residues from the preceding product
can be removed while they are still warm after the screw has been dismantled, or else they are easy to clear away using a steel brush. Other
residues should be removed by means of blasting with glass-beads
(diameter of approximately 10 m).
Self-coloring
Self-coloring of Ultramid by the converter is generally possible. In the
case of Ultramid T, however, which is usually processed at temperatures in excess of 310C, we advise against self-coloring due to its
limited thermostability.
The properties of parts made from in-plant colored pellets, especially
homogeneity, impact strength, fire and shrinkage characteristics, have
to be checked carefully because they can be dramatically altered by
the additives and the processing conditions in question.
In the case of three-section screws homogeneity can be improved

by raising the back pressure. This measure, however, simultaneously
increases the dissipation and hence the heat exposure of the melt. In
addition the output rate may drop. The mixing action of the three-section screw is basically limited and for that reason in some exceptions it
may be necessary to use screws having shearing and/or mixing parts.
Barrier screws are equipped as standard with shearing and/or mixing
parts and are therefore suitable for in-line coloring (see Plasticizing
unit).
Ultramid grades that are UL94-rated must adhere to the stipulations
of UL 746D if the UL rating is to be retained. Only PA-based color
batches that are HB-rated or higher may be used for the self-coloring
of UL 94 HB-rated Ultramid grades. Ultramid grades that are
UL 94 V-2, V-1 or V-0 rated may only be dyed with UL-approved
color batches (special approval required).
If self-colored parts are used in food applications special provisions
have to be observed (see Food legislation).
Reprocessing and recovering of scrap

Ground sprue waste, reject parts and the like from the processing
of Ultramid can be reused in limited amounts (up to about 10%). They
must not be dirty or have been damaged in the prior processing. In
ground form Ultramid is particularly sensitive to moisture. Even when
the ground material has been stored in dry conditions it is advisable to
dry it before processing. Moisture can give rise to molecular degradation during processing. For drying conditions see General notes on
processing.
Electric power steering with plastic worm wheel
1.6
1.4
1.2
Temperature
A3EG6 110 C
A3EG6 80 C
B3S
110C
B3S
80 C
1.0
0.8
The addition of ground material to the original pellets can result in

changes in feed and flow properties, ease of demolding and shrinkage
behavior and especially may change mechanical properties.
Scrap produced in extrusion is generally not used again. The processing technique, machines and dies should be carefully checked, monitored and maintained so that at worst waste is produced only on startup and shutdown of the installation.
0.6
0.4
0.2
0.1
0
10
15
20
25
30
Drying time [h]
Fig. 33: Moisture content of Ultramid pellets as a function of drying

time (measurement of moisture content in accordance with ISO 960)
33
Injection molding
Injection molding is the most important method for processing
Ultramid. Ultramid can be processed on all commercial injectionmolding machines provided that the plasticizing unit has been
correctly designed.
Selected Ultramid grades are suitable for the following special proces
sing methods:
Gas-assisted injection molding (GAM)
This method which is known by different names affords designers new
possibilities in relation to the reduction of wall thicknesses and weight
as well as optimization of strength. In most applications additional
degrees of freedom in the design of moldings and in simpler mold construction are at the fore.
In principle both unreinforced and reinforced Ultramid grades can
be processed by this method. Numerous applications from the most
varied fields can already be implemented. However, special features
with reference to conventional injection molding, such as e.g. shrinkage, warpage, gate design, gas injection, distribution of wall thicknesses, etc., should be clarified as early as possible.
Injection molding with the water-injection technique (WIT)
This method employs water as the channel-forming medium. The design
possibilities in terms of reducing the wall thickness and the weight as
well as optimizing the strength are analogous to those of the internal gas
pressure technique. Owing to the better cooling effect of water, the cycle
time can be reduced in comparison to the internal gas pressure method.
The water-injection technique can be employed to process reinforced
as well as unreinforced grades of Ultramid. The areas of application
are components such as handles, housings or media-carrying lines.
Special factors such as the water feed and discharge, the gate design,
the wall-thickness distribution, etc. all have to be taken into account.
Plasticizing unit
Three-section screws
The single-flighted three-section screws usual for other engineering
thermoplastics are also suitable for the injection molding of Ultramid.
In modern machines the effective screw length is 18-23 D and the
pitch 1.0 D or in rare cases 0.8 D. The geometry of the three-section
screw which has long proved effective is shown in Fig. 34.
34
The feed behavior is substantially determined by the temperatures in

the region of the hopper and by the flight depth in the feed section.
Apart from the control of the cylinder temperature the dissipation is
decisive for plastication. Recommended flight depths are shown in
Fig. 35. These flight depths apply to standard and more shallow-flighted screws and afford a compression ratio of 1 to 2. When using shallow-flighted screws the output rate is lower than in the aforesaid standard designs, but in practice this is usually of secondary importance.
Shallow-flighted screws convey less material than deep-flighted ones.
The residence time of the melt in the cylinder is therefore shorter. This
means that more gentle plasticization of the pellets and greater homogeneity of the melt are achieved. This is an advantage for the quality of
injection-molded parts made from Ultramid.
Barrier screws
The characteristic feature of a barrier screw is the division of the screw
channel into a channel for solid and a channel for melt which are
separated by a barrier wall. The barrier wall has a greater gap width
than the main divider and this has the effect that only fused material
and particles smaller than the barrier wall can get into the melt channel. When the solids channel overflows into the melt channel the melt
is exposed to additional shear stress. Since unfused material can be
present at the end of the solids channel, barrier screws require shearing and/or mixing parts in order to ensure adequate homogeneity.
When the back pressure is low and metering strokes are short the
barrier screw can exhibit advantages over the three-section screw.
At higher back pressures the throughput rate drops markedly. Longer
metering strokes can result in partial filling of the melt channel with
solid if the remaining length of feed section is too short.
Due to the additional shear stress in the barrier wall together with
shearing and mixing parts the barrier screw is not recommended
for fiber reinforced and/or flame-retardant Ultramid grades.
Vented screws
Flame-retardant Ultramid grades should not be processed in vented
screws. Although vented machines may be used for the other Ultramid
grades they are not necessary as the pellets are shipped dry and ready
to use. The drying of pellets and ground material in vented machines
is not recommended because it results in molecular degradation and
hence in poorer quality of the finished parts, especially in the case of
heat-sensitive products.
D hA
LA
Flight depth h [mm]
hE
LK
LE
12
hE = flight depth in the feed section

hA = flight depth in the
metering section
10
Standard screw
Shallow screw
8
L
6
D
L
LE
LK
LA
hA
hE
S
R
outer diameter of the screw

effective screw length
length of the feed section
length of the compression section
length of the metering section
flight depth in the metering section
flight depth in the feed section
pitch
non-return valve
18- 23
0.5-0.55
0.25-0.3
0.2
D
L
L
L
0.8-1.0
Fig. 34: Screw geometryTerms and dimensions for threesection screws for injection-molding machines
4
2
hE
hA
30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130

Screw diameter- D [mm]
Fig. 35: Screw flight depths for three-section screws in injectionmolding machines
Screw tip, non-return valve

The design of the screw tip and the non-return valve are vital for the
trouble-free flow of the melt into the plasticizing unit. This prevents the
melt from flowing backwards during injection and holding.
Stable melt cushions and long holding pressure times can only be
achieved with non-return valves.
Cylinder bore D
Clearance (approx. 0.02 mm) Check ring Thrust ring

hA*
30
to
60
Screw tip
The clearance between cylinder and non-return valve should not be

greater than 0.02 mm (Fig. 36).
A*
15
H* 30
* Flow cross-sections in these areas must be approximately the same
Fig. 36: Non-return valve
The flow cross-sections in the various sections (A, hA and H) should be

of the same size, as shown in Fig. 36, in order to prevent return flow of
the melt. It is recommended that the screw tip be designed (angle C in
Fig. 36) in such a way that as little melt as possible can collect in the
head of the cylinder or in the nozzle.
Temperature sensor
C*
* 30 to 60
Fig. 37: Open nozzle with temperature sensor
35
Machine nozzle
Open nozzles are preferred to shut-off nozzles because of their streamlined design and uniform heat transfer. This makes them advantageous
in particular when changing from one color to another. The angle of
the transition in the nozzle from the barrel to nozzle bore should correspond to the screw-tip angle.
To prevent the melt from escaping during the plasticizing phase, the
nozzle should be right up against the mold. Afterwards, the screw is
retracted by about 5 to 10 mm to depressurize the nozzle and the
injection unit is pulled back from the mold. Cooling the nozzle is also
conceivable to prevent the escape of melt. However, the melt must not
be allowed to freeze. With glass-reinforced grades, for example, cold
slugs are easily formed in the forward part of the nozzle, leading to
poor quality moldings.
If the plasticizing unit is vertical and/or the melt viscosity is low, often
nothing will prevent the escape of molten polymer from the nozzle.
In such cases, shut-off nozzles are preferred to ensure uninterrupted
production. These nozzles also prevent the melt from coming into contact with oxygen in the tip of the nozzle while the injection unit is being
pulled back from the mold. Needle shut-off nozzles must be designed
to ensure smooth and even flow. An example is shown in Figure 38.
Stoppages should be avoided if a shut-off nozzle is installed, since
each additional heat-up phase exposes thermally sensitive materials to
unnecessary thermal loading. This is especially true of Ultramid flameretardant grades. It is much more difficult to purge thermally degraded
material from a shut-off nozzle than from an open nozzle.
Frozen melt can be extracted more easily and cleanly from a shut-off
nozzle than from an open nozzle. It is important that the plug of frozen
material is completely removed from the nozzle orifice to avoid solid
material entering the cavity with the next shot, where it could exert a
notch effect or cause streaks or a flaw in the molding. The nozzle orifice must be conical to ensure troublefree extraction of the frozen plug
(angle b in Figure 39).
Shut-off nozzles also enable the plasticizing unit to operate with a back
pressure when it is retracted, resulting in better melt homogenization.
This advantage should not be ignored when it comes to self-coloring.
36
Protection against abrasion and wear

Plasticizing units with hard-wearing components, for example bimetal
barrels and hardened screws, screw tips and non-return valves, are
recommended for use with glass-reinforced Ultramid, as is the case
with most other glass-reinforced thermoplastics.
Injection mold
Mold design
The mold design guidelines specified by VDI 2006 also apply to
Ultramid grades.
The low melt viscosity of the unreinforced grades means that features
on the mold surfaces are reproduced extremely accurately on the
molded part; these surfaces must therefore be produced with the same
degree of precision as is required on the subsequent part.
With the glass-reinforced grades, glass fiber content may cause the
surface of the molded part to be of a somewhat duller appearance
(glass fiber effect). This effect can be compensated by injecting at high
speed and at the same time increasing the temperature of the mold
(for example to 80-120C).
Draft and ejectors
As a rule, the draft on injection molds for Ultramid grades is 1 to 2.
With drafts of a lower angle there is a great increase in the demolding
forces, making the ejector system an even more important consideration. For long and thin cores, high-strength steels should be used.
To reduce demolding forces, it may be helpful to use surface coatings
such as TiN, or CrN when processing A3X2G grades, and/or to make
the surfaces smoother. The contact area of the ejector pins or stripper
plates should be as large as possible to prevent the part being punctured or deformed during demolding. This particularly applies to moldings with undercuts and/or low-angle drafts, which require higher
demolding forces. In some cases, large-area ejectors permit earlier
demolding and thus shorten the cycle time.
Types of gating
In principle, all kinds of conventional gating, including hot runner systems, can be used for Ultramid. Problems may arise with self-insulating hot runner and ante-chamber systems, because of the risk of the
melt freezing even during relatively short interruptions.
The feed system (runners and gates) must have large enough cross
sections to avoid having to operate at unnecessarily high melt temperatures and pressures, and thus run the risk of streaks and burn
marks on the surfaces of the molding. Premature freezing of the melt
in the gate area will cause voids and sink marks because the holding
pressure will be insufficient to compensate for volumetric shrinkage in
the mold cavity.
In the case of fiber-reinforced grades, increased wear occurs in the
gate area at relatively high output rates; this can be countered by
selecting suitable types of steel and the use of interchangeable mold
inserts.
Mold venting
With Ultramid, and the flame-retardant grades in particular, venting at
the end of the flow path or at places where flow fronts meet is important. Slits of 0.015 to 0.02 mm should be machined to a length of 2 to
3 mm and then widened to about 1 mm before running out into the
open (cf. Figure 40). In the case of free-flowing products, such as B3S
for example, the slits must be made thinner in order to avoid flash. The
optimum slit thickness depends on the mold and should be determined
in processing tests, beginning at 0.005 mm.
Temperature sensor
Needle shut-off
Spring
Fig. 38: Spring-loaded needle shut-off nozzle (plastic-service,

Mannheim)
Machine nozzle (cutout)

R 3 = 15.5 (example)
D 1 = D 3 + (0.5 to 1)mm
R 1 = R 3 + (0.5 to 1)mm
1
R3
D1
Sprue brush
S = wall thickness of molded part
D3
R1
D 2 = s + 1.5 mm (rule of thumb)

D 2 = (1.1 to 1.5) x s
(based on cooling time equation)
R 2 = 1 to 2mm
1
R2
D2
Molded part
Corrosion-resistant high-alloy steels (for example X42Cr13, DIN 1.2083)

have proven suitable for A3X2G grades.
Fig. 39: Screw gate dimensioning
Parting plane
0.015 + 0.005
Mold cavity
2
3
2 5 mm
Bore
Fig. 40: Design diagram for mold venting
37
Use of inserts
Metal inserts can be encapsulated without any trouble. In the case of
large sizes, however, they should be preheated to 100C to 150C or
at least to the mold temperature so that no excessive internal stresses
occur in the molding. The metal parts must be degreased and should
be knurled, grooved or similar to provide better anchorage. In addition
the edges of the inserts should be well rounded.
Processing by injection molding
Mold temperature control channels and devices

The quality of moldings is very highly dependent on the temperature
conditions in the mold. Precise mold temperature control is possible
only with a suitably designed system of temperature control channels
in the mold together with temperature control devices of appropriate
power. Frequently the two halves of the mold or certain parts of the
mold must be maintained at different temperatures in order to achieve
a uniform distribution of temperature or to counteract warpage in the
moldings. The temperature control channels should therefore be laid
out in as many separate circuits as possible some of which can be
connected in series.
The correct melt temperature within the specified ranges is dependent

on the length of melt flow path and the thickness of the walls of the
molding. Higher melt temperatures should be avoided due to the possibility of heat damage to the melt. Slight increases (+10C) are only
permissible for extremely short production cycles or residence times of
the melt in the cylinder (< 2 minutes).
The mold temperatures required for Ultramid can be achieved with

temperature control devices using water. Temperatures of up to 150C
can also be attained with special devices (closed systems).
Heating
Temperature
control
Hopper
flat
280
285 285 285 285 80C
Ultramid A
(Ultramid B
risin g
about 20C lower )
285 290 285 280 275 270 80C

Temperature
control
flat
335 340 340 340 340 340 80C

risin g
340 340 330 320 310 300 80C
Fig. 41: Examples of cylinder temperature control
38
Ultramid T
Processing temperatures and residence times

Melt temperatures
The melt temperature ranges listed in Table 6 for the various Ultramid
grades are recommended. Tables 7 and 8 with examples of processing
by injection molding provide further details.
Continuous measurement of the melt temperature is recommended,

for example by means of a thermocouple installed in the region of the
nozzle (see Figs. 40 and 41).
Mold temperatures
Unreinforced Ultramid is processed as a rule at mold temperatures of
40C to 60C. Reinforced Ultramid grades require higher temperatures. To achieve good surface qualities and moldings meeting high
requirements for hardness and strength the mold wall temperatures
should be 80C to 90C, and in special cases 120C to 140C (see
also Table 6). A good temperature control system coupled with the correct temperature in the mold is the prerequisite for high-quality injection-molded parts. The mold surface temperature affects the degree
of crystallization, the surface quality, shrinkage, warpage, dimensional
tolerances and the level of internal stresses.
Cylinder temperatures
When the melt has a long residence time in the cylinder gentle fusion
is achieved by setting the temperatures of the cylinder heater bands
so that they rise from the charging hopper towards the nozzle. In the
case of short residence times flat temperature control on the cylinder
can also be appropriate (see Fig. 41 for examples). Barrier screws may
require that the temperature profile falls from the charging hopper
towards the nozzle.
The nozzle must be provided with at least one heater band with a heating power of 200 to 300 W because high heat losses due to radiation
and conduction to the injection mold can occur and this in turn gives
rise to the risk of the melt solidifying in the nozzle. It is recommended
that the control of the heating bands be monitored. By giving early
warning, e.g. of the failure of a heater band on the cylinder, this can
provide protection against screw fracture. Feed behavior can often be
improved by means of temperature control (approx. 80C) in the region
of the hopper.
Residence time in the cylinder

The residence time of the plastic in the plasticizing cylinder is a major
factor determining the quality of the molding. Residence times which
are too short can result in thermal inhomogeneity in the melt whereas
if they are too long (>10 min) they often produce heat damage. This
in turn results in a loss in impact strength which is sometimes visible
from discoloration, dark stripes or burnt particles of product on the
injection-moldings.
Table 6: Typical values for the process temperature and molding shrinkage of injection-molded Ultramid
Ultramid grade
Melt temperature
range
[C]
TW range
[C]
Molding shrinkage [%]

Melt temp.
TW
[C]
[C]
A3K, A3W
280-300
40-60
290
60
0.85
1.35
1.45
B3S
250-270
40-60
260
60
0.55
0.6
0.75
B3L
250-270
40-60
260
60
0.65
0.9
1.15
C3U
250-270
40-60
270
60
0.80
1.0
0.9
A3HG5, A3EG5, A3WG5
280-300
80-90
290
80
0.55
0.45
1.1
A3X2G5
280-300
80-90
290
80
0.5
0.4
1.1
A3EG6, A3WG6
280-300
80-90
290
80
0.55
0.35
0.95
A3EG7, A3HG7, A3WG7
280-300
80-90
290
80
0.5
0.35
0.9
A3X2G7
280-300
80-90
290
80
0.45
0.3
0.9
Test box1)
Sheet s = 2 mm2)
lengthwise lengthwise crosswise
A3EG10, A3WG10
290-310
80-90
300
80
0.45
0.3
0.8
A3UG5
280-300
80-90
290
80
0.35
0.4
1.2
A3X2G10
280-300
80-90
290
80
0.4
0.3
0.9
B3ZG3
270-290
80-90
280
80
0.5
0.45
0.65
B3WG5
270-290
80-90
280
80
0.35
0.25
0.7
B3EG6, B3WG6
270-290
80-90
280
80
0.4
0.25
0.7
B3ZG6
270-290
80-90
280
80
0.4
0.3
0.7
B3WG7
270-290
80-90
280
80
0.35
0.2
0.7
B35EG3
270-290
80-90
280
80
0.55
0.4
0.7
B3WGM24
270-290
80-90
280
80
0.4
0.3
0.6
B3M6
270-290
80-90
270
80
0.75
0.8
0.85
T KR 4350
310-340
70-90
330
80
0.65
0.95
1.4
T KR 4355 G5
320-350
90-110
330
80
0.4
0.27
0.75
T KR 4357 G6
320-350
90-110
330
80
0.4
0.26
0.7
T KR 4355 G7
320-350
90-110
330
80
0.35
0.25
0.78
310-330
90-110
310
80
0.4
0.31
0.76
T KR 4365 G5
Sheet: pN=500bar
TK (Test box): pN=800bar
TW=mold temperature
1)
impeded shrinkage
2)
free shrinkage
39
Feeding
With the screw designs described, Ultramid can be uniformly plasticized. However, the melting and feeding characteristics of the granules
depend not only on the screw design but also on the temperature control of the barrel, the screw speed and the back pressure.
If premature melting of the granules is to be avoided, it is important
that the temperature in the feed section (hopper zone HZ1) is not set
too high. This could cause bridge formation (clogged screw flights),
something which may occur if the processing temperatures and dwell
times of the melt are very high.
Screw speed
If possible, the screw speed should be set so as to fully utilize the time
available for plasticizing within the molding cycle. For instance,
a speed of 60 to 100 rpm (corresponding to a peripheral screw speed
of 200 to 300 mm/s) is often adequate for a 50 mm diameter screw.
Low screw speeds allow temperature rises due to frictional heating
to be kept within acceptable limits.
On account of the relatively high torque, however, very low speeds
may cause problems in the screw drive. If operating with long cycle
times, plasticizing should be commenced shortly before the beginning
of injection. This avoids melt staying for too long in the space in front
of the screw; this is particularly important when processing at high
temperatures.
Dwell time factor
In a specific test, the dwell time can be determined by adding granules

of a different color. When processing Ultramid grades of a light color,
just a few dark-colored particles are sufficient for this. The dwell time
is then the product of the cycle time and the number of cycles required
before differences in color are evident on the molding. It is not possible
to estimate the dwell time on the basis of the theoretically possible
injection volume. Figure 42 shows that the dwell time decreases with
increasing metering stroke (assuming a constant metering volume and
constant injection cycle); this dependence becomes less strong once
metering strokes exceed 3D. In practice this means that the dwell time
can often be reduced by using a smaller plasticizing unit. However,
metering strokes > 3D may have the effect that the remaining effective
screw length is too short, increasing the risk of air being drawn in and
melt inhomogeneities (unmelted granules). Experience shows that a
plasticizing stroke between 1 and 3D produces optimum injection
processes.
3
2.5
2
1.5
1
0.5
Back pressure
Back pressure is often used in practice to maintain a constant plasticizing time, to avoid entrapped air, or to improve the homogenization of
the melt. It is not absolutely essential for processing pre-colored
Ultramid grades. An excessively high back pressure can cause the
melt temperature to increase and lead to greater polymer degradation
as well as a reduction in the average fiber length of fiber-reinforced
products.
40
Long
dwell time
Recommended
range
Low remaining
screw length
Metering stroke as a multiple of screw diameter
Fig. 42: Dwell time as a function of metering stroke
Table7: Injection-molding examples

Ultramid
Description of molding
B3S
B3EG7
A3K
A3EG7
Wall plug
Power tool
housing
Terminal block
for electric
switches
Housing for
domestic
appliance
A3X2G5
A3HG6HR
B3M6
Lowerpart of
Automobile
Wheel cover
contactor
radiator header
tank
TKR4355G5
Housing
Dimensions of molding
mm
32 cavity
8 x; 40
170x170x35
2 cavities
55x35x8
270x180x170
78x55x40
2 cavities
322x55x
65/38
400 x
107x47x1.5
Total/individual weight
4.3/1.3
436/200
20/8
960
94/45
190
300
39
0.93.5
1.2-6.5
1.3-2.5
3.5-7.5
0.8-2.2
2.4-4.0
2.2-2.6
1.5-4
345
150
90
sprue 5 x,
l = 35;
tunnel 1.0 x
sprue
4.8-9.4 x,
l = 81;
film
30 x 1.0
hot canal;
sprue
6-12 x
sprue
3-6 x
Wall thickness
mm
Length of flowpath
mm
40
230
55
360
Type/size of gating
system
mm
sprue;
2 pin
gates
sprue;
runner
gate
5 x 2.5
gates
1.2 x
sprue
6-10 x,
l = 82
Machine data
Swept volume (max.)
cm
235
56
1630
186
380
820
38
Injection pressure
(max.)
bar
1236
1120
1500
1800
1600
1880
1200
Clamping force
kN
750
600
7000
1300
1750
7500
1200
Screw diameter
mm
45
32
95
42
52
60
40
275/280/285
285
Heater temperatures
hopper
nozzle
C
255/260
260
260/270/280
255/265/275
285
250/260/270
280
290/290/290 250/270/270 300/320/330

300
270
330
Melt temperature
265
290
285
285
290
288
275
330
Mold temperature
60
80
70
90
40/90
68/40
80
80
60
22.5
110
35
58
38
28
Cycle time
Injection time
0.7
1.5
1.6
1.2
1.9
4.3
0.3
Holding time
2.2
12
4.0
18
10
8.0
10
Cooling time
2.2
12
60
20
30
20
18
Plastification time
1.8
21
9.5
6.5
Injection pressure
bar
480
980
800
1100
660
640
865
755
Holding pressure
bar
400
700
640
300
820
280
675
800
Back pressure
210
60
70
55
5.0
U/min
260
80
60
70
100
100
80
100
kg/h
26
3.2
31.5
9.7
28
Length of diameter
0.4-0.5
1.3
0.5
0.3-0.6
0.2-0.26
0.75-0.85
0.4
width
0.25
0.6
Screw speed
bar
Output
Processing shrinkage VS
41
Mold filling
The speed at which the mold is filled affects the quality of the moldings. Rapid injection favors uniform solidification and the quality of the
surface, especially in the case of parts made from glass-fiber reinforced Ultramid grades.
In the case of moldings with very thick walls a reduced injection rate
can be appropriate depending on the gate type and position in order to
achieve laminar flow rather than jetting. When the melt is injected the
air in the mold cavity must be able to escape at suitable points
so that scorch marks from compressed air are not produced (Diesel
effect, see Mold venting).
Spiral length [mm]
In order to prevent sink marks and voids when material accumulates

the holding pressure and the holding time must be selected in such
a way that contractions in volume when the melt cools are compensated. The precondition for this is that the gate is sufficiently large
so that in this region the melt does not solidify before the end of the
holding pressure time and as a result prevents the holding pressure
from acting on the still plastic molding in the interior.
500 1 = B3EG6
2 = A3K
450 3 = A3EG6
4 = B3M6
400 5 = A3X2G5
350
Flow characteristics
The mold filling is always a function of the flow behavior of the melt.
The flow behavior at a given temperature can be evaluated with a spiral mold on a commercially available injection-molding machine. In this
mold, the distance traveled by the melt serves as the measure of the
flow behavior.
The spiral flow lengths for some Ultramid grades are presented in
Fig. 43. The maximum injection pressure in all cases was 1.000 bar
and the mold surface temperature was 60C or 80C. In this test the
spiral flow length achieved serves (depending on the spiral height) as
a measure of the flow characteristics of a thermoplastic. From this the
ratio of flow path to wall thick-ness is obtained. Thinner spirals yield
smaller flow path to wall thickness ratios. These ratios (i) are given in
Table 8 for spirals 1.5 and 2.0 mm thick. They have only limited application to actual moldings.
Apart from the flow properties of the plastic other factors which have
a substantial effect on the ratio of the flow path to the wall thickness
include the processing conditions, the injection capacity of the injection-molding machine and the wall thickness of the molding. A further
method for evaluating flow characteristics is to find that pressure
(injection pressure) which just fills the mold while the temperatures
of the mold and the melt are kept constant.
(TW 80C)
(TW 80C)
(TW 80C)
(TW 60C)
(TW 80C)
(TW 80C)
(TW 80C)
(TW 80C)
(TW 80C)
1
2
3
250
4
6
5
7
200
6 = T KR 4350
8
7 = T KR 4355 G5
150
8 = T KR 4355 G7
9
9 = T KR 4357 G6
100
240 250 260 270 280 290 300 310 320 330 340 350
300
Melt temperature [C]

Housing for exterior mirror
Fig. 43: Spiral flow length as a function of melt temperature;

spiral thickness=1.5 mm
42
Plug-in connector
Table 8: Flow characteristic of Ultramid during injection molding:

spiral length and flow path/wall thickness ratio (i)
Product
Temperature
Flow characteristics
Ultramid
Spiral length/Spiral thickness
TM
TW
[C]
[C]
[mm]
[i]
[mm]
[i]
[mm]
[i]
B3S
270
60
230
(230)
430
(285)
630
(315)
A3K
300
60
250
(250)
415
(275)
615
(310)
C3U
270
60
285
(285)
505
(235)
775
(390)
B3EG3
290
80
260
(260)
515
(345)
650
(325)
B3EG6
290
80
190
(190)
405
(270)
530
(265)
B3WGM24
280
80
210
(210)
320
(215)
490
(245)
B3ZG6
290
80
180
(180)
325
(215)
450
(225)
B3M6
290
80
170
(170)
335
(225)
440
(220)
A3EG5
300
80
280
(280)
465
(310)
620
(310)
A3EG6
300
80
270
(270)
450
(300)
580
(290)
A3WGM53
300
80
280
(280)
440
(295)
520
(260)
A3X2G5
300
80
180
(180)
290
(195)
460
(230)
A3EG10
310
80
300
(300)
500
(335)
590
(295)
T KR 4350
340
80
450
(300)
545
(270)
T KR 4355 G5
350
80
505
(335)
600
(300)
T KR 4357 G6
350
80
370
(245)
440
(220)
T KR 4355 G7
350
80
455
(300)
570
(285)
TM = Melt temperature
TW = Mold surface temperature
1mm
1.5mm
2.0mm
43
In principle the injection pressure for a thermoplastic can be determined in this way using almost any mold. Of course the rheological
values found can only be compared with one another under the same
processing conditions and using the same type of mold and machinery.
Fig. 44 shows a rectangular box which was used to determine the
flow characteristics of some Ultramid grades by this method. Further
details are presented in Fig. 45.
Demolding
Moldings made from Ultramid can be readily demolded. In injectionmolding Ultramid has no tendency to stick to contour-forming walls
even in the case of hot molds.
Fig. 44: Test box
Injection pressure [bar]
Shrinkage and aftershrinkage

ISO 294-4 defines the terms and test methods for shrinkage in processing. According to this, shrinkage is defined as the difference in
the dimensions of the mold and those of the injection-molded part at
room temperature. It results from the volumetric contraction of the
molding compound in the injection mold due to cooling, change in the
state of aggregation and crystallization. It is also determined by the
geometry (free or impeded shrinkage, Fig. 46) and the wall thickness
of the molding. In addition the position and size of the gate and the
processing parameters (melt and mold temperature, holding pressure
and holding pressure time) together with the storage time and storage
temperature play a decisive role. The interaction of these various factors makes exact prediction of shrinkage difficult.
T KR 4357 G6
1000
T KR 4355 G7
800
T KR 4355 G5
B3EG6
A3WG10
600
A3EG7
400
However, a prediction of the expected shrinkage as accurate as possible is important, especially for the mold maker. The mold dimensions
have to be designed in such a way that moldings having the desired
external dimensions are subsequently produced.
A 107 mm
B 47 mm
C 40 mm
D 60 mm
E 120 mm
200
B3L
B3S
A3EG6
A3EG5
T KR 4350
A3K, A3W
The free and impeded shrinkage (measured parallel and transverse

to the melt flow direction) for some Ultramid grades is shown in
Fig. 46. These shrinkage values determined under the same processing conditions reveal that relatively large differences between longitudinal and transverse shrinkage occur among the glass-fiber reinforced
products. Dimensional requirements can usually be met by selective
modification of the following variables. However, in order to adhere
to narrower size tolerances it is essential to take aftershrinkage into
account (see the section Dimensional changes resulting from of aftershrinkage).
44
220 240
260 280
260 280 300 320 340

Fig. 45: Flowability of Ultramid grades in injection-molding; injection

pressure as a function of melt temperature in the production of test
boxes. Test conditions as in Fig. 48 but with a mold surface temperature of 80C. Unreinforced Ultramid: TW=60C; Reinforced Ultramid:
TW=80C
T M [C] T W [C]
B3EG3
280
80
B3EG6
280
80
B3WGM24
280
80
A3K
290
60
A3EG6
290
80
A3WG10
300
80
T KR 4350
330
80
T KR 4355 G5
330
80
T KR 4355 G7
330
80
T KR 4365 G5
310
80
1.5
1
0.5
0
Impeded shrinkage [%]
to the melt flow direction
0
0.5
1
1.5
Free shrinkage [%]
transverse
parallel
Fig. 46: Free and impeded shrinkage of Ultramid; sheet measuring 110 x 110 x 2 mm with film gate, holding pressure 500 bar, measured after storage for 1 h at 23C
Fuse box, Tyco Electronics
45
Effect of holding pressure

The holding pressure and the holding time should as far as possible
compensate for the volumetric contraction occurring on solidification
and subsequent cooling. Polyamides undergo considerable thermal
contraction (see Fig. 30, PVT diagrams).
Shrinkage [%]
1.3
1.2
T M 290 C/T W 60 C
1.1
1.0
Thus selective changes in holding pressure are a particularly effective means for size correction (see Figs. 47 and 48). In many cases
it is useful to drop the holding pressure in stepwise manner in order
to avoid excessive internal stresses. For the same reason the holding pressure time should be limited in such a way that it is just long
enough to prevent sink marks.
0.9
0.8
0.6
A3K
0.5
0.4
Effect of mold temperature

In this case the mold temperature is the mold surface temperature.
As is evident from Figs. 49 and 50, shrinkage increases rapidly as
the mold temperature rises. Dimensions can often be kept within the
required tolerances by optimizing the mold temperature.
0.3
T M 290C/T W 80 C
A3X2G5
A3EG6
T M 290 C/T W 80 C
B3EG6
0.2
300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000 1100 1200 1300
Holding pressure pN [bar]
Fig. 47: Shrinkage of Ultramid A and B as a function of holding

pressure (test box, 1.5 mm thick)
Longitudinal shrinkage [%]
Effect of melt temperature and injection rate

The melt temperature and injection rate exercise only a small effect
on shrinkage. Shrinkage increases slightly as the melt temperature
(Figs. 51 and 52) rises and the injection rate falls.
T M 290 C/T W 80 C
0.7
0.9
T KR 4350 (T M = 340C)
0.7 T KR 4350
(T M = 320C)
T KR 4357 G6 (T M = 340C)
0.5
0.3
T KR 4355 G7 (T M = 340C)
0.1
600
800
1000
1200
Holding pressure pN [bar]
Fig. 48: Shrinkage of Ultramid T as a function of holding pressure

(test box, 1.5 mm thick; TW=80C)
46
Shrinkage [%]
Shrinkage [%]
storage 1 h/ 23 C
annealing 20 min/160 C/oil
1.5
1.4
1.3
T M 290 C
1.2
1.1
1.0
A3K
TW 60 C
0.9
0.8
A3K
1.0
1.1
B3M6
TW 80 C
A3X2G5
TW 80 C
A3EG6
TW 80 C
0.7
0.9
0.6
0.8
0.7
A3EG6
A3X2G5
A3EG6
B3EG6
B3EG6
T M 290 C
0.6
0.5
T M 290 C
T M 290 C
0.4
0.3
0.2
30 40 50 60 70 80
0.5
0.4
B3EG6
TW 80 C
0.3
0.2
240 250
90 100 110 120 130
260
270 280
290 300
310
320
Melt temperature TM [C]
Fig. 49: Shrinkage of Ultramid A and B as a function of mold surface

temperature and annealing (test box, 1.5 mm thick)
Fig. 51: Shrinkage of Ultramid A and B as a function of melt

temperature (test box, 1.5 mm thick)
Mold surface temperature TW [C]
1.3
T KR 4350
1.1
storage 1h/23 C
annealing 24h/
100C /air
0.9
0.7
0.9
0.7
0.5
T KR 4357 G6
T KR 4350
T KR 4357 G6
T KR 4355 G5
0.5
0.3
T KR 4355 G7
0.3
0.1
0.1
60
80
100
120
Mold surface temperature [C]
Fig. 50: Shrinkage of Ultramid T as a function of mold surface

temperature and annealing (test box, 1.5 mm thick; holding
pressure=800 bar; TM=340C)
310
330
350
Fig. 52: Shrinkage of Ultramid T as a function of melt temperature

(test box, 1.5 mm thick; holding pressure=800 bar; TW=80C)
47
A3K
A3K II
T
1.5
A3EG6
B3EG3
B3EG6
T
T
Effect of wall thickness

Moldings with thick walls shrink more extensively than those with thin
walls (see Figs. 53 to 56). In the case of moldings with highly variable
wall thicknesses it is difficult to predict an exact value for shrinkage.
In such cases, therefore, a mean wall thickness is taken as the starting point. Variable shrinkage due to differences in wall thickness are
frequently the cause of warpage of the molding. Remedies include
modification to the design of the part and seperate temperature control
circuits in the different parts of the mold.
Shrinkage [%]
A3EG6 II
0.5
B3EG3 II
B3EG6 II
0
0.5
1.5
2.5
4.5
3.5
Thickness [mm]
Shrinkage [%]
Effect of gate position and type

The effect of the holding pressure decreases with distance from the
gate. Regions close to the gate shrink less than those remote from
the gate. This is especially the case in relatively large and complicated
moldings. The position of the gate determines the melt flow direction
and also the orientation of the glass-fibers in the case of the glassfiber reinforced grades. As a result of the high degree of orientation as
the glass fiber content increases, sheet injected via a film gate exhibits
pronounced anisotropy of shrinkage (relative low longitudinal shrinkage
in comparison with transverse shrinkage). On the other hand in the
case of test boxes filled via a central sprue gate a mixed orientation
becomes established. Thus shrinkage of the test box lies between the
extreme values for longitudinal and transverse shrinkage found for the
sheet produced using a film gate (see Figs. 53 to 56).
1.5
T KR 4350
T KR 4350 II
Ultramid can be processed with all types of gates. Since it flows easily,
the pin gates and tunnel gates can be kept relatively small. It should be
taken into consideration here that the maximum effective holding pressure time drops as the gate cross section decreases. This can increase
the shrinkage, which is why a sprue gate is recommended for molded
parts having thick walls.
48
0
0.5
T KR 4355 G5 II
T KR 4357 G6 II
T KR 4355 G7 II
1.5
2.5
3.5
4.5
Thickness [mm]
Figs. 53 (top), 54 (bottom): Impeded shrinkage of diverse

Ultramid grades as a function of wall thickness (sheet measuring
110 x 110 mm made using a film gate; pN=500 bar; means perpendicular and ll means parallel to the melt flow direction)
T
While aftershrinkage is relatively small at room temperature it can give

rise to potentially significant changes in dimensions at higher temperatures. The process of aftershrinkage can be accelerated by annealing.
High mold temperatures reduce aftershrinkage and can, therefore, act
as a substitute for a subsequent annealing process (Figs. 49 and 50).
0.5
T
T
T
Dimensional changes resulting from aftershrinkage

The dimensions of moldings may change slightly over time as internal
stresses and alignments break down and as time- and temperaturedependent postcrystallization occurs.
T KR 4355 G5
T KR 4357 G6
T KR 4355 G7
Shrinkage [%]
Warpage
Warpage in a molding is mainly brought about by differences in shrinkage in the melt flow direction and in the direction transverse to it. In
addition it depends on the shape of the moldings, the distribution of
wall thicknesses and on the processing conditions.
A3K
1.5
In the case of unreinforced grades differential temperature control

of individual parts of the mold (core and cavity plate) can allow the
production of warp-free or low-warpage moldings. Thus for example
inward warping of housing walls can be counteracted by means of low
core and high cavity plate temperatures.
B3EG3
A3EG6
0.5 B3EG6
Due to its higher anisotropy of shrinkage glass-fiber reinforced

Ultramid has a more marked tendency towards warpage than unreinforced grades.
B3WGM24
0
Shrinkage [%]
Thickness [mm]
The mineral-filled grades are distinguished by largely isotropic shrinkage. They are therefore preferred materials for warp-free moldings.
T KR 4350
1.5
1
T KR 4357 G6
0.5
T KR 4355 G7
0
Thickness [mm]
Figs. 55 (top), 56 (bottom): Impeded shrinkage of Ultramid as a

function of the wall thickness of a test box (pN=600 bar)
Snowboard binding
49
Machining
Semi-finished parts made from Ultramid can be machined and cut
using all the usual machine tools. General rules which apply are that
cutting speed should be high while the rate of advancement is low and
care should be taken that tools are sharp.
Joining methods
Parts made from Ultramid can be joined at low cost by a variety of
methods. They can be easily joined using special screws suitable for
plastics which form their own threads (self-tapping screws). Ultramid
parts can be connected without difficulty to one another or to parts
made from other materials by means of rivets and bolts.
Threaded metal inserts have proved to be effective for screw connec
tions subjected to high stresses and which frequently have to be
loosened and retightened. These are encapsulated during molding or
attached subsequently in prepared holes by means of ultrasound or
hot embedding.
Snap-in and press-fit connections can also withstand high stresses.
Ultramids outstanding elasticity and strength, even at high temperatures, are particularly advantageous for this form of construction.
Practically all methods developed for welding thermoplastics are
suitable for Ultramid. The following welding methods are employed for
moldings:
Vibration welding (linear, biaxial)
Spin welding
Ultrasonic welding
Laser beam welding
Heating-element welding (thermal sealing, radiation welding)
All these methods have their own specific advantages and disadvantages (see Table 9). As a rule they require special joint geometries and
configurations adapted to the welding technique so that the welding
method should be chosen before the final design is drawn up.
50
Directions for design and choice of welding parameters can be found in

the corresponding guidelines of the DVS (Deutscher Verband fr Schwei
technik, Dsseldorf=German association for welding technology).
Heat impulse welding, and high-frequency welding in the case of suitable formulations, are preferably used for film. However, laser-beam,
heating-element and ultrasonic welding may also be used.
Adhesive solvents or varnishes are particularly suitable for bonding
Ultramid. These may be based for example on phenol or resorcinol
solutions, concentrated formic acid, solid adhesives with or without
chemical crosslinking (reactive or two-component adhesives), on
polymerizable, pressure-sensitive and contact adhesives.
Parts made from Ultramid grades can be bonded very securely to
rubber, e.g. after surface treatment.
Printing, embossing, laser marking, surface coating,

metallizing, surface coloring
Printing
Printing on Ultramid using conventional paper-printing methods
requires no pretreatment. Injection-molded parts should be largely
free of internal stresses and produced as far as possible without mold
release agents, particularly those containing silicone. Special tried and
tested inks are available for printing to Ultramid.
Hot embossing
Ultramid can be hot-embossed without difficulty using suitable
embossing foils.
Laser marking
Marking Ultramid using lasers affords a series of advantages with
respect to conventional methods, particularly when there are tough
requirements for permanence, flexibility and speed.
The following information is intended only to provide initial guidance.
The Ultra-Infopoint will be happy to give more detailed advice, on the
choice of Ultramid colors that are best suited to laser marking.
Table9: Advantages and disadvantages of welding methods

Method
Advantages
Disadvantages
Applications
vibration
relatively short cycle times; high strength
high welding pressure; stress caused by vibration;

grainy weld flash; wide seam
air intake manifolds,

containers, air ducts
rotation
relatively short cycle times; high strength
rotation-symmetrical seam necessary
containers, connection
pieces, covers, linear
sections, filter housings
ultrasound
short cycle times; possibility of integration

into production lines
high mechanical stress due to vibrations; possible

damage due to covibration
housings, devices, bearing

cages, filters
laser
flash-free, clean welding seam; stress-free

welding; design freedom
material adaptation conceivably necessary
housings, covers, filters,

medical devices
heating element high strength; smooth, contiguous flash

heat contact
long cycle time; adhesion of the melt to the heating containers

element; process only possible if the heating element is cleaned after each welding operation
heating element high strength; smooth, contiguous flash

radiation
long cycle time; only minor warpage permissible or

else compensation by mold necessary
Nd-YAG lasers (wavelength 1064 nm)

Uncolored standard Ultramid grades are practically impossible to mark
with Nd-YAG lasers due to very low absorption of energy. This also
applies to glass-fiber reinforced and mineral-filled grades. Better markability for Ultramid grades can be achieved by using special additives.
High-contrast lettering is obtained with certain black pigmentations.
Uncolored Ultramid A3X grades can be marked with good contrast but
not in customary black colors.
The Ultramid LS range comprising unreinforced, reinforced and flameproofed grades was specially developed for marking using the Nd-YAG
laser. The Ultra-Infopoint will be happy to send you an overview on
request.
Nd-YAG lasers (wavelength 532 nm)
A frequency-doubled Nd-YAG laser can generally produce higher definition and higher contrast images on uncolored and brightly colored
Ultramid grades than a Nd-YAG laser (1064 nm). There is no advantage in the case of black colors.
housings
Excimer lasers (wavelength 175-483 nm)

Excimer lasers produce a higher definition and a better surface finish
on Ultramid than do Nd-YAG devices. Good results are achieved especially for bright colors.
CO2 lasers (wavelength 10640 nm)
Uncolored and colored Ultramid is practically impossible to mark with
CO2 lasers. At best there is only barely perceptible engraving of the
surface without color change.
Surface coating
Due to its outstanding resistance to most solvents Ultramid can be
coated in one or more layers with various paints which adhere well and
have no adverse effects on mechanical properties. One- or two-component paints with binders matched to the substrate are suitable.
Metallizing
After proper pre-treatment, parts made of Ultramid can be metallized
galvanically or in a high vacuum.
51
Conditioning
Ultramid parts, especially those made from standard injection-molding grades, only achieve their optimum impact strength and constant
dimensions after absorption of moisture. Conditioning, i.e. immersion
in warm water or storage in warm, moist air is used for the rapid
attainment of a moisture content of 1.5 to 3%, the equilibrium content
in normal moist air (cf. Fig. 23, p. 23 and individual values in the
Ultramid range chart).
Practical conditioning method
Immersion in warm water at 40C to 90C is simple to carry out but
it can result in water stains, deposits and, especially in the case of
thin parts with internal stresses, in warpage. Additionally, in the case
of the reinforced grades the quality of the surface can be impaired.
Furthermore, conditioning of A3X grades in a waterbath at higher
temperatures is not recommended. Accordingly, preference is generally
given to the milder method of conditioning in humid air (e.g. at 40C
and 90% relative humidity or in 70/62 conditions for the accelerated
conditioning of test specimens in accordance with ISO 1110). Here too
the temperature should not exceed about 40C for parts made from
Ultramid A3X.
As a simple method of conditioning, parts can also be stored in the
warm in PE sacks containing 5 to 10% of water with respect to the
weight of the parts.
Duration of conditioning
The time required for conditioning to the normal moisture content
(standard conditions 23/50) increases with the square of the wall
thickness of the parts but decreases markedly with rising temperature.
Table 10 gives the conditioning times needed for flat parts (sheet)
made from Ultramid A and B grades as a function of wall thickness
and conditioning conditions in either a moist atmosphere or in a waterbath. Conditioning in a moist atmosphere, e.g. 40C/90% r.h., is
generally recommended as a mild thermal treatment.
Our Technical Information leaflet Conditioning Ultramid moldings
provides further details.
Annealing
Annealing, e.g. by heat treatment for 12 to 24 hours (ideally in an anneal
ing liquid at 140C to 170C) can largely remove internal stresses
occurring in thick-walled parts made from grades with a high modulus
of elasticity (e.g. Ultramid A3EG7) or in extruded semi-finished parts.
Annealing also results in postcrystallization of incompletely crystallized
injection-molded parts (produced with a cold mold). On the one hand
this causes an increase in density, abrasion resistance, rigidity and
hardness and on the other hand it gives rise to slight after-shrinkage
and sometimes a small amount of warpage.
Heat-resistant mineral, paraffin and silicone oils are excellent annealing
liquids. The annealed parts must be cooled slowly.
52
Air intake channel
Fan rotor
Table10: Time required for Ultramid sheet to attain a moisture content corresponding to the equilibrium moisture content

obtained in a standerd atmosphere (23C/50% r.h.)1

(figures in bold type refer to days, non-bold to hours)
Ultramid
B-grades
unreinforced
glass-fiber reinforced
mineral-filled
A-grades
unreinforced
glass-fiber reinforced
mineral-filled
1
2
Equilibrium moisture
content atmosphere
NK 23/50 [%]1
Conditions
10
3.5
1
0,3
14
4
1
2.5
16
4
5
1.5
10
10
3
18
16
4.5
1
Atmosphere 40C/90%
70C/62%2
15
10
2.5
2
11
5
25
10
45
70
Water bath
6
1.5
0.5
1.3
6
2
4.5
1
8
10
2.5
20
20
5
1.5
28
8
2.5
1
15
4
2.5
18
10
40
23
70
Water bath
3.0
1.52.6
2.02.4
2.8
1.22.2
1.41.5
Thickness [mm]
40C
60C
80C
40C
60C
80C
Atmosphere 40C/90%
70C/62%2
Values for individual grades are given in the Ultramid range chart.
Used in ISO 1110-Polyamides-Accelerated conditioning of test specimens.
53
General information
Safety notes
Safety precautions during processing
Ultramid melts are thermally stable at the usual temperature for A, B
and C of 310C and 350C for T and do not give rise to hazards
due to molecular degradation or the evolution of gases and vapors.
Like all thermoplastic polymers, Ultramid decomposes on exposure
to excessive thermal load, e.g. when it is overheated or as a result of
cleaning by burning off. In such cases gaseous decomposition products
are formed. Decomposition accelerates above the usual temperatures,
the initial products formed being mainly carbon monoxide and ammonia, and caprolactam in the case of Ultramid B. At temperatures above
about 350C (Ultramid T above 400C) small quantities of pungent
smelling vapors of aldehydes, amines and other nitrogenous decomposition products are also formed.
When Ultramid is properly processed no harmful vapors are produced
in the area of the processing machinery.
In the event of incorrect processing, e.g. high thermal stresses and/or
long residence times in the processing machine, there is the risk of
elimination of pungent-smelling vapors which can be a hazard to health.
Such a failure additionally becomes apparent due to brownish burn
marks on the moldings. This is remedied by ejection of the machine
contents into the open air and reducing the cylinder temperature at the
same time. Rapid cooling of the damaged material, e.g. in a waterbath,
reduces nuisances caused by odors.
In general measures should be taken to ensure ventilation and venting
of the work area, preferably by means of an extraction hood over the
cylinder unit.
Food contact status

Some standard-grades of the Ultramid product line are in conformity
with the current regulations for food contact in Europe and USA with
respect to their composition. In addition the Recommendations of
the German BfR (The governmental institute for risk assessment =
Bundesinstitut fr Riskobewertung, former BgVV/BGA )are fulfilled.
The Ultramid grades labelled with W, H, U and X (second letter in the
trade mark) are not suitable for food contact applications.
In case of detailed information about the food contact status for
an Ultramid grade please contact BASF Aktiengesellschaft
(plastics.safety@basf.com) directly. We are pleased to send you
a food contact compliance letter with respect to the regulations
in force at present.
Quality management
Quality management is an integral part of BASFs corporate policy.
Customer satisfaction with the products and services offered by BASF
is an essential objective of this policy.
The Engineering Plastics Business Unit Europe of BASF AG has a
process-oriented quality management system that has been certified
according to ISO/TS 16949 by an accredited certifying agency. This
certification encompasses all services rendered in conjunction with the
development, production, marketing and sale of ultraplastics.
The business unit ensures the proper functionality and further development of the quality management system by constantly improving its
procedures, processes and products.
54
FSI intake manifold system
Ge n er al i n for mati on
Quality assurance
Quality assurance in the converting plant
Quality assurance is a component of every modern injection-molding operation because apart from effects arising from the product the
quality of Ultramid moldings is primarily determined by the processing
parameters. Unchanging processing conditions are the prerequisite for
obtaining injection-molded parts of consistent quality. The most important process parameters are:
Goods inward inspection at the converter

In most countries converters have a legal duty to carry out goods
inward inspections. Such inspections are also essential because it
is only in this way that the converter can obtain reliable knowledge
as to the state of the goods at the time of their arrival.
Apart from a visual examination, depending on the product and
requirements a goods inward inspection for Ultramid primarily
covers the set of test methods set out in Table 17. Many other test
methods suitable for Ultramid are presented in DIN 16773, Part 2,
or ISO 1874-2 Polyamide molding compounds for injection-molding
and extrusion.
Melt temperature
Mold filling speed
Holding pressure and time
Mold surface temperature
Modern injection-molding machines are fitted with process regulation
instruments with which the defined variables can be kept constant
within a narrow tolerance range. Narrower process tolerances during
processing generally give rise to injection-molded parts having a uniform quality. Quality assurance can be facilitated through documentation of the actual values.
The values obtained from these test methods for the various Ultramid
grades are given in the Ultramid range chart.
Table11: Test methods for goods inward inspection of Ultramid

Test method1
Typical value given in

Ultramid range chart
Identification
Test
standards
Remarks
DIN 53746
Simple methods of indentification by means of melting point, density,

solubility
Melting point
ISO 3146-C
ISO 3146-A
DSC technique (heating and cooling rates 20C/min)

Capillary tube method
Density
ISO 1183
BASF simplified density titration method
Ash
ISO 3451-4
To determine the content of reinforcing material
Viscosity number VZ
ISO 307
Solvent 96% H2SO4, in the case of reinforced and modified products,

a correction must be made to the amount weighed out
Melt volume rate

MVR
ISO 1133
Preferred test conditons: 275C/5 kg load (Ultramid T 325C/5 kg);

material must contain less than 0.05% water
Moisture content
ISO 960 D
Vapor Pressure method (BASF)

Computer controlled coulometric Karl Fischer titrator; fine determiation in
microgram range possible (Mitsubishi method)
All tests can be performed on the molding compound or on the molded part.
Nominal values for the amount reinforcing material are given in the range chart.
3
Ultramid is supplied ready for processing with moisture content of less than 0.15% (injection-molding ) or 0.1% (extrusion)
2
55
General information
Important quality criteria for Ultramid moldings are:

Dimensional stability (freedom from warpage)
Surface finish
A simple test on finished parts is to weigh them. Any inconstancy in a
process can generally be observed through weight fluctuations. Surface
finish is checked by visual examination.
Examples of typical surface faults include discoloration, flow lines,
streaks, marks, grooves, sink marks, glass-fiber effects and warps.
A light-microscopic image showing the structure of thin layers of injection-molded parts is an important quality criterion, especially in the
case of the non-reinforced grades. It serves to depict defective crystalline structures and other irregularities inside the parts. Consequently,
the quality of Ultramid molded parts can be assessed so that conceivable causes for flaws can be ascertained (see Figure 57).
Examination of the microstructure is also useful for determining the
optimum processing conditions. It can also form part of continuous
quality assurance procedures. Planned quality control tasks while
production is in progress are essential for obtaining high-quality engineering parts from Ultramid. They can be carried out by means of
sampling or if need be done on all parts. Computer assisted test devices reduce the workload for measurements and facilitate documentation
of the tests.
Delivery and storage

Ultramid is supplied in the form of cylindrical or lenticular granules.
The bulk density is approximately 0.7 g/cm. The products are dried so
as to be ready for processing and they are delivered in moisture-tight
packaging. The standard types of packaging are 25-kg special bags
and 1000-kg bulk-product containers (octagon IBC = intermediate
bulk container made of corrugated cardboard with a liner bag). Upon
consultation, other kinds of packaging and shipment in silo trucks or
railway cars are likewise possible. All packaging is tightly sealed and
should only be opened immediately prior to the processing. The material, which is delivered completely dry, should not be permitted to absorb
any moisture from the air, so that all packaging has to be stored in dry
rooms and must always be carefully sealed again after any portions
have been removed.
When Ultramid is kept in undamaged packaging bags, it can be
stored indefinitely. Experience has shown that the product delivered in
an IBC can be stored for approximately three months without the processing properties being impaired by moisture absorption. Packaging
stored in cold areas should be allowed to warm up to room temperature before being opened so that no condensation can precipitate onto
the granules.
Changes in crystal
structure due to the
molding and setting
process
Changes in crystal
structure due to the
molding and setting
process
Flaws in the material
Exernal effects on the
finished part to
overstressing
Detection of flaws caused
by finishing process
Fig. 57: Assessment criteria for optical microscopic examination

of finished parts made from Ultramid
56
Colors
Ultramid and the environment
Ultramid is supplied in both uncolored and colored forms. Uncolored

Ultramid has a natural opaque white color. Individual grades are available in several standard colors and shades.
Storage and transportation

Under normal conditions Ultramid can be stored indefinitely. Even
at elevated temperatures, e.g. 40C in air, and under the action of
sunlight and weather no decomposition reactions occur (cf. sections
Delivery and storage and Behavior on exposure to weather).
The H and W stabilized Ultramid grades are exceptions which can only
be supplied in black or natural because their natural color does not
permit colored pigmentation to a specific shade. This is also the case
for Ultramid A3X grades with fire resistant additive and Ultramid T
(cf. colors in the Ultramid range chart).
Ultramid is not a hazardous material as defined by the German ordinance on hazardous materials of September 19, 1994 and hence is
not a hazardous material for transportation (cf. Ultramid safety data
sheet).
Ultramid is assigned to the German water pollution class WGK 0,
i.e. Ultramid poses no risk to groundwater.
Waste disposal
Subject to local authority regulations Ultramid can be dumped or
incinerated together with household garbage. The calorific value of
unreinforced grades amounts to 29.000 to 32.000 kJ/kg (Hu according to DIN 51900).
57
General information
Services
The burning behavior of Ultramid is described in detail in the section
Fire behavior.
When Ultramid is completely burned, it releases carbon dioxide,
water and nitrogen oxide. In case of incomplete combustion, carbon
monoxide and hydrogen cyanide are also generated. In addition, the
fire gases contain traces of unburned primary decomposition products
such as, for instance, hydrocarbons, compounds containing nitrogen
and their oxidation products.
The toxicity of the combustion gases is determined primarily by their
carbon monoxide content. Toxicological studies have shown that the
decomposition products given off in the temperature range up to 400C
are less toxic than those produced by wood. At higher temperatures
the toxicity is comparable.
Our customers are constantly seeking ways of optimizing their processes. Since the material and the processing machines account
for up to 80% of the costs of producing a plastic part these are key
factors for success. We help to optimize process parameters and the
use of materials and hence to bring down the production costs to the
lowest level possible.
Major elements of our range of services are computer-aided testing
and optimization of parts together with damage analysis. Our many
years of experience coupled with the latest test methods ensure a significant contribution to the speedy solution of your particular problems.
We will be happy to give you more detailed information at our UltraInfopoint.
Recovery
Like other production wastes, sorted Ultramid waste materials, e.g.
ground up injection-molded parts and the like, can be fed back to
a certain extent into processing depending on the grade and the
demands placed on it (cf. Reprocessing and recovering of scrap).
In order to produce defect-free injection-molded parts containing
regenerated material the ground material must be clean and dry (drying is usually necessary, cf. General notes on processing: Preliminary
treatment, drying). It is also essential that no thermal degradation
has occurred in the preceding processing. The maximum permissible
amount of regrind that can be added should be determined in trials. It
depends on the grade of Ultramid, the type of injection-molded part
and on the requirements. The properties of the parts, e.g. impact and
mechanical strength, and also processing behavior, such as flow properties, shrinkage and surface finish, can be markedly affected in some
grades by even small amounts of reground material.
Circuit carrier
from Kromberg&Schubert
58
Product range
Injection-molding grades (unreinforced)
Characteristics
Ultramid B
easy flowing, very fast processing, high impact strength once

conditioned
B3S
easy flowing to medium viskosity, fast processing, high impact

strength, even at dry state
impact-modified to give very high impact strength even at dry
state and low temperatures; fast processing
Ultramid A
Ultramid T
Ultramid C
Copolyamide
A3K
A4K
B3L
high resistance to heat aging
A3Z
A3W
A4H
very high resistance to distortion and heat aging
T KR 4350
flame-retardant (UL 94 V-0)
C3U
dry-running material with improved tribological properties

for unlubricated systems
A3R
Injection-molding grades (reinforced)

Characteristics
glass-fiber reinforced (10% to 50%)
Ultramid B
Ultramid A
high-impact grades
good heat-aging resistance and dielectric properties
B35EG3,
B3EG36
B3G8
A3EG510
impact-modified to give enhanced notched

impact strength and breaking strength
B3ZG3
B3ZG6
B3ZG8
very high heat-aging resistance even in lubricants

very high heat-aging resistance
Ultramid C
Copolyamide
T KR 4357 G6
A3HG510
B3WG510
with enhanced hydrolysis resistance
A3WG310
A3HG6HR
very high resistance to distortion and heat aging

flame-retardant
Ultramid T
T KR 4355 G5
T KR 4355 G7
B3UG4
A3X2G510
T KR 4365 G5
C3UG4
mineral-filled (15% to 40%)

grades with very high rigidity and strength; low warpage
B3WM602
grades with medium rigidity and strength; low warpage
B3M6
flame-retardant
B3UM4
glass-fiber and mineral-filled; glass-bead reinforced

grades with medium rigidity and strength; low warpage
B3WGM24
BG40GM45HS
B3GK24
A3WGM53
59
General information
Ultramid Nomenclature
Ultramid commercial grades are uniformly designated by letters and
digits which indicate chemical composition, melt viscosity, stabilization,
glass fiber content and processing behavior.
s
r
tte
ive
dit rd le
ad
3
nd
da
2n
r
do
2n t
igi
td
1s
r
tte
t le
1s
1st letter
Type of PA
B = PA 6
A = PA 66
C = copolyamide 66/6 (melting point 243C)
T = copolyamide 6/6T (melting point 298C)
KR = special order products
1st digit
Viscosity class
3 = easy flowing, low melt viscosity, mainly for injection-molding
(however Ultramid B3 without additives and reinforcement
only for extrusion),
35 = Low to medium viscosity, for injection-molding and for
extruding monofilaments and films
4 = medium viscosity, for injection-molding and extrusion
2nd or 2nd and 3rd letter
Type of stabilization
E, K = stabilized, light natural color, enhanced resistance to heat
aging, weather and hot water, dielectric properties remain
unaffected (see Table 2)
H = stabilized enhanced resistance to heat aging, weather and hot
water, only for enineering parts,electrical properties remain
unaffected, natural color (see Table 2)
W = stabilized, high resistance to heat aging, only available
uncolored and black, less suitable if high demands are placed
on the parts electrical properties (see Table 2)
60
Special properties, additives

HR = enhanced hydrolysis resistance
L = impact-modified and stabilized, impact resistent when dry,
easy flowing, for fast processing
R = PE-modified and stabilized, for highly stressed, low noise,
low-friction bearings
S = for rapid processing, very fine crystalline structure;
for injection-molding
U = with fire-retardant finish without red phosphorus
X2 = with red phosphorus as the fire-retardant finish
Z = impact modified and stabilized with very high low-temperature
impact strength (unreinforced grades) or enhanced impact
strength (reinforced grades)
Type of reinforcement
G (plus digit) = glass-fiber reinforced
C (plus digit) = carbon-glass fiber reinforced
K (plus digit) = glass-bead reinforced, stabilized
M (plus digit) = mineral-filled, stabilized; special product:
M602 with 30% special-silicate
(enhanced rididity)
Combinations available with glass-fiber reinforcement:
GM (glass fibers/mineral)
GK (glass fibers/glass-beads)
2nd or 2nd and 3rd digit
Content of reinforcing material
(mass fraction)
2 = 10%
3 = 15%
4 = 20%
5 = 25%
6 = 30%
7 = 35%
8 = 40%
10 = 50%
The amount of reinforcing materials for combinations of glass-fibers
(G), with mineral (M) or glass-beads (K) indicated by 2 digits, e.g.:
GM 53 = 25% glass-fibers and 15% mineral, stabilized
GK 24 = 10% glas-fibers and 20% glass-beads, stabilized
Subject Index
Example 1
Ultramid A4 H
A = PA 66
4 = viscosity class 4 (medium viscosity)
H = enhanced heat stabilization
Example 2
Ultramid A3X2G10
A = PA 66
3 = viscosity class 3 (low viscosity, for
injection-molding)
X2 = flame retardant (contains phosphorus)
G10 = 50% fiberglass
Aftershrinkage 44, 48
Air intake channel 53
Annealing 52
Application of heat 20
Automotive sector 4, 5
Awning plug 9
Back pressure 40
Barrier screws 34
Behavior
on application of heat 20
under cyclic loads 16
on exposure to high-energy radiation 28
on exposure to weather 28
under flexural fatigue strength 16
under long-term static loading 16
Cavitation 18
Change of materials 32
Characteristics 10
Chemical engineering 6
Circuit breaker 6
Circuit carrier 58
Circular connector 14
Coefficient of sliding friction 19
Colors 57
Compatibility 32
Conditioning 52, 53
Coolant throughput 8
Cylinder temperatures 38
Delivery 56
Demolding 44
Dimensional changes 48
Dimensional stability 22
Draft 36
Drop erosion 18
Drying 32
Duration of conditioning 52
Effect of
gate position and type 48
holding pressure 46
injection rate 46
melt temperature 46
mold temperature 46
wall thickness 48
Electric and electronic industry 6, 7
Electric power steering with plastic
worm wheel 33
Electrical properties 24
Engine cover 5
Enthalpy 31
Environment 57
Equilibrium moisture content 25, 53
Exposure to weather 28
Fan rotor 53
Feeding 40
Fire behavior
General notes 26
Tests 26
Fixing caps 27
Flexural fatigue strength 16-18
Flexural strength 22
Flow characteristics 42, 43
Food contact status 54
Fracture energy W50 15
Free shrinkage 45
Fuse box 45
Gate position 48
Generator end cap 5
Glass-fiber reinforced Ultramid 11, 17, 18, 25
Goods inward inspection at the converter 55
Hammer drill 21
Heat aging resistance 20, 21
in hot lubricants, coolants and solvents 22
High-energy radiation 28, 29
Holding pressure 46
Hot embossing 50
Household 8
Housing 8, 42
Impact strength 14, 15, 22
Impeded shrinkage 45, 48, 49
Injection mold 36
Injection molding 34
gas-assisted (GAM) 34
with the water-injection technique (WIT) 34
Injection rate 46
Inserts 38
Intake manifold system 54
Isochronous stress-strain curves 17
Jet erosion 18
Joining methods 50
61
General information
Laser marking 50
Linear expansion 19
Low-temperature impact strength 14
Lower Bumper Stiffener 5, 28, 57
Machine nozzle 36
Machining 50
Materials-handling technology 6
Measuring stick 9
Mechanical engineering 6
Mechanical properties 12
Melt temperatures 38, 46
Melt viscosity 30
Melting and setting behavior 30
Metallizing 51
Mineral-filled Ultramid 11
Modulus of elasticity 11, 13
Moisture content 12, 24
Mold design 36
Mold filling 42
Mold temperature control channels
and devices 38
Mold temperatures 38, 46
Mold venting 37
Molding shrinkage 39
Molecular data 29
Nd-YAG lasers 51
Needle shut-off nozzle 37
Nomenclature 60
Non-return valve 35
Online paintable car parts
Plasticizing unit 34
Plug connector 6, 12
Plug-in connector 7, 43
Plumbing engineering 8f.
Power engineering 6
Practical conditioning method 52
Precision engineering 6
Preliminary treatment 32
62
Printing 50
Processing 30ff.
Processing by injection molding 38, 41
Processing characteristics 30, 40
Processing temperatures 38, 39
Product range 10, 14, 59
Properties 10ff.
Protection against abrasion and wear 36
Quality assurance 55f.

Quality assurance in the converting plant 55
Quality criteria 56
Quality management 54
Recovering of scrap 33
Tensile stress 12
Tension pulleys 20
Terminal block 7
Test box 44
Test methods for goods inward inspection 55
Thermal properties 18, 30
Thermostability of the melts 30
Three section-screws 34, 35
Transportation 26, 57
Tribological properties 18
Truck-engine sump 19
Types of gating 37, 48
Ultramid
grades 10
Recovery 58
Reprocessing 33
Residence time 39f.
Resistance to chemicals 27
Vented screws 34
Viscometric data 29
Viscosity 30, 31
Volume resistivity 25
Safety notes 54
Wall thickness 48
Warpage 49
Waste disposal 57
Water absorption 22, 23
Wear due to sliding friction 18
Wear rates 19
Welding methods 51
Safety precautions during processing 54

Sanitary engineering 8, 9
Sanitary set (Hewi) 9
Screw flight depths 35
Screw gate dimensioning 37
Screw speed 40
Screw tip 35
Seat 5
Self-coloring 32
Services 58
Shear modulus 12, 13
Shrinkage 44-49
Shutdown 32
Snowboard binding 49
Specific volume resistivity 25
Spiral flow length 42, 43
Stabilized grades 21
Start-up 32
Storage 56, 57
Stress-strain diagrams 15
Surface coating 51
Yield stress 11, 12
Autofroth*
Polyurethane system
PU
Basotect
Foam from melamine resin
MF
Capron
Polyamide
PA
Cellasto*
Components made from microcellular PU elastomers
PU
CeoDS*
Multifunctional composits made from Cellasto components
PU
Colorflexx
Service for the self-coloring of polystyrene and ABS
CosyPUR*
PU soft foam system
Ecoflex
Biodegradable plastic/polyester
PU
Ecovio
Biodegradable plastic/polyester on the basis of renewable raw materials
Elastan*
Systems for sports field surfaces
PU
Elastoclear*
PU system
PU
Elastocoat*
PU systems as coating and casting compounds
PU
Elastocoast*
PU systems as coating and casting compounds
PU
Elastocore*
PU cast system
PU
Elastoflex*
Soft polyurethane foam systems
PU
Elastofoam*
Soft integral polyurethane foam systems
PU
Elastollan*
Thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers
PU
Elastolit*
Rigid integral polyurethane foam systems and RIM systems
PU
PU
Elastonat*
Flexible integral polyurethane systems
Elastopan*
Polyurethane shoe foam systems
PU
Elastopir*
Rigid polyurethane foam systems
PU
Elastopor *
Rigid polyurethane foam systems
PU
Elastoskin*
Flexible integral polyurethane systems
PU
Elastospray*
PU spray foam system
PU
Elasturan*
Systems as cold curing cast elastomers
PU
Lupranat*
Diisocyanates
PU
Lupranol*
Polyether polyols
PU
Lupranol* Balance
Polyether polyols
PU
Lupraphen*
Polyether polyols
PU
Luran
Styrene/acrylonitrile copolymer
SAN
Luran S
Acrylonitrile/styrene/acrylate polymer
ASA
Luran SC
Acrylonitrile/styrene/acrylate polymer and polycarbonate
ASA+PC
Miramid
Polyamide
PA 6, PA 66
Polyethylene foam
EPE
Neopolen E
Neopolen P
Polypropylene foam
EPP
Neopor
Expandable polystyrene
PS-E
Palusol
Alkali silicate
PERMASKIN
System for coating components
Peripor
PlasticsPortalTM
Web-based e-Commerce platform for solutions and information
Pluracol**
Polyether polyols
PU
Polystyrol, impact-modified
Polystyrene HIPS
PS-I
Polystyrol, standard
Polystyrene GPPS
PS
SPSTM*
Steel-polyurethane systems
PU
Styrodur C
Extruded rigid polystyrene foam
XPS
Styroflex
Styrene/butadiene block copolymer
SB
Styrolux
Styrene/butadiene block copolymer
SB
Styropor
PS-E
Terblend N
Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene polymer and polyamide
ABS+PA
Terluran
Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene polymer
ABS
Terluran HH
Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene polymer
ABS
Terlux
Methyl methacrylate/acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene polymer
MABS
PBT, (PBT+ASA)
PS-E
Ultradur
Polybutylene terephthalate
Ultraform
Polyoxymethylene
POM
Ultramid
Polyamide
PA 6, 66, 6/66, 6/6T
Ultrason E
Polyethersulfone
PESU
Ultrason S
Polysulfone
PSU
= reg. trademark of BASF Aktiengesellschaft

* = reg. trademark of Elastogran GmbH
** = reg. trademark of BASF Corporation
ge n er al i n for mati on
Plastics from BASF

The product range at a glance
Please visit our websites:
BASF Plastics:
www.plasticsportal.com (World)
www.plasticsportal.eu (Europe)
Additional information on
specific products:
www.plasticsportal.eu/name of product
e.g. www.plasticsportal.eu/ultramid
Polyurethanes:
www.basf.com/polyurethanes
www.elastogran.de
PVC and PVCD:
www.solvinpvc.com
Note
The data contained in this publication
are based on our current knowledge and
experience. In view of the many factors
that may affect processing and application
of our product, these data do not relieve
processor from carrying out own investigations and tests neither do these data
imply any guarantee for certain properties
nor the suitability of the product for a specific purpose. Any descriptions, drawings,
photographies, data, proportions, weights
etc. given herein may change without
prior information and does not constitute
the agreed contractual quality of the product. It is the responsibility of the recipient
of our products to ensure that any proprietary rights and existing laws and legislation are observed. (September 2007)
TM = trademark of BASF Aktiengesellschaft

TM* = trademark of Elastogran GmbH
63
= registered trademark of BASF Aktiengesellschaft
Tel.: +49 621 60-78780

Fax: +49 621 60-78730
E-Mail:
ultraplaste.infopoint@basf.com
KTEM 0705 BE
Request of brochures:
KS/KC, E100
Fax: +49 621 60-49497

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What properties make Ultramid suitable for a wide range of applications?

What properties make Ultramid suitable for a wide range of applications?

How does Ultramid compare to conventional materials in the automotive industry?

How does Ultramid compare to conventional materials in the automotive industry?

Ultramid the material of choice

The properties of Ultramid

The processing of Ultramid

account of its broadly based functionality Ultramid

Typical Ultramid applications in automotive engineering:

Ul trami d the materi al of c hoi c e

Generator end cap

Lower Bumper Stiffener

Ultramid in the electric and

Ul trami d the materi al of c hoi c e

Ultramid for plumbing and

Ul trami d the materi al of c hoi c e

Sanitary set (Hewi)

The properties of Ultramid

Ultramid is the tradename for polyamides supplied

by polycondensation or hydrolytic polymerization of

The most important characteristics of Ultramid are:

High strength and rigidity

Table1: Ultramid grades

polyhexamethylene adipamide NH(CH2)6NHCO(CH2)4CO

copolymer of hexamethylene diamine adipic acid and caprolactam

copolymer of caprolactam hexamethylene diamine and terephthalic acid

Melting point [C]

Glass-fiber reinforced Ultramid

Reinforced grades with flame retardants

Yield stress / Tensile stress [MPa], 23C, dry state

Modulus of elasticity [MPa], 23C, dry state

Fig. 2: Modulus of elasticity for selected Ultramid grades at 23C

The properties of Ultramid

The Ultramid product range includes grades with many combinations

Tensile stress [MPa]

These advantages are attributable to the partially crystalline structure

Moisture content [%]

Shear modulus [MPa]

Fig. 3: Tensile stress (yield stress in the case of unreinforced grades)

Fig. 4: Shear modulus of Ultramid A and T grades as a function of

Modulus of elasticity [MPa]

Shear modulus [MPa]

Fig. 7: Modulus of elasticity of reinforced Ultramid B grades as a

Modulus of elasticity [MPa]

Modulus of elasticity [MPa]

Fig. 5: Shear modulus of Ultramid B grades as a function of

80 100 120 140 160

80 100 120 140 160

Fig. 6: Modulus of elasticity of reinforced Ultramid A grades as a

80 100 120 140 160

Fig. 8: Tensile modulus of elasticity (ISO 527) of Ultramid T compared

The properties of Ultramid

The product range can be classified by six groups

Impact strength, low-temperature impact strength

Tensile stress [MPa]

Tensile stress [MPa]

Tensile stress [MPa]

Fig. 9: Stress-strain diagrams for Ultramid B3S and B3WG5 (dry)