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Material Overview
What is PAI AF?
PAI AF is the anti-friction, internally lubricated grade of polyamide-imide (PAI). It is compounded with PTFE and graphite fillers that dramatically lower the coefficient of friction and enhance surface wear resistance while preserving the exceptional thermal and mechanical properties of the base PAI resin. The result is a bearing-grade thermoplastic engineered for continuous sliding contact under elevated temperature and load conditions.
PAI AF retains reliable performance at temperatures exceeding 250 °C (482 °F) and maintains structural integrity under sustained mechanical stress. The internal lubricants reduce friction against mating metal surfaces without requiring external lubrication, making PAI AF ideal for dry-running bearing applications. Low thermal expansion and excellent dimensional stability ensure precision clearances are maintained across wide temperature cycles.
Typical applications include bushings, thrust washers, seal rings, piston components, and any precision wear part operating under load in a high-temperature environment. PAI AF is widely specified in aerospace, semiconductor, oil and gas, and advanced industrial equipment where metal bearings are too heavy or too corrosive and lower-performance polymer bearings cannot survive the operating environment.
Ready Plastics stocks PAI AF in rod and plate for machined bearing and wear components. For maximum strength without lubrication needs, see the unfilled PAI grade. Contact Ready Plastics for available dimensions and to request a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
PAI AF, answered
What is PAI AF?
PAI AF is the anti-friction, filled grade of polyamide-imide (PAI). It contains internal lubricants — PTFE and graphite — that lower friction and improve wear resistance compared to unfilled PAI, while retaining the extreme heat resistance and high strength of the base polymer. It is designed for bearing, bushing, and sliding-contact applications at temperatures above 250 °C.
What is the difference between PAI and PAI AF?
Unfilled PAI delivers maximum tensile strength and hardness for structural and precision components. PAI AF sacrifices a small amount of strength in exchange for significantly reduced friction and far superior wear life in sliding-contact applications. If your part runs against a mating surface under load, PAI AF is the better choice.
Does PAI AF need external lubrication?
No. The PTFE and graphite fillers in PAI AF act as internal lubricants, providing a low-friction surface film during operation. This makes it well suited for dry-running bearings and components in environments where external grease or oil is impractical or undesirable.
What shapes does Ready Plastics stock in PAI AF?
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