Torlon

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Key Characteristics of Torlon

Torlon is an ultra-high-performance thermoplastic known for its exceptional mechanical strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance.

 

It is a type of polyamide-imide (PAI) material engineered to withstand continuous-use temperatures up to 260°C (500°F).

 

Torlon offers outstanding wear resistance, low friction, and excellent dimensional stability even under extreme loads and harsh conditions.

This material resists creep, fatigue, and most chemicals—including hydrocarbons and solvents - making it ideal for aerospace, automotive, electrical, and industrial applications.

 

Torlon is easily machined to tight tolerances and commonly used for bearings, bushings, valve components, and gears. It provides a premium solution where high strength, thermal endurance, and chemical resistance are essential for long-term reliability.

How Torlon is Used

Bearings and Bushings: Torlon’s wear resistance and strength make it ideal for high-load, high-temperature bearings.

 

Aerospace Fasteners: Its dimensional stability under stress suits fasteners and structural supports.

 

Valve Components: Torlon resists chemicals and heat, ensuring reliability in demanding fluid systems.

 

Electrical Connectors: Its insulation properties and thermal endurance make it effective in high-performance connectors.

 

Automotive Transmission Parts: Torlon’s creep resistance supports precision components in high-stress assemblies.

Technical Specifications

Torlon (PAI) is one of the strongest and stiffest thermoplastics available, even surpassing PEEK in mechanical strength at elevated temperatures. It maintains rigidity, wear resistance, and dimensional stability under extreme mechanical stress. Reinforced grades (typically glass or carbon fiber) further enhance stiffness and compressive strength.

Tensile Strength: ~160–190 MPa (unfilled), up to 230 MPa (reinforced)

Flexural Strength: ~230–250 MPa

Tensile Modulus (Elastic Modulus): ~5.0–6.0 GPa

Elongation at Break: ~6–12%

Impact Strength (Notched Izod): ~4–6 kJ/m²

Melting Point: ~282°C (540°F)

Glass Transition Temperature (Tg): ~275°C (527°F)

Continuous Use Temperature: ~260°C (500°F)

Thermal Conductivity: ~0.25 W/m·K

Coefficient of Thermal Expansion: ~30–35 × 10⁻⁶ /°C