PA12 Material Guide: Complete Technical Reference
PA12 (Nylon 12) is the industry standard material for SLS 3D printing, representing 85% of all selective laser sintering applications. This comprehensive guide covers PA12 properties, processing parameters, applications, and technical specifications.
PA12 Technical Properties
| Property | Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 48 MPa | ISO 527 |
| Elongation at Break | 18% | ISO 527 |
| Flexural Modulus | 1700 MPa | ISO 178 |
| Impact Strength | 5.3 kJ/m² | ISO 179 |
| Heat Deflection Temp (HDT) | 180°C @ 0.45 MPa | ISO 75 |
| Density | 0.95 g/cm³ | ISO 1183 |
| Water Absorption | 1.5% @ 23°C | ISO 62 |
| Melting Temperature | 187°C | DSC |
Key Characteristics
- Isotropic Properties: Equal strength in X, Y, Z directions unlike FDM
- Chemical Resistance: Resistant to oils, greases, solvents, weak acids/bases
- UV Stability: Excellent outdoor weathering resistance
- Biocompatibility: USP Class VI and ISO 10993 certified grades available
- ESD Properties: Can be formulated with carbon for static dissipation
Processing Parameters
Build Chamber Temp170-175°C
Layer Thickness0.1-0.15 mm
Laser Power18-30 W
Scan Speed2500-5000 mm/s
Powder Refresh Rate30-50%
Cooling Time8-12 hours
PA12 Applications
- Aerospace: Ducting, brackets, interior components
- Automotive: Intake manifolds, custom fixtures, prototypes
- Consumer: Eyewear, footwear, sporting goods
- Medical: Surgical guides, prosthetics, anatomical models
- Industrial: Jigs, fixtures, end-use production parts
- Defense: Rapid prototyping, custom components
Start Printing with PA12 on SinterX
Experience professional PA12 3D printing with the SinterX industrial SLS printer. Optimized parameters and automated powder handling for consistent results.