Superb, resin-rich surface provides a highly polished appearance, even with high glass fiber content.

The tensile and flexural strength of Ixef compounds are similar to many cast metals and alloys at ambient temperature. Ixef 1032 (60% glass fiber) exhibits typical values of 280 MPa and 400 MPa respectively at 23°C (73°F).

*ASTM Test Method at 23°C (73°F)

The creep resistance of Ixef compounds is superior to that of most engineering polymers with similar glass fiber content. Deformation of Ixef 1032 is less than 1% after 1,000 hours under 50 MPa of pressure at 50°C (122°F).

The coefficient of linear thermal expansion (CLTE) of Ixef compounds is similar to that of many cast metals and alloys at ambient temperatures. Low mold shrinkage and the ability to maintain tight tolerances (as little as ± 0.05% length tolerances when properly molded) allow for high reproducibility.

Ixef^® PARA’s highly aromatic structure results in lower and slower water absorption than typical polyamides, which are highly sensitive to humidity. Water absorption for Ixef 1022 (50% glass fiber) is only 0.16% after 24 hours of water immersion at room temperature.

Ixef^® compounds are highly resistant to aqueous solutions of wide range of chemicals and cleaning fluids as well as to common solvents, such as:

• Aliphatic hydrocarbons
• Aromatic hydrocarbons
• Chlorinated solvents
• Ketones
• Esters
• Ethers
• Glycols

Testing also shows good resistance to standard engine oil (Type SAE 10W30) after 2,000 hours at 120°C (248°F) and to automotive fuels after 2,000 hours at 40°C (104°F).

*1022/0006 (natural) and 1022/9006 (black) are compliant with ISO 10993

⁽¹⁾ for screw diameter 25-50 mm
⁽²⁾ w = wall thickness in mm
⁽³⁾ w = wall thickness in mm, > 2mm

It is essential that the mold temperature be 120°C to 140°C to achieve maximum crystallinity. This will assure:

• Good surface finish
• Good dimensional stability
• Full mechanical properties
• Low moisture absorption