Details
Material hierarchy: Polymer - Engineering Thermoplastic
Polyamide-imide is abbreviated PAI. Among the highest temperature amorphous thermoplastics, polyamide-imide resins have a useful service temperature range from cryogenic to almost 500°F. Their heat resistance approaches that of polyimides, but their mechanical properties are distinctly better than those of the polyimides.
PAI is inherently flame-retardant, with UL94 V-O ratings down to less than 0.010 inch thickness. The material burns with very low smoke and passes FAA standards for aircraft interior use.
The chemical resistance of PAI is excellent; it generally is unaffected by aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons, acids, bases, and halogenated solvents. At high temperatures, however, it is attacked by steam and strong acids and bases.
Polyamide-imide can be injection-molded, but some special modifications are needed because the material is reactive at processing temperatures. Special screws and accumulators are recommended. To develop the full physical properties of PAI, molded parts have to be post-conditioned by gradually raising their temperature.
Applications for polyamide-imide include engine and generator components, hydraulic bushings and seals, and mechanical parts for electronics and business machines.
PAI is an imidized thermoplastic material, with a continuous use temperature range of up to 500°F (260°C). It has a medium difficulty to machine. It has excellent dimensional stability, excellent impact resistance, and excellent chemical resistance. It has excellent bearing and wear resistance and is ideal for structural applications. It has outstanding creep properties. It has superior dielectric strength.