The Filament Factory (TFF), based in Bad Hersfeld, Germany, is launching a new range of high-performance polyamide 12 (PA12) high-strength multifilaments, following a successful cooperation with plastics leader Evonik on the development of an enhanced production process.

Compared to PA6 and PA6.6, PA12 has a lower concentration of amides and as a result, moisture and water absorption is significantly lower. PA12 is also particularly resistant to chemicals, especially fuels, oils, lubricants, various solvents, salt solutions, etc.

Due to its very low thermal shrinkage and low creep tendency, PA12 is further ideal for bearing and drive elements in humid environments where high dimensional stability is required. In addition, it offers a high strength of 75-85 cN/tex, excellent resistance to abrasion and hydrolysis, high rigidity and resistance to stress cracking, as well as durability.

With the specific density of 1.01 g/cm³, PA12 is regarded as an absolute lightweight among comparable polymers, enabling a weight reduction of 15-25% in existing components.

The new yarn family will be available in the range of 167-6,600 dtex and, if required, will also be offered as a spun-dyed yarn, depending on requirements. PA12 can also be easily finished in yarn and piece dyeings.

Applications for these new high-tenacity PA12 multifilament yarns include hoses, belts, load and climbing ropes, filter media and tyre cord.

“After a long period of development work, this new range represents a breakthrough,” says Yasar Kiray, TFF’s senior business development manager.

The Filament Factory produces PEEK, PPS, PBT and PEI multifilament yarns in different strengths, filament counts and colours. The main areas of application for these filamments are in technical textiles, architectural textiles, narrow textiles for automotive safety and sewing threads.

www.thefilamentfactory.de