Material library / Plastic

Nylon

Self-lubricating, wear-resistant - ideal for moving parts.

78 MPa

Tensile Strength

2.7 GPa

Flexural Modulus

120 °C

Heat Deflection Temp

0.1–0.3 mm

Layer Resolution

1.14 g/cm³

Density

30 %

Elongation at Break

Nylon (Polyamide) is one of the most mechanically capable FDM materials available. Its self-lubricating properties make it ideal for gears, bearings, and sliding mechanisms. It has excellent fatigue resistance, meaning it can withstand repeated bending cycles without failure.

Nylon is a strong choice for any application where parts are in constant motion or under cyclical loading.

Advantages

  • Self-lubricating - excellent for gears and bushings
  • Highest fatigue resistance of standard FDM materials
  • Good chemical resistance to oils, fuels, and solvents
  • Flexible enough to absorb shock without cracking

Limitations

  • Highly hygroscopic - must be dried before and during printing
  • Requires dry storage; absorbs moisture from the air within hours

Applications

  • Gears & pulleys
  • Bearings & bushings
  • Cable guides
  • Food-processing parts
  • Structural brackets
  • Living hinges

Printing tips

Dry nylon at 80 °C for 8–12 hours before printing. Print at 240–260 °C with a bed temperature of 70–90 °C. An enclosed printer is recommended. Print slowly and use brim or raft to improve bed adhesion.

Nylon FAQ

Why must Nylon be dried before printing?
Nylon absorbs moisture from the air rapidly. Wet filament causes bubbling, stringing, and weak layer bonds. We dry all nylon filament to ≤0.08% moisture content before every print run.

Related materials

Ready to print in Nylon? The quote page prices it against your actual geometry, so you know the real cost before you commit.

Upload a file & quote Nylon