Intralox Materials Overview

Materials Overview

Intralox Materials Overview

The properties of the various plastic materials used to mold Intralox belts, chains, accessories and sprockets are described in detail in the introduction to the product section (section two) of Intralox's Engineering Manual. A chemical resistance guide can be found in section four (formulas & tables).

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POLYPROPYLENE (PP) is a standard material for general applications. It has good chemical resistance to many acids, bases, salts and alcohol. A relatively strong material in normal use, polypropylene exhibits a somewhat brittle quality at low temperatures.

POLYETHYLENE (PE) has superior fatigue resistance, high impact strength, and flexibility. It is also chemically resistant to many acids, bases and hydrocarbons and can be used at lower temperatures than polypropylene.

ACETAL (PA) thermoplastics are considerably stronger than PP and PE. They also have a good balance of mechanical, thermal and chemical properties, and a low coefficient of friction.

ELECTRICALLY CONDUCTIVE (EC) ACETAL contains additives, which significantly reduce its electrical resistance, thus helping to dissipate static.

HEAT RESISTANT (HR) NYLONScan operate at elevated temperatures where PP, PE and PA are not recommended. They are available in both FDA and non-FDA grades. Care should be used in wet environments, as these materials will absorb water and expand.

IMPACT RESISTANT (IR) NYLON can be used in place of PA in applications which are impact intensive. However, it is more susceptible to cuts and gouges than PA, and should be used with caution in wet environments as it absorbs water and will expand.

FLAME RETARDANT THERMOPLASTIC POLYESTER (TPES) is formulated so that it will not sustain a flame.

POLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITE (PPC) is made of an engineered resin for increased stiffness and minimal belt elongation through thermal expansion.

ELECTROSTATICALLY DISSIPATIVE (ESD) is specially formulated to dissipate static charge so that electronic parts are not damaged. It has a resistivity of 106 to 109 ohms.

DETECTABLE POLYPROPYLENE has Surface Resistivity per ASTM D257 of 545 Ohms per square and can be seen by X-ray machines. The new filled polypropylene material is effective even in applications involving temperatures as low as 0F (-18C). It is specially formulated to enhance impact resistance and not rust.