Polyoxymethylene (POM), also known as acetal or polyacetal, is a high-performance engineering thermoplastic prized for its exceptional strength, stiffness, low friction, and outstanding wear resistance. Delrin® is the trade name for the homopolymer version of POM, offering superior tensile strength, creep resistance, and durability compared to copolymer grades. POM materials are naturally opaque white due to their high crystallinity but can be produced in various colors. They are highly machinable, dimensionally stable, and resistant to moisture, fuels, and many solvents, making them ideal for precision parts that require mechanical reliability and a glossy surface finish.
Common Uses of Polyoxymethylene (POM) / Delrin / Acetal
Automotive components such as fuel system parts, door lock mechanisms, and power window systems.
Electrical and electronic parts, including insulators, connectors, and housings.
Industrial pump and valve components, rollers, and conveyor system parts, especially for wet environments.
Consumer products like zippers, pen bodies, and eyeglass frames.
Medical devices, including insulin pens and inhalers.
Food industry components, with certain grades approved for direct food contact.
Applications requiring high dimensional stability, low moisture absorption, and excellent machinability.
POM/Delrin is widely used as a metal replacement in precision engineering, offering a unique combination of mechanical and tribological properties suitable for demanding industrial applications