1. Material & Basic Properties
- Nylon (Polyamide, Thermoplastic): Hydrogen-bonded molecular chain; melting point 180-190℃; density 1/7 of copper, but 8x more wear-resistant. Low friction coefficient (self-lubricating), low noise, non-toxic, food-contact safe (complies with 21 CFR 175.300).
- Polyester (Thermoset): Polar groups; TGIC/non-TGIC types; irreversible crosslinked structure after curing. Excellent UV resistance, high gloss (40-80 @60°), good leveling (no orange peel if thickness is controlled).
2. Key Performance Comparison
| Performance Metric |
Nylon Powder Coating |
Polyester Powder Coating |
| Wear Resistance |
Excellent (Taber loss 8-18mg); ideal for moving parts |
Good; suitable for general wear scenarios |
| Weatherability |
Moderate; moisture-absorbent (needs sealed storage) |
Excellent; AAMA 2603 certified; color retention outdoors |
| Chemical Resistance |
Weak (not acid/alkali resistant); epoxy-modified for corrosion protection |
Good (superior to epoxy); 1000+ hours salt spray resistance |
| Decorativeness |
Limited color options; medium gloss |
Rich colors (metallic/matte); high leveling |
| Thermal Stability |
Thermoplastic (re-meltable); lower heat resistance |
Thermoset (irreversible); higher heat resistance |
| Water Absorption |
High (moisture control required) |
Low; strong environmental adaptability |
3. Typical Applications
- Nylon: Wear-lubricated parts (bearings/gears), food-contact equipment, hand tools, marine hardware
- Polyester: Outdoor building materials, home appliances, auto parts, industrial enclosures
4. Process & Cost
| Factor |
Nylon Powder Coating |
Polyester Powder Coating |
| Application Method |
Fluidized bed + primer (for adhesion); 650°F pre-treatment + 475°F curing |
Electrostatic spray (high transfer efficiency); lower curing temp |
| Raw Material Cost |
Higher ($12-15/kg for PA12) |
Economical ($2-3/kg; lower in bulk) |
| Construction Cost |
Hidden costs (moisture control/primer) |
Low energy consumption; 4㎡ coverage per 500g |
| Lifecycle Cost |
Longer service life for high-wear parts |
Lower maintenance for outdoor use |
5. Selection Guide
- Choose Nylon: Prioritize wear resistance, lubricity, or food safety (mechanical parts, food equipment)
- Choose Polyester: Prioritize weatherability, decorativeness, or cost control (outdoor products, mass production)
- Hybrid Solutions: Epoxy-modified nylon (chemical-resistant wear parts); polyester + epoxy primer (high-corrosion outdoor scenarios)
Polypropylene vs Polyethylene
Thermoplastic vs Thermoset
Nylon Coating On Metal
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