Torlon® Polyamide‑Imide: High‑Performance Engineering Thermoplastic

Torlon® Polyamide‑Imide (PAI): The Ultimate Engineering Thermoplastic

Torlon® is Solvay’s trademark for polyamide‑imide (PAI), a family of amorphous thermoplastics renowned for exceptional strength, stiffness, and resistance across an extreme temperature range. Machined into custom parts, fasteners, and high‑performance hardware, Torlon® delivers reliability in the most demanding environments.

Unmatched High‑Heat Performance

With a continuous service temperature of 260 °C (500 °F) and a glass‑transition temperature (Tg) of 280 °C (537 °F), Torlon® PAI maintains its structural integrity from cryogenic conditions to 275 °C (535 °F). Its low coefficient of linear thermal expansion and inherent flame resistance make it the top choice for high‑temperature applications where other plastics fail.

Superior Toughness and Impact Resistance

PAI’s toughness allows it to absorb impact energy and deform plastically without fracturing, even under extreme temperatures. Parts fabricated from Torlon® exhibit higher compressive strength and impact resistance than most engineered plastics, ensuring long‑term durability in critical components.

Exceptional Chemical Resistance

Torlon® resists strong acids, bases, and a wide range of organic solvents. It remains stable in inorganic salt solutions, alkalis, and most hydrocarbons, including chlorinated and fluorinated variants. Caution: saturated steam, strong bases, and certain high‑temperature acids can degrade the polymer.

Wide Range of Grades for Specific Needs

Torlon® offers unreinforced, glass‑fiber‑filled, carbon‑fiber‑reinforced, and wear‑resistant grades. Popular variants include:

• 4203 – High dielectric strength, brown exterior with a yellowish core, ideal for insulation and fasteners.
• 4301 – Low expansion, low friction, 1,000,000 psi flexural modulus; perfect for non‑lubricated bearings, seals, and compressor parts.
• 5030 – 30 % glass fibers, high modulus, 50 % lower CLTE than 4203; suited for structural parts, electrical and thermal insulators, and fasteners.

Post‑Curing for Optimal Performance

Extruded PAI stock must be post‑cured for 30 days at up to 260 °C (500 °F). This process increases molecular weight through chain extension, enhances chemical resistance, removes moisture, and relieves internal stresses before machining.

Applications Across Industries

Torlon® PAI is widely used in aerospace, semiconductor, oil & gas, and automotive sectors. From screws, nuts, bolts, bushings, bearings, and seals to high‑performance coatings and molded hardware, it delivers reliability where performance is non‑negotiable.

Ready to elevate your next project? Contact Craftech for expert guidance on Torlon® parts, 3‑D printing, and engineering solutions.