High-performance polyamides: PPA, PA 4.6 and PARA

Three distinct families, not three names for the same thing.

Materials › High-performance polyamides: PPA, PA 4.6 and PARA

PPA, PA 4.6 and PARA — polyphthalamide, polyamide 4.6 and polyarylamide — are distinct families, considered when specific combinations of thermal, mechanical and dimensional performance are needed. They are not interchangeable: the choice calls for comparing grades under the intended service conditions, because within each family stabilisation and reinforcement weigh more than the acronym. In our archive they exist only reinforced: an unfilled grade would make no economic sense.

PPA / PA 4.6 / PARA GF30

The entry level

Under-bonnet components near the engine, connectors that go through reflow soldering.

Stiffness 11,500 MPa tensile modulus, ISO 527 9 grades
Strength 190 MPa tensile stress at break, ISO 527 7 grades
Density 1.47 g/cm³ density, ISO 1183 9 grades

Mixed sample: 5 PA46, 1 PARA, 3 PPA

PPA / PA 4.6 / PARA GF50

Metal-like stiffness, mostly PARA

Hot structural parts that must hold their dimensions under load.

Stiffness 19,500 MPa tensile modulus, ISO 527 5 grades
Strength 280 MPa tensile stress at break, ISO 527 5 grades
Density 1.64 g/cm³ density, ISO 1183 5 grades

Mixed sample: 1 PA46, 4 PARA

Brands and manufacturers

Data from producers’ datasheets, medians per family: they are for comparing levels with one another, not guaranteed values. We supply the datasheet of the chosen grade on request.

Real components, not renderings

Parts made in our own plants, with finishing done in-house.

Grey tapered duct printed in MJF, on a white background: a circular mouth narrowing into a flat spout.
PA12 duct, thin wall and varying section
Curved grey plate printed in MJF, pierced by dozens of round and shaped holes.
Lightened plate: holes and ribs in a single part
Two black fittings with a square base and a threaded cylindrical body, on a white background.
Same technology, black finish
Hands in blue gloves finishing a drilled grey bracket by hand, with a rotary tool.
We do the finishing ourselves, part by part

Not sure which one to choose? You do not have to decide on your own. Upload the model: in a few minutes you have the price, the delivery times and an automatic check that warns you if something cannot be produced — before you order, not after.

Upload a model