Materials

LCP (Liquid Crystal Polymer)

LCPs are relatively new materials with interesting properties. They have tensile strength and modulus close to aluminum. Because of the highly oriented, rod-like nature of the polymer molecules, LCPs present some interesting design challenges — the molecules will only form in straight lines. Additionally, the high orientation only occurs within about .040" of the surface of the part; molecular orientation below this skin is random, so all of the strength of the material is in the skin. Good design data is not available for these materials, so prototyping is a must — and prototypes must be molded, because of the molecular orientation mentioned above.

VectraCoolPolyZenite

Typical Properties

Tensile Strength12,000-32,000 psi
Flexural Modulus1,300,000-4,600,000 psi
Impact Strength1.1-11 ft-lb/in notched izod
Max Temperature430°-500° F
Chemical ResistanceGood to Excellent

Applications

  • Electrical and mechanical parts
  • Food containers
  • Applications requiring chemical inertness and high strength

Advantages

  • + Strong resistance to chemical attack
  • + Excellent thermal and dimensional stability
  • + Absorb little moisture
  • + Flame retardant

Disadvantages

  • − Causes weakness at weld lines
  • − Generally incompatible with other polymers
  • − Higher cost
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