Polyoxymethylene (POM) has revolutionized the design of gears and bearings, offering engineers a material that combines mechanical strength, low friction, and exceptional wear resistance. Today, POM has replaced metal in countless gear and bearing applications, delivering superior performance at reduced cost and weight.

The Evolution of POM in Mechanical Components

POM's journey from metal replacement to preferred material for gears and bearings is rooted in its unique property profile. The material's self-lubrication, combined with high stiffness and dimensional stability, makes it ideal for demanding tribological applications.

Why POM for Gears?

Gear Performance Requirements
POM gears must withstand:

• High cyclic loads

• Continuous friction

• Temperature variations

• Environmental exposure

POM's Advantages for Gears

• High Stiffness and Rigidity: Maintains gear tooth geometry under load

• Self-Lubricating Properties: Eliminates need for external lubrication

• Excellent Wear Resistance: Long service life

• Dimensional Stability: Consistent gear performance over time

• Low Noise: Smooth, quiet operation

Gear Applications
POM gears are found in:

• Automotive systems (door locks, seat adjusters, window mechanisms)

• Industrial machinery

• Consumer electronics (microgears for devices)

• Medical equipment

• Robotics and automation

Why POM for Bearings?

Bearing Performance Requirements
Bearings require:

• Low friction for efficient operation

• Wear resistance for long life

• Dimensional stability for proper fit

• Resistance to environmental factors

POM's Advantages for Bearings

• Excellent Stability: Maintains dimensions in various environments

• Good Wear Resistance: Performs well in moist environments

• Low Friction: Efficient operation without lubrication

• Corrosion Resistance: Outperforms metals in corrosive environments

Bearing Applications
POM bearings are used in:

• Automotive suspension and steering systems

• Industrial conveyor systems

• Pumps and valves

• Agricultural equipment

• Food processing equipment

Enhanced Formulations for Gears and Bearings

Specialized POM grades have been developed for demanding gear and bearing applications:

PTFE-Reinforced Grades
ALCOM® POM 770/1 PTFE1,5 is a POM copolymer reinforced with 1.5% PTFE, recommended for gear wheels, roller bearings, functional components, and sliding elements.

Glass Fiber and PTFE Combinations
Grades with 20% glass fiber and 15% PTFE reinforcement offer improved sliding/wear and heat-aging stabilization for demanding automotive and machinery applications.

Internally Lubricated Grades
Pomalux WRX offers enhanced wear and abrasion resistance with lower coefficients of friction, formulated with permanent lubricant.

Technical Considerations

Load Capacity
POM gears and bearings can handle significant loads, though design must account for material limitations compared to metals.

Temperature Range
POM components operate effectively from -40°C to 90°C (or higher for specialized grades).

Environmental Resistance
POM resists many chemicals and performs well in humid environments, unlike some competing materials.

Design Optimization

Successful POM gear and bearing design requires:

• Proper tooth geometry for gears

• Adequate wall thickness for bearings

• Consideration of thermal expansion

• Appropriate tolerances for assembly

Market Trends

The POM gears and bearings market is growing, driven by:

• Increasing automation across industries

• Growth in electric vehicle production

• Demand for maintenance-free components

• Focus on weight reduction

Cost Advantages

Compared to metal alternatives, POM gears and bearings offer:

• Lower material costs

• Reduced manufacturing costs (injection molding vs. machining)

• Elimination of lubrication systems

• Longer service life in many applications

• Significant weight savings

Future Developments

Research continues to enhance POM's performance in gear and bearing applications. Innovations in additive technologies, including microcapsule-filled grades, promise further improvements in friction and wear performance.

Learn more about the POM market outlook

• zero liquid discharge system market
• europe graphite market
• exterior architectural coating market