Machining Delrin®, Acetal and Polyoxymethylene (POM)

At JACO Machine Works, we machine Delrin® for a wide range of precision components requiring high stiffness, low friction, and excellent dimensional stability. Delrin® - also known as Polyoxymethylene (POM) and Acetal - is sold under many brand names such as Duracon® and Celcon®. Let’s understand the differences:

Delrin®: Trade name for the homopolymer version of Polyoxymethylene (POM) by DuPont. Known for high mechanical strength, stiffness, and superior dimensional stability.
POM (Polyoxymethylene): Chemical name for the polymer, including both homopolymer and copolymer forms. Known for high strength, rigidity, and excellent wear resistance.
Acetal: General term for POM, available as homopolymer and copolymer.
- Duracon®: A registered trademark of Polyplastics Co., Duracon is an acetal copolymer. Offers excellent chemical resistance, low water absorption, and good dimensional stability.
- Celcon®: A registered trademark of Celanese, Celcon and Hostaform® are brand names for acetal copolymer. Valued for its outstanding wear and slip properties, long-term fatigue, and resistance to moisture, solvents and strong alkalis.

Commonly used in a wide range of applications, Delrin® and Acetal resins offer a unique combination of physical properties not found in other metals or plastics. High in strength, toughness, and resistant to most chemicals and solvents, the reliability and cost benefits of these resins make them ideal for use in demanding environments or mechanical applications.

Attributes and Properties

Impressive mechanical strength and stiffness
Excellent dimensional stability and machinability
Resistance to moisture, solvents, gasolines and other neutral chemicals
Ability to withstand low temperatures (down to -40oC)
High fatigue, impact and creep resistance
Self-lubricating for bearing and wear surfaces
Great electrical insulating characteristics
Natural grade is FDA, NSF and USDA compliant
Reduced weight and operational noise when compared to metals
Avoids corrosion and rust problems when used as a metal replacement

Industrial Applications

Medical: Delrin® and POM are frequently used for medical devices, implants, and surgical instruments requiring high stiffness and low friction, such as insulin pens and metered dose inhalers. These plastics are also utilized in valves, pumps, syringes, and diagnostic equipment for its strength, chemical resistance, and ability to withstand sterilization.

Aerospace and Defense: Delrin® and Acetal are ideal plastics for making components like gears, bearings, and fasteners that require high mechanical strength and excellent wear resistance. POM is also employed in fuel system parts, connectors, and structural components due to its stability, electrical insulation, and flame resistance.

Sensor Devices: Delrin® and Acetal are frequently used for sensor components that require low friction and high dimensional stability, such as gas and liquid flow sensors and pressure sensors. Meanwhile, POM is suitable for manufacturing sensor components that need high strength and wear resistance, including ultrasonic liquid level sensors and force sensors.

Electrical Connectors: Delrin® and Acetal are employed in electrical connectors and insulators for its excellent electrical insulating properties, high dimensional stability and resistance to various moisture and chemicals.

Biotech Life Sciences: Acetal and Delrin are utilized in laboratory equipment and bioprocessing components due to their chemical resistance and durability. Due to their low friction and high dimensional stability, these grades of plastic are particularly ideal for fluid handling systems.

Machining Plastic at JACO

If you’re developing plastic machined components and wish to know more about their machinability, JACO Machine Works is ready to review your program and offer support. No matter your application, our skilled engineers and operations professionals are dedicated to helping you succeed. We are pleased to offer the following machining services for your next project:

Black Delrin Medical Part

Black Delrin Camera Knob