Understanding the Torlon design

November 16th, 2009 by callister

In everyday life, we might use something but we never knew the details about it. I would like to introduce you to something that I learn during my study in the university, in my chemical class. We learned about something called Polyimide Sheet. Polymides are formulated as both thermosets and thermoplastics. It is widely used in machines and electrical appliances.

One of the patented polymides is Torlon. Torlon is a high strength plastic with the highest strength and stiffness of any thermoplastic up to 275 Celcius. It has a highly resistance to wear, creep and chemicals, including strong acidic liquids and organics and really suitable for all condition wears especially in severe service environments.It’s usually used in aircrafts, mechanical components, coatings, gears, seals, thrust washers and many others.

Another material that is in the same case with Torlon is called Arlon. Arlon is also a tough, high temperature, thermoplastic and a unique combination of  mechanical, thermal, chemical and electrical properties. Several proprietary  manufacturers are working really hard in ensuring Arlon is beating their competitors. Arlon is said to have a competitive edge with torlon bearning.