Nylon PA12 (Polyamide 12)
The most widely used polymer in industrial 3D printing. PA12 offers an excellent balance of strength, flexibility, and chemical resistance — the default choice for functional prototypes and low-to-mid volume production parts.
About Nylon PA12 (Polyamide 12)
Polyamide 12 (PA12) is the workhorse polymer of industrial additive manufacturing. Processed primarily via Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) and Multi Jet Fusion (MJF), it produces self-supporting parts that require no support structures — enabling complex assemblies, living hinges, and internal channels.
PA12 delivers tensile strengths of 48–50 MPa with elongation at break of 15–25%, providing a practical balance of strength and ductility for functional applications. The material is resistant to most chemicals, fuels, and solvents, making it suitable for automotive under-bonnet components, fluid handling parts, and industrial fixtures.
MJF-produced PA12 (HP branded as "PA 12") offers isotropic properties and finer surface finish than SLS, while SLS provides a wider range of powder suppliers and machine platforms.
Typical Applications
- Functional prototypes and end-use parts
- Automotive clips, ducts, and housings
- Snap-fit assemblies and living hinges
- Fluid connectors and manifolds
- Jigs, fixtures, and manufacturing aids
- Consumer products and enclosures
Engineering Considerations
- Absorbs moisture (1.2–1.8%) — dimensional stability can vary with humidity
- UV stability is limited without additives — not ideal for prolonged outdoor exposure
- SLS/MJF parts have grainy surface finish — may require dyeing or coating for cosmetic applications
- Refresh ratio (new:recycled powder) affects mechanical properties — 50:50 is typical