MAINTAINING MATERIAL EXCELLENCE

Polyamide is widely used in electrical and electronic applications thanks to its excellent mechanical and physical properties over a wide temperature range and its high weather resistance. These characteristics make it suitable for demanding indoor and outdoor applications.

 

As a hygroscopic material, polyamide absorbs moisture in molecular form into the plastic matrix. As the moisture content increases, product properties may change slightly, for example by displaying increased toughness and lower rigidity.

 

Under standard climate conditions (23 °C / 50% relative humidity), the typical moisture content is:

 

Material / Moisture content

Polyamide 6 / 2–3% by weight

Polyamide 12 / 0.8–1.2% by weight

 

To maintain a balanced moisture content, PMA recommends storing products under the following conditions:

  • Storage temperature : 18–30 °C
  • Processing temperature : >18 °C 
  • Relative humidity : >30% RH

At lower processing temperatures, and particularly after unnatural drying, corrugated pipes display increased flexural rigidity.

 

During very dry winter months, the moisture balance may decrease slightly as the material releases moisture to the environment due to lower relative humidity.

 

Compared to natural outdoor conditions* at around 0 °C (40–80% RH), the humidity in heated rooms may fall below 20% RH if no humidification is present. Even extremely dry regions such as the Sahara Desert record average humidity levels between 20% and 60% RH.

 

If products stored outdoors are brought into a heated processing area, the change in climate may temporarily cause demoisturization around the edges. After one or two days, the natural moisture balance is restored. Most PMA products have been modified to make them immune to climate changes of this kind.

 

Following these storage recommendations ensures optimum processability and material properties.

 

*Central European climate.

  

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