Cast nylon is a plastic that should not be overlooked in sawmill applications. Nylon is able to bear a large amount of load compared to other plastics, especially UHMW and PTFE but is readily available and reasonably priced. Nylon applications have actually been increasing in the mills over the years, one notable example is nylon sharp chain bed. These beds used to often be made of UHMW but nylon and specifically the higher grades of nylon such as Redco™ PVM nylon perform much better. Nylon can be easily machined and Redco™ nylon in particular is available in small quantities and in uncommon grades. Applications for nylon in the mills include:
-Sprockets
-Chain bed
-Bushings
-Bearings (including hanger bearings)