Is the engineering plastic polyamide self-lubricating?

The self-lubricating property of engineering plastic polyamide (nylon) is one of its core advantages, which is manifested as follows:

Molecular structural characteristics
The amide group (- NHCO -) in the polyamide molecular chain has polarity and strong intermolecular forces, but the molecular chain itself can produce microscopic slip during friction, forming a natural lubricating layer.

Optimization of friction coefficient
When the material surface is rubbed against metal, the friction coefficient is significantly lower than that of most engineering plastics, especially under low-speed and medium load conditions, which can reduce the "stick slip effect" (crawling phenomenon) and ensure smooth transmission.

Synergistic effect of additives
By adding solid lubricants such as molybdenum disulfide, graphite, or polytetrafluoroethylene particles, a transfer film is formed at the friction interface to further block direct contact and reduce wear rate.

Micro melting layer protection mechanism
The local frictional heat generated by gear meshing will cause micro melting of the polyamide surface, forming a dynamic repair layer that covers the surface of the metal counterpart and achieves continuous self-healing lubrication.

Oil free operation capability
In dusty environments (such as food machinery, textile equipment) or oil free scenarios (medical instruments, semiconductor equipment), it can operate stably for a long time without the need for external grease, avoiding oil pollution.

Reuse of Wear Products
The trace amount of debris generated during operation can fill the micro pits on the tooth surface, forming a dense friction layer, which in turn enhances the lubrication effect during later operation.