PAI / Torlon® CNC Machining Services
PlasticCNCPro is a Dongguan, China-based manufacturer specializing in precision CNC machining of plastics and engineering polymers. We help global OEMs, equipment makers, and engineering teams turn drawings and 3D models into reliable PAI/Torlon parts for prototypes, low-volume production, and repeat manufacturing.
PAI (polyamide-imide), commonly known by Solvay's brand Torlon®, is one of the highest-performing thermoplastics for machined components. It offers exceptional strength and dimensional stability at elevated temperatures, outstanding wear performance, and broad chemical resistance—making it ideal for demanding industrial applications.
Why Choose PAI/Torlon for Machined Parts
Torlon® PAI delivers a unique combination of performance properties unmatched by most engineering thermoplastics.
High Temperature Capability
Excellent mechanical strength retention at elevated temperatures; suitable for continuous high-heat environments depending on grade.
Dimensional Stability
Very low thermal expansion and creep; maintains tolerances under load and heat for reliable long-term performance.
Wear and Friction Performance
Bearing and wear grades with PTFE/graphite or fiber reinforcement for low friction and high PV limits in demanding sliding applications.
Chemical Resistance
Resists many oils, fuels, solvents, and industrial chemicals, making it suitable for harsh chemical processing environments.
Electrical Properties
Good dielectric strength and insulation stability for electrical and semiconductor applications requiring reliable performance.
Strength and Rigidity
Superior stiffness and compressive strength versus most engineering plastics, enabling thinner walls and lighter components.
Torlon® is a registered trademark of Solvay. We machine genuine Torlon PAI sourced through authorized distributors and provide material traceability upon request.
Our PAI/Torlon CNC Machining Expertise
We focus exclusively on CNC-machined plastics, combining process know-how with material-specific practices for PAI/Torlon.
- Machining processes: CNC milling, CNC turning, drilling, tapping, threading, counterboring, countersinking, pocketing, slotting, profiling, and precision finishing
- Prototypes to production: 1-off prototypes, engineering samples, small batches, and repeat production
- Material handling: Controlled drying, annealing/stress-relief, and moisture management to maintain dimensional accuracy
- Tooling approach: Sharp, rigid workholding and tooling selection for unfilled and reinforced PAI grades; optimized feeds/speeds for surface integrity and flatness
- Design support: Recommendations on wall thickness, fillets, threads, tolerances, inserts, and inspection methodology for stable outcomes
- Inspection: Dimensional, visual, and functional inspection tailored to your drawing and critical-to-quality features; quality documentation available
PAI/Torlon Grades We Work With
We machine a wide range of PAI/Torlon grades to meet diverse application requirements.
Torlon 4203
Unfilled general-purpose grade with good strength, impact, and electrical properties. Ideal for structural and insulating components.
Torlon 4301
Bearing-grade with PTFE/graphite. Reduced friction and wear for sliding components, bushings, and seal rings.
Torlon 5030
Carbon-fiber reinforced for high stiffness and strength, plus improved thermal conductivity. Suitable for structural and thermal management applications.
Torlon 7130
Glass-fiber reinforced for high modulus and dimensional stability under load. Excellent for precision fixtures and locating features.
If you have a specified grade, include it in your RFQ. If not, we can recommend a grade based on temperature, load, wear, electrical, and chemical requirements.
Typical Tolerances and Surface Finish
Actual tolerances depend on geometry, size, grade, and inspection conditions.
| Parameter | Typical Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General dimensional | ±0.10 mm | Standard capability |
| Precision features | ±0.05 mm | Achievable on many geometries |
| Tight features (small parts) | ±0.02 mm | Case-by-case with drying/annealing/fixturing |
| Flatness / roundness | 0.03–0.10 mm | Depending on size and grade |
| Surface roughness | Ra 1.6–3.2 μm | Standard finish |
| Fine surface finish | Ra ~0.8 μm | Possible with fine finishing on select features |
Because PAI is hygroscopic, we recommend specifying inspection conditions (temperature and relative humidity) and controlling moisture exposure pre-inspection for very tight tolerances.
Design and Machinability Guidelines for PAI/Torlon
Optimize your part design for reliable, cost-effective machining of PAI/Torlon.
Drying and moisture
Pre-dry material and parts before tight-tolerance finishing; store and ship in moisture-barrier packaging with desiccant.
Stress relief
Anneal between roughing and finishing for complex or tight-tolerance parts to maintain dimensional stability.
Geometry
Add internal corner radii (≥0.5–1.0 mm where possible) to improve stability and reduce stress. Maintain uniform wall thickness; avoid very thin sections if not essential. Provide generous lead-ins/chamfers for wear parts and sliding fits.
Threads
Prefer thread milling for accuracy; avoid very fine-pitch internal threads in plastics. Use metal inserts (helicoils/solid inserts) for repeated assembly or high load. Engagement length ~1.0–1.5× diameter is typical.
RFQ Support
Send Your Drawing for a Quote
Share your 2D drawing, 3D model, material, quantity, tolerance, surface finish, and application details. Our team will review manufacturability and reply with a practical quotation.
Email: info@plasticcncpro.com
Address: 29 Fuxing Road, Dongguan City, Guangdong Province, China
RFQ Support
Send Your Drawing for a Quote
Share your 2D drawing, 3D model, material, quantity, tolerance, surface finish, and application details. Our team will review manufacturability and reply with a practical quotation.
Email: info@plasticcncpro.com
Address: 29 Fuxing Road, Dongguan City, Guangdong Province, China