• Delrin is a polymer consisting of long molecules linked together.plastic stars image by John Sfondilias from Fotolia.com
  
  Delrin was invented in the 1950s and is the first acetal-based polymer resin. While it is less flexible and more brittle than many other plastics, these and other characteristics make it the single choice for applications where plastic parts have to be machined and cannot be molded.
  
  

Strength and Rigidity

• Delrin can be machined to exacting specifications.gear image by dip from Fotolia.com
  
  Delrin, also known as polyoxymethylene, is an acetal polymer that is more rigid than common plastics. The rigidity allows it to be machined like wood or metal to more exacting specifications. More flexible plastics tend to deform or shred when drilled, lathed or sanded. Delrin is more dimensionally stable than most plastics and can be formed into more exact shapes. Delrin is also easier to machine than metal, making it a good choice for less-expensive and faster-to-delivery prototypes.
  
  

Resistance to Degradation

• Delrin is used in items such as guitar picks and electrical components.guitar picks and cable image by Yasen Pramatarov from Fotolia.com
  
  Delrin and parts made from Delrin can be used in applications that are exposed to different chemicals and solvents. Gasoline and other organic solvents do not degrade Delrin. Delrin is also resistant to exposure to water or moisture. Delrin is resistant to wear and can be used for bushings, gears, fuel system components and machinery that is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
  
  

Performance

• Parts molded or machined from Delrin are often mated with metal surfaces or parts. Delrin has a natural lubricity that prolongs the life of both the Delrin part and the mated metal part and may not require excessive lubrication for full functionality. Delrin's dimensional stability keeps parts from deforming under load or "creeping" with age. Delrin is useful across a broad range of temperatures and has good electrical insulating properties.