Torlon Machined Parts
Torlon (polyamide-imide, PAI) is the highest-strength unreinforced plastic available for machined parts at elevated temperatures — outperforming PEEK in compressive strength and load-bearing capability at temperatures up to 500°F (260°C) continuous. For precision bushings, thrust washers, seal rings, and structural components that must carry real mechanical loads in hot, aggressive environments, Torlon is often the material specification that PEEK cannot satisfy.
Federal Materials machines Torlon 4203 (unfilled), 4301 (bearing grade), and 5030 (glass/graphite-filled) grades to customer prints. Our machined Torlon parts are used in aerospace actuation systems, oil and gas downhole tools, automotive transmission components, and semiconductor processing equipment.
Note: Torlon = PAI (polyamide-imide). These terms refer to the same material chemistry; Torlon is the Solvay trade name.
Get a quote on
Request a Quote →What We Machine in Torlon
- Bushings and plain bearings — 4301 bearing grade; dry-run to 500°F
- Thrust washers — high compressive load at elevated temperature
- Seal rings and piston rings — reciprocating compressor and pump service
- Valve components — seats, plugs, poppets for chemical and high-temperature service
- Structural brackets and housings — metal-replacement in high-temperature assemblies
- Wear pads and guides — glass/graphite-filled for sliding contact applications
- Aerospace and defense components — AS9100-traceable material documentation available
- Custom prototypes and short runs — from rod and plate stock
Typical Tolerances
| Dimension type | Production tolerance |
|---|---|
| Critical turned dims (OD/ID) | ±0.0005" |
| General machined dims | ±0.002" |
| Hole location (CNC milled) | ±0.002" |
| Surface finish | 32–63 µin Ra standard; finer on request |
Torlon requires careful thermal management during machining — our toolpaths and feeds are optimized for PAI to prevent surface crazing or thermal damage. Parts are inspected after a temperature stabilization period.
Grade Selection
| Grade | Filler | Key advantage |
|---|---|---|
| 4203 | Unfilled | Best electrical insulation; highest elongation |
| 4301 | 3% MoS₂ + 18% graphite | Bearing and wear grade; self-lubricating |
| 5030 | 30% glass + graphite | Highest stiffness; structural applications |
4301 is the most common grade for bushings and washers. 5030 for structural parts under sustained load. 4203 where dielectric performance matters.
Finish Options
| Finish | Description |
|---|---|
| As-machined | Natural Torlon surface — tan/dark amber, deburred, edges broken |
| Polished bores | Honed to 16 µin Ra for precision bearing fits |
| No surface coating | Torlon does not require plating, passivation, or post-treatment |
Torlon is sensitive to strong alkalis and concentrated acids. Do not apply caustic cleaning processes post-machining.
Standard Turnaround
| Stage | Lead time |
|---|---|
| Quote response | Same business day |
| Prototype / first article (1–5 pcs) | 3–7 business days |
| Short run (6–25 pcs) | 7–14 business days |
| Production run (25+ pcs) | 14–21 business days |
Torlon 4203 and 4301 are stocked in common rod sizes. 5030 and larger plates confirmed at quoting. Curing and stress-relieving of machined parts is included for close-tolerance applications.
Materials We Stock (Torlon Stock Shapes)
| Form | Grade | Sizes |
|---|---|---|
| Rod | 4203 | ½" – 6" diameter |
| Rod | 4301 | ½" – 4" diameter |
| Plate | 4203 | 0.500" – 3.000" thick |
| Plate | 5030 | 0.500" – 2.000" thick |
Extruded and compression-molded stock available. Compression-molded (CM) stock is preferred for close-tolerance work due to superior homogeneity.
Quality & Inspection
- Dimensional inspection — in-process and final to print; CMM first-article available
- Material certification — Solvay-traceable C of C, grade and lot
- Post-machine thermal stabilization — stress-relief cycle documented for close-tolerance parts
- Visual inspection — surface crazing, porosity, surface finish
- AS9100 / aerospace documentation — available on request for defense and aerospace applications
Get a quote on
Request a Quote →More Related Guides
- Vespel Machined Parts — polyimide for even higher temperature limits
- PEEK Machined Parts — high-performance PAEK thermoplastic
- Teflon Machined Parts — PTFE for chemical resistance
- Custom Machined Standoffs
- CNC Turning Thermoset Rod