Polysulfone Design Guide PDF

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5/25/07
10:58 AM
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Health and Safety Information

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for products of Solvay Advanced Polymers are available upon
request from your sales representative or by e-mailing us at advancedpolymers@solvay.com.
Always consult the appropriate MSDS before using any of our products.
To our actual knowledge, the information contained herein is accurate as of the date of this document. However, neither Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC nor any of its affiliates makes any warranty,
express or implied, or accepts any liability in connection with this information or its use. This information is for use by technically skilled persons at their own discretion and risk and does not relate
to the use of this product in combination with any other substance or any other process. This is not
a license under any patent or other proprietary right. The user alone must finally determine suitability
of any information or material for any contemplated use, the manner of use and whether any
patents are infringed. This information gives typical properties only and is not to be used for specification purposes. Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC reserves the right to make additions, deletions,
or modifications to the information at any time without prior notification.
Udel is a registered trademark of Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC

U-50244 2002 Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC. All rights reserved. D03/07
MORE PLASTICS WITH MORE PERFORMANCE
www.solvayadvancedpolymers.com
UDEL
KetaSpire AvaSpire PrimoSpire EpiSpire

Amodel Ixef Xydar Primef Torlon
Udel Radel R Radel A Acudel Mindel
For additional product information, please visit

our website. For inquiries, please e-mail us at
advancedpolymers @ solvay.com or contact the
office nearest you.
design guide
version 2.1
North America
Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC
Alpharetta, GA USA
Phone 800.621.4557 (USA only)
+1.770.772.8200
South America
Solvay Quimica Ltda
San Paulo, Brazil
Phone +55.11.3708.5272
Europe
Solvay Advanced Polymers GmbH
Duesseldorf, Germany
Phone +49.211.5135.9000
Japan
Solvay Advanced Polymers, KK
Tokyo, Japan
Phone +81.3.5210.5570
South Korea
Solvay Korea Company, Ltd
Seoul, South Korea
Phone +82.2.756.0355
China
Solvay Shanghai Company, Ltd
Shanghai, China
Phone +86.21.5080.5080
India
Solvay Specialities India Private Ltd
Prabhadevi, Mumbai India
Phone +91.22.243.72646
SOLVAY
Advanced Polymers
polysulfone
Solvay Gives You

More Plastics with More Performance
than Any Other Company in the World
With over a dozen distinct families of high-performance and
ultra-performance plastics, Solvay Advanced Polymers gives
you more material choices to more perfectly match your application needs. Plus, we give you more global support for developing smart new designs.
We offer hundreds of product formulations including modified
and reinforced resins to help you tailor a solution to meet
your precise requirements. From physical properties and
processability, to appearance and agency approvals our plastics deliver more solutions.
Our semi-crystalline aromatic polyamides:

Amodel polyphthalamide (PPA)
Ixef polyarylamide (PA MXD6)
Additional semi-crystalline polymers:

Primef polyphenylene sulfide (PPS)
Xydar liquid crystal polymer (LCP)
Our SolvaSpire family of ultra polymers:

KetaSpire polyetheretherketone (PEEK)
AvaSpire modified PEEK
Our family of amorphous sulfone polymers:
PrimoSpire self-reinforced polyphenylene (SRP)
Udel polysulfone (PSU)
(1)
EpiSpire high-temperature sulfone (HTS)
Mindel modified polysulfone
Torlon polyamide-imide (PAI)
Radel R polyphenylsulfone (PPSU)
(1)
Formerly Parmax SRP by Mississippi Polymer Technologies, Inc., a company acquired

by Solvay Advanced Polymers.
Radel A polyethersulfone (PESU)
Acudel modified polyphenylsulfone
mers
opoly
Fluor
LCP XD6
PA M P PA
ides
,
P P S lty Polyam
ia
Spec
COC
ABS,
, PPC
, PC,
PV
PMM PUR, PDC
A, PE
P
X, XL O
PE
PET
6,6
PBT, PA 6, PA HMW
,
M
O
P
, PE U
V
P
T
TPO,
Table of Contents
Udel polysulfone resins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Chemistry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Chemical Structure - Property Relationships. . . . . . . . . . 1
Product Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Material Selection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Nomenclature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Packaging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Approvals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Drinking Water Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Food Contact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Medical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
NSF International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Underwriters Laboratories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Specific Grade Listings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Property Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Mechanical Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Typical Property Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Tensile Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Stress-Strain Curves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Flexural Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Compressive Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Shear Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Impact Properties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Notched Izod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Notch Sensitivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Charpy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Tensile Impact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Falling Dart Impact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Poissons Ratio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Long-Term Creep Properties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Tensile Creep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Tensile Creep in Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Apparent or Creep Modulus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Thermal Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Glass Transition Temperature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Mechanical Property Changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Classification of Thermoplastic Resins. . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Temperature Effects on Tensile Properties . . . . . . . . . 18
Temperature Effects on Flexural Properties . . . . . . . . 18
Deflection Temperature under Load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Thermal Expansion Coefficient . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Thermal Conductivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Vicat Softening Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Specific Heat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Specific Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Combustion Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
UL 94 Flammability Standard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Oxygen Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Auto-Ignition Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Flash Ignition Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Smoke Density . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Glow Wire Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Thermal Stability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Thermogravimetric Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Thermal Aging. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
UL Relative Thermal Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Electrical Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Dielectric Strength . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Volume Resistivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Surface Resistivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Dielectric Constant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Dissipation Factor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Relative Thermal Index 27
UL 746A Short-Term Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
High-Voltage, Low-Current Dry Arc Resistance (D495)27
Comparative Tracking Index (CTI). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
High-Voltage Arc-Tracking-Rate (HVTR) . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Hot Wire Ignition (HWI). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
High-Current Arc Ignition (HAI). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Environmental Resistance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Weathering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Hydrolytic Stability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Long-Term Exposure to Hot Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Hot Chlorinated Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Steam Sterilization Analysis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Radiation Resistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Chemical Resistance (Unstressed) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Stress Cracking Resistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Organic chemicals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Inorganic chemicals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Automotive Fluids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Foods and Related Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Physical Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Water Absorption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Wear resistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Abrasion Resistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Permeability. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Rockwell Hardness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Optical Properties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Design Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Mechanical Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Stress Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Stress-Strain Calculations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Bending Stress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Tensile Stress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Designing for Stiffness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Increasing Section Thickness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Adding Ribs to Maintain Stiffness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Designing for Sustained Load. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Calculating Deflection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Design Limits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Stress Concentrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Threads. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Interference Fits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Calculating the Allowable Interference. . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Designing for Injection Molding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Wall Thickness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Wall Thickness Variation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Draft Angle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Ribs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Coring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Bosses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Snap-Fits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Fabrication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Drying . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Rheology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Injection Molding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Injection Molding Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Screw Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Screw Tips and Check Valves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Nozzles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Molds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Draft and Ejection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Gates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Venting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Mold Temperature Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Machine Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Injection Molding Temperatures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Mold Temperatures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Barrel Temperatures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Residence Time in the Barrel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Molding Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Feed Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Back Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Screw Speed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Injection Rate and Venting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Demolding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Mold Releases. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Shrinkage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Troubleshooting Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Regrind . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Measuring Residual Stress. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Extrusion Blow Molding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Drying . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Process Conditions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Extrusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Predrying . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Extrusion Temperatures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Screw Design Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Die Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Extruded Product Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Wire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Film. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Pipe and Tubing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Start-Up, Shut-Down, and Purging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Start-Up Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Shut-Down Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Purging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Thermoforming. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Compression Molding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Secondary Operations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Cleaning and degreasing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Annealing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Processing for Low Residual Stress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Annealing in Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Rapid Annealing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Machining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Coolants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Drilling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Tapping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Sawing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Turning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Milling and Routing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Finishing and Decorating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Electroplating. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Hot Stamping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Vacuum Metallizing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Assembly and Joining. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Ultrasonic Bonding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Hot Plate Welding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Solvent Bonding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Spin Welding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Adhesive Bonding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Mechanical Fasteners. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Molded-In Threads. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Threaded Inserts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Self-Tapping Screws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Ultrasonic Inserts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
List of Tables
Temperature Limits of Some Engineering Materials . . . . . . . . . 2
Weight Change in Flowing Chlorinated Water . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Typical Properties* of Udel Polysulfone (U.S. Units) . . . . . . . . . 5
Property Retention after Steam Autoclave Exposure. . . . . . . . 32
Typical Properties* of Udel Resins ( SI Units) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Gamma Radiation Resistance of Udel Polysulfone . . . . . . . . . 33
Compressive Properties of Udel Polysulfone . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
General Indication of Polysulfone Chemical Resistance . . . . . . . 33
Shear Strength of Udel Polysulfone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Poissons Ratio of Udel Polysulfone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Chemical Resistance of Udel P-1700 Resin by Immersion for 7

Days at Room Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Coefficient of Linear Thermal Expansion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Calculated Stresses for Strained ESCR Test Bars . . . . . . . . . 35
Thermal Conductivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Key to Environmental Stress Cracking Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Vicat Softening Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Environmental Stress Cracking Resistance to Organic Chemicals

after 24-Hour Exposure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Specific Volume (cm3/g) of PSU as a Function of Temperature

and Pressure in the Liquid Phase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
UL Criteria for
Classifying Materials V-0, V-1, or V-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
UL 94 Ratings for Udel Polysulfone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Oxygen Indices of Udel Resin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Smoke Density of Udel Polysulfone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Glow Wire Results for Glass-Filled Polysulfone. . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Selected UL RTI Ratings for Udel Polysulfone. . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
High-Voltage, Low-Current, Dry Arc Resistance
Performance Level Categories (PLC). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Comparative Tracking Index
Performance Level Categories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Environmental Stress Cracking Resistance to Inorganic Chemicals after 24-Hour Exposure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Environmental Stress Cracking Resistance to Automotive Fluids
after 24-Hour Exposure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Environmental Stress Cracking Resistance to Food Related Products after 24-Hour Exposure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Permeability of Udel Polysulfone to Various Gases . . . . . . . . . 40
Optical Properties of Udel P-1700 NT11 Polysulfone . . . . . . . 42
Wavelength Dependent Properties of Udel P-1700 NT11 . . . . 42
Maximum Stress and Deflection Equations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Area and Moment Equations for Selected Cross Sections . . . 45
Allowable Design Stress for Intermittent Load, psi (MPa) . . . . . . . 48
High-Voltage Arc-Tracking-Rate
Allowable Design Stress for Constant Load, psi (MPa) . . . . . . 48
Hot Wire Ignition Performance Level Categories. . . . . . . . . . . 28
Starting Point Molding Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
High-Current Arc Ignition

Properties of Udel P-1700 After 4 Moldings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Short-Term Electrical Properties per UL 746A . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Annealing Time in Glycerine at 330F (166C). . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Weight Change in Static Chlorinated Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Maximum Permissible Strains for Snap-Fit Designs. . . . . . . . 53
Reagents for Residual Stress Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
List of Figures
Typical Stress-Strain Curve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Thermogravimetric Analysis in Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Stress-Strain Curve Insert

Secant vs. Tangent Modulus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Tensile Strength of Udel P-1700 after Heat Aging . . . . . . . . . 26
Glass Fiber Increases Tensile Strength. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Tensile Strength After 194F (90C) Water Exposure . . . . . . . 30
Glass Fiber increases Stiffness of Udel Polysulfone . . . . . . . . . 8
Tensile Elongation After 194F (90C) Water Exposure. . . . . . 31
Tensile Stress-Strain Curve for Udel Resins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Tensile Modulus After 194F (90C) Water Exposure . . . . . . . 31
Flexural Test Apparatus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Notched Izod Impact After 194F (90C) Water Exposure . . . . . . 31
Glass Fiber Increases Flexural Strength . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Weld Line Strength After 194F (90C) Water Exposure . . . . . . 31
Glass Fiber Increases Flexural Modulus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Water Absorption of Udel Polysulfone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Compressive Strength of Udel Resins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Rockwell Hardness, M Scale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Compressive Modulus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Light Transmittance of Udel P-1700 NT11 at Various Wavelengths and Thicknesses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Izod Impact Test Apparatus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Izod Impact of Udel Polysulfone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Izod impact of Udel P-1700 Polysulfone
at Various Notch Radii . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Tensile Strength of Udel GF-130 after Heat Aging . . . . . . . . . 26
Refractive Index Variation with Wavelength of

Udel P-1700 NT11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Adding Ribs to Achieve Stiffness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Charpy Impact Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Beam used in Sustained Load Example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Charpy Impact Strength of Udel Polysulfone . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Stress Concentration Factor for Inside Corners . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Tensile Impact of Udel Polysulfone. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Design Corners to Minimize Stress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Gardner Impact Detail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Proper Thread Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Tensile Creep of Udel PSU in Air at 210F (99C) . . . . . . . . . . 15
Press Fit Example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Tensile Creep of Udel PSU in Air at 300F (149C) . . . . . . . . . 15
Flow Distance Versus Thickness of Udel P-1700 PSU . . . . . 51
Tensile Creep of Udel PSU in Water at 73F (23C) . . . . . . . . 16
Wall Thickness Transition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Tensile Creep of Udel PSU in Water at 140F (60C) . . . . . . . 16
Using Draft to aid Mold Release. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Creep Modulus for Unfilled Udel Polysulfone . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Recommended Rib Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Typical Change in Modulus with Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Boss Design General Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Tensile Strength vs. Temperature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Snap-Fit Design Using Straight Beam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Tensile Modulus vs. Temperature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Snap-Fit Design Using Tapered Beam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Flexural Strength vs. Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Proportionality Constant (K) for Tapered Beam. . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Flexural Modulus vs. Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Drying Udel Polsulfone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Heat Deflection Temperatures of Udel Resins. . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Rheology of Udel P-1700 Resin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
CLTE vs. Temperature for Udel P-1700 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Rheology of Udel P-3500 Resin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
CLTE vs. Temperature for Udel GF-110 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Screw Design for Injection Molding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Energy Director Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Joint Designs for Adhesive Bonding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Specific Heat of Udel Polysulfone. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Designing for Mechanical Fasteners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Specific Volume of Udel Polysulfone

as a Function of Temperature and Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Boss Design for Self-Tapping Screws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Thermogravimetric Analysis in Nitrogen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Boss Design for Ultrasonic Inserts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Udel polysulfone resins

Udel polysulfone resins offer a superior combination of
high-performance properties that include:
1960s. The contributions of this group become evident upon

examination of its electronic characteristics. The sulfur atom (in
each group) is in its highest state of oxidation. Furthermore, the
sulfone group tends to draw electrons from the adjacent benzene rings, making them electron-deficient. Thermal stability is
also provided by the highly resonant structure of the
diphenylene sulfone group. This high degree of resonance
imparts high strength to the chemical bonds. Substances stable to oxidation strongly resist the tendency to lose their electrons to an oxidizer. It then follows that the entire diphenylene
sulfone group is inherently resistant to oxidation.
Excellent thermal stability

High toughness and strength
Good environmental stress cracking resistance
High heat deflection temperature, 345F (174C)
Combustion resistance
Transparency
Approved for food contact and potable water
Low creep.
Therefore, large amounts of incident energy in the form of heat

or ionizing radiation can be dissipated without chain scission or
crosslinking taking place. Non-aromatic-backbone polymers do
not similarly resonate, cannot absorb energy by this mechanism, and are therefore less stable.
This manual has been compiled to provide design engineers

with the necessary information to effectively use Udel
polysulfone. It contains the mechanical, thermal, and chemical
properties of these materials and recommendations for processing and part design.
The diphenylene sulfone group thus confers on the entire polymer molecule, as inherent characteristics, thermal stability, oxidation resistance, and rigidity, even at elevated temperatures.
Chemistry
Chemical Structure - Property Relationships
To take full advantage of the potentially available contributions

of the diphenylene sulfone structure in a thermoplastic resin,
these units must be linked with other groups, which are thermally and hydrolytically stable, and which will contribute desirable processing and end use properties.
Udel polysulfone is a rigid, strong, high-temperature

amorphous thermoplastic that can be molded, extruded, or
thermoformed into a wide variety of shapes.
Udel polysulfone has the following repeating structure or basic
unit:
CH3
Some flexibility in the backbone of the polymer is desired to

impart toughness. This is provided by the ether linkage and
moderately augmented by the isopropylidene link. These ether
linkages also add to the thermal stability. Similarly, both the
ether and isopropylidene linkages impart some chain flexibility,
making the material more easily processable at practical
temperatures.
O
O
CH3
N=50-80
The chemical structure of polysulfone is thus directly responsible for an excellent combination of properties that are inherent
in the resins even without the addition of modifiers.
Polysulfone is rigid, strong, and tough. It is transparent in its
natural form and maintains its physical and electrical properties over a broad temperature range. Its melt stability permits
fabrication by conventional thermoplastic processing and fabrication techniques. It is resistant to oxidation and thermally stable, and therefore, can tolerate high use temperatures for long
periods of time.
This structural unit is composed of phenylene units linked by

three different chemical groups isopropylidene, ether, and
sulfone each contributing specific properties to the polymer.
The complex repeating structure imparts inherent properties to
the polymer that conventionally are gained only by the use of
stabilizers or other modifiers.
The most distinctive feature of the backbone chain is the
diphenylene sulfone group:
O
S
O
diphenylene sulfone
The influence of diphenylene sulfone on the properties of resins

has been the subject of intense investigation since the early
Chemistry
Solvay Advanced Polymers
Product Information
Material Selection
Nomenclature
Udel resins are amorphous sulfone polymers and offer many

desirable characteristics, such as resistance to hydrolysis, thermal stability, retention of mechanical properties at elevated
temperatures, clarity, and transparency.
This material is available in both unfilled grades and
glass-reinforced grades. The unfilled grades are available in a
range of melt viscosities.
Udel polysulfone is indicated when higher thermal capability,
inherent flame resistance, better chemical resistance, and
improved mechanical properties are required. The recommended maximum service temperature shown in Table 1 may
help you position polysulfone among other engineering
materials.
Regarding glass-reinforced resin nomenclature, the last two

digits of the numeric string following the GF prefix indicate the
proportion by weight of glass-fiber reinforcement in the product. Udel GF-120, for example, represents a 20 percent
glass-fiber reinforced polysulfone resin.
A variety of stock and made-to-order colored Udel resins are
available. Colors are designated with a suffix format of YY XXX
where YY is the color indicator and XXX is a numeric string
indicating a specific shade. For example, BK 937 indicates a
resin that is black and 937 indicates a specific formulation.
Table 1
Temperature Limits of Some Engineering Materials

Maximum Service Temperature
Engineering Material
Phenolic - general purpose
300-350
149-177
Polysulfone
284-320
140-160
Polycarbonate
250
121
Zinc die casting alloy
250
121
200-220
93-104
Modified polyphenylene oxide

Polypropylene
225
107
Polyamides
170-240
77-116
Polyacetal
185-220
85-104
The nomenclature system for Udel resins uses the prefix P to

designate grades without reinforcement. Glass-fiber-reinforced
grades are designated with the prefix GF. The numerical string
following the P is an indication of melt viscosity (molecular
weight), with P-3500 being the most viscous commercially
available grade. P-3500 is well suited for extrusion and
microporous membranes. P-1700 is a mid-range viscosity
material designed primarily for injection molding applications.
Packaging
Udel polysulfone is available as free flowing pellets packaged
in either 25 kg (55.115 lb.) bags or 500 kg (1,100 lb.) lined
boxes.
Superior thermal, mechanical, and chemical resistance properties relative to more conventional resins, have shown Udel
polysulfone to be the best solution in many applications. These
applications include: medical devices, electronics, electrical
devices, appliances, plumbing, and general processing equipment. Please visit our web site at
http://www.solvayadvancedpolymers.com for additional examples of Udel polysulfone applications.
The glass-reinforced grades offer higher stiffness and dimensional stability, with attendant benefits in creep resistance,
chemical resistance, and lower thermal expansion.
Udel polysulfone can be matched to a wide range of both
transparent and opaque colors.
Udel Polysulfone Design Guide
Material Selection
Approvals
A number of organizations and standards have been established throughout the world to ensure that materials that are
used in direct contact with drinking water and foodstuffs do not
result in adverse health effects. Many of these organizations,
through inspection and other means of oversight, help to
assure the continued compliance of listed products to the specific requirements of the standards that they were tested
against. These standards include:
Drinking Water Standards
Medical
United States Pharmacopeia (U.S.P.) - In compliance with
U.S.P. criteria for a Class VI Plastic.
NSF International
Products approved for use under NSF standards can be found
at the NSF web site: http://www.NSF.org.
Underwriters Laboratories
ANSI/NSF Standard 61 - Drinking Water System Compo-
Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) is an independent,

not-for-profit product safety testing and certification organization. Several grades of Udel polysulfone are listed by Underwriters Laboratories. A detailed listing can be found on their
web site at http://data.ul.com/iqlink/index.asp.
nent - Health Effects.

Water Regulations Advisory Scheme - Items Which Have
Passed Full Test of Effect on Water Quality - BS6920.
Kunststoff Trinkwasser Empfenhlungen (KTW) - German
Federal Health Office.
DVGW Arbeitsblatt W 270 December 1990 - Micro Organism Growth in Drinking Water.
Specific Grade Listings

Several grades of Udel polysulfone are recognized under each
of these standards. Specific information on current listings for
specific grades are available from your Solvay Advanced Polymers representative.
Food Contact
United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) - com-
plies with the specifications of the FDA 21CFR177.1655

for repeated use and selected single use in contact with
food under conditions of use as specified in the citation.
3A Sanitary Standards - Plastic Materials Used in Dairy
Equipment.
NSF Standard 51 - Plastic Materials and Components Used
in Food Equipment.
European Commission Directive 90/128/ EEC - Commission Directive Relating to Plastic Materials and Articles Intended to Come in Contact with Foodstuffs.
Insert Fitting
Vanguard Piping Systems chose to use Udel polysulfone for its line
of insert fittings for use with cross-linked polyethylene pipe. Udel
polysulfone was chosen because it is able to withstand long term
exposure to hot chlorinated water under pressure and it is listed
by NSF International for use for contact with hot potable water.
Millions of fittings have been installed in homes, manufactured
under the HUD code, since 1989.
Approvals
Property Data
The mechanical properties of a material are of fundamental
importance in component design. The designer must match the
requirements of the application to the mechanical properties of
the material to achieve an optimal part design.
The mechanical properties of polymeric materials are more
dependent on time and temperature than those of metals. They
can also be more affected by environmental factors. To design
successfully with polymeric materials, the designer must not
only consider the short-term mechanical properties, but also
the time, temperature, and environmental demands of each
application.
Mechanical Properties
The mechanical properties typically listed in a material suppliers data sheet are short-term properties. In some cases,
these values may be considered an indication of the absolute
maximum capability of a material.
These property values are obtained by preparing a special test
specimen, then subjecting the specimen to an increasing load
until failure, usually rupture, occurs. The test specimens are
specifically designed to obtain reproducible results when tests
are run under ideal conditions. Because the tests are run
quickly, the time-related effects are minimized.
Environmental factors are eliminated by running the tests in a
controlled environment, thereby avoiding any reduction in
properties from chemical exposure.
Short-term mechanical properties usually include:
Faucet Cartridge
Moen chose Udel polysulfone for components of their
PureTouch faucet. Requirements for the material included resistance to purified water and approvals for contact with potable
water. The ability to mold very complex parts accurately and hold
close tolerances was also an important consideration.
tensile strength and modulus,

flexural strength and modulus,
notched and unnotched Izod impact,
compressive strength,
shear strength, and
surface hardness.
Typical Property Tables

The typical short-term properties of Udel polysulfone resins are
shown in Tables 2 (U.S. units) and 3 (SI units).
Table
US 2
Typical Properties* of Udel Polysulfone (U.S. Units)

ASTM
Method
Units
P-1700
P-1720
P-3500
GF-110
GF-120
Tensile strength
D 638
kpsi
10.2
10.2
10.2
11.3
14.0
15.6
Tensile modulus
Tensile elongation at break
D 638
D 638
kpsi
%
360
50-100
360
50-100
360
50-100
540
4
870
3
1,260
2
Flexural strength
D 790
kpsi
15.4
15.4
15.4
18.5
21.5
22.4
Flexural modulus
Izod impact strength
D 790
D 256
kpsi
ft-lb/in
390
390
390
550
800
1,100
1.3
1.3
1.3
0.9
1.0
1.3
ft-lb/in2
NB**
200
NB**
160
NB**
200
48
9
52
54
kpsi
kpsi
13.9
374
13.9
374
17.8
590
22.0
840
25.6
1160
Property
GF-130
Mechanical
Notched
Unnotched
Tensile impact
Compressive strength
Compressive modulus
D 1822
D 695
D 695
Rockwell hardness
D 785
M69
M69
M69
M80
M83
M86
345
345
345
354
356
358
31
31
1.8
26
31
31
1.8
32
31
31
1.8
30
22
27
13
27
10
27
31
31
32
HB
V-0
HB
HB
V-1
Thermal
Heat deflection temperature

at 264 psi
D 648
Thermal expansion coefficient

Flow direction
Transverse direction
E 831
Thermal conductivity
Oxygen index
C 177
D 2863
UL94 Flammability rating (0.059)
F
ppm/F
BTU-in/ft2hrF
%
UL94
Electrical
Dielectric strength
Volume resistivity
D 149
D 257
V/mil
ohm-cm
425
3x1016
425
3x1016
475
3x1016
475
2x1016
475
2x1016
Surface resistivity
Dielectric constant
at 60 Hz
at 1 kHz
at 1 MHz
Dissipation factor
at 60 Hz
at 1 KHz
at 1MHz
D 257
D 150
ohm
4x1015
4x1015
4x1015
4x1015
6x1015
3.03
3.04
3.02
3.03
3.04
3.02
3.18
3.19
3.15
3.31
3.31
3.28
3.48
3.49
3.47
0.0007
0.0010
0.0060
0.0007
0.0010
0.0060
0.0007
0.0011
0.0060
0.0008
0.0014
0.0060
0.0007
0.0014
0.0050
General
Specific gravity
Water absorption***
24 hours
30 days
Melt flow at 650F, 2.16kg
Mold shrinkage
D 792
D 570
D 1238
D 955
1.24
1.24
1.24
1.32
1.39
1.48
0.3
0.5
7.0
0.7
0.3
0.5
7.0
0.7
0.3
0.5
4.0
0.7
0.2
0.3
6.5
0.4
0.2
0.3
6.5
0.3
0.1
0.2
6.5
0.2
g/10 min
%
*Actual properties of individual batches will vary within specification limits. **NB=no break. ***Measured from 'dry as molded'.
Table 3
Typical Properties* of Udel Resins ( SI Units)

ASTM
Method
Units
P-1700
P-1720
P-3500
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
Tensile strength
D 638
MPa
70.3
70.3
70.3
77.9
96.5
107.6
Tensile modulus
Tensile elongation at break
D 638
D 638
GPa
%
2.48
50-100
2.48
50-100
2.48
50-100
3.72
4
6.00
3
8.69
2
Flexural strength
D 790
MPa
106
106
106
128
148
154
Flexural modulus
Izod impact strength
D 790
D 256
GPa
J/m
2.69
2.69
2.69
3.79
5.52
7.58
69
69
69
48
53
69
NB**
420
NB**
337
NB**
420
100
477
110
109
96
2.58
123
4.07
152
5.79
176
8.00
Property
Mechanical
Notched
Unnotched
Tensile impact
Compressive strength
Compressive modulus
D 1822
D 695
D 695
Rockwell hardness
D 785
kJ/m2
MPa
GPa
96
2.58
M69
M69
M69
M80
M83
M86
174
174
174
179
180
181
57
57
57
57
57
57
40
49
23
49
19
49
0.26
26
HB
0.26
32
V-0
0.26
30
31
HB
31
HB
32
V-1
Thermal
Heat deflection temperature

at 264 psi
D 648
Thermal expansion coefficient

Flow direction
Transverse direction
E 831
Thermal conductivity
Oxygen index
UL94 Flammability rating (1.5 mm)
C 177
D 2863
UL94
W/mK
%
D 149
D 257
D 257
D 150
kV/mm
ohm-cm
ohm
ppm/C
Electrical
Dielectric strength
Volume resistivity
Surface resistivity
Dielectric constant
at 60 Hz
at 1 kHz
at 1 MHz
Dissipation factor
at 60 Hz
at 1 KHz
at 1MHz
17
3x1016
4x1015
17
3x1016
4x1015
19
3x1016
4x1015
19
2x1016
4x1015
19
2x1016
6x1015
3.03
3.04
3.02
3.03
3.04
3.02
3.18
3.19
3.15
3.31
3.31
3.28
3.48
3.49
3.47
0.0007
0.0010
0.0060
0.0007
0.0010
0.0060
0.0007
0.0011
0.0060
0.0008
0.0014
0.0060
0.0007
0.0014
0.0050
General
Specific gravity
Water absorption***
24 hours
30 days
Melt flow at 650F, 2.16kg
Mold shrinkage
D 792
D 570
D 1238
D 955
1.24
1.24
1.24
1.33
1.40
1.49
0.3
0.5
7
0.7
0.3
0.5
7
0.7
0.3
0.5
4.0
0.7
0.2
0.3
6.5
0.4
0.2
0.3
6.5
0.3
0.1
0.2
6.5
0.2
g/10 min
%
*Actual properties of individual batches will vary within specification limits. **NB=no break. ***Measured from 'dry as molded'.
SI
Figure 1
Tensile Properties
Tensile properties are determined by clamping each end of a
test specimen into the jaws of a testing machine. The testing
machine applies a unidirectional axial force to the specimen at
a specified rate in accordance with ASTM test method D 638.
The force required to separate the jaws divided by the minimum cross-sectional area is defined as the tensile stress. The
test specimen elongates as a result of the stress, and the
amount of elongation divided by the original specimen length is
the strain.
Typical Stress-Strain Curve
If the applied stress is plotted against the resulting strain, a

curve similar to that shown in Figure 1 is obtained for ductile
polymers like polysulfones.
The initial portion of the stress-strain curve, as shown in Figure 2, is of special interest because its slope in the region
where strain is directly proportional to stress, defines the elastic modulus. Measuring the slope of a curved line accurately is
difficult. Conventions have been developed to standardize the
measurement and reduce the variability in test results. One
method uses the slope of a line drawn tangent to the curve,
and another method utilizes the slope of a secant drawn
through the origin and some arbitrarily designated strain level.
The tangent method was used for the tensile modulus data
reported in this publication.
Figure 2
Stress-Strain Curve Insert

Secant vs. Tangent Modulus
Ductile polymers undergo yield prior to rupture. At the onset of

jaw separation, the stress or force required to elongate the
specimen is directly proportional to the elongation or strain. As
the test proceeds, the specimens exhibit greater amounts of
permanent deformation until the point where additional elongation is achieved with the application of less than the proportional amount of stress. This point is called yield and the stress
level is often referred to as tensile strength at yield. The elongation is called elongation at yield or yield strain. As the test
proceeds, the specimen is elongated until rupture occurs. The
stress level at this point is called tensile strength at break or
ultimate tensile strength. The test method used for determining
tensile properties, ASTM D 638, defines tensile strength as the
greater of the stress at yield or the stress at rupture.
Figures 3 and 4 show the tensile strength and modulus for

unfilled and glass-reinforced Udel polysulfone. As expected, the
addition of the glass fiber improves both the strength and
stiffness.
Figure 3
Glass Fiber Increases Tensile Strength
Figure 4
Coffee Brewer Components
Glass Fiber increases Stiffness of Udel Polysulfone
Udel Polysulfone Engineering Data
Udel P-1700 polysulfone helps Keurig

Premium Coffee Systems with the
manufacture of their patented brewing system. Internal components
(heating tank lid, meter cup, mating
lid, funnel, and K-Cup holder) made of
Udel resin withstand prolonged exposure to high temperatures and resist
residue buildup from mineral acids
and alkali and salt solutions typical contaminants found in water
supplies.
Stress-Strain Curves
Figure 7
Tensile stress-strain curves for neat and glass-reinforced Udel

polysulfone are shown in Figure 5.
Glass Fiber Increases Flexural Strength
Figure 5
Tensile Stress-Strain Curve for Udel Resins
Figure 8
Glass Fiber Increases Flexural Modulus

Flexural Properties
The flexural properties are determined in accordance with
ASTM D 790 Method I using the three-point loading method
shown in Figure 6. In this method, the 5.0 x 0.5 x 0.125 in.
(127 x 13 x 3.2 mm) test specimen is supported on two points
while the load is applied to the center. The specimen is
deflected until rupture occurs or the outer fiber strain reaches
five percent.
Flexural testing provides information about a materials behavior in bending. In this test, the bar is simultaneously subjected
to tension and compression.
Figure 6
Flexural Test Apparatus

Applied Load
Table 4
Compressive Properties
Compressive Properties of Udel Polysulfone
Compressive strength and modulus were measured in accordance with ASTM D 695. In this test, the test specimen is
placed between parallel plates. The distance between the
plates is reduced while the load required to push the plates
together and the plate-to-plate distance is monitored. The
maximum stress endured by the specimen (this will usually be
the load at rupture) is the compressive strength, and the slope
Strength
Modulus
Grade
kpsi
MPa
kpsi
GPa
P-1700 / P-3500
13.9
96
374
2.58
GF-110
17.8
123
590
4.07
GF-120
22.0
152
840
5.79
GF-130
25.6
176
1160
8.00
of the stress-strain curve is the compressive modulus.
Shear Properties
Figure 9
Compressive Strength of Udel Resins
Shear strength is determined in accordance with ASTM test

method D 732. In this test, a plaque is placed on a plate with a
hole below the specimen. A punch with a diameter slightly
smaller than the hole is pushed through the material, punching
out a circular disc. The maximum stress is reported as the
shear strength.
Table 5
Shear Strength of Udel Polysulfone

Shear Strength
Udel Grade
kpsi
MPa
P-1700
at yield
6.0
41
P-1700
at break
9.0
62
GF-110
at break
8.1
56
GF-120
at break
8.4
58
GF-130
at break
8.6
59
Figure 10
Compressive Modulus
10
Impact Properties
Because polymers are visco-elastic, their properties depend on
the rate at which load is applied. When the loading rate is
rapid, the part is said to be subjected to an impact loading.
An example of a common impact loading is a drop test, in
which the plastic part is dropped from a known height onto a
hard, unyielding surface, such as a concrete floor. If a plastic
part is to survive the collision without damage, it must be able
to absorb the energy transferred rapidly to the part as a result
of the impact. The ability of a plastic part to absorb energy is a
function of its shape, size, thickness, and the nature of the
plastic material. The impact resistance testing methods currently in use do not provide the designer with information that
can be used analytically. The tests are only useful for determining relative impact resistance and comparing the relative notch
sensitivities of materials.
After the impact the pendulum continues to swing, but with

less energy due to the collision. The amount of energy lost is
reported as the Izod impact strength in units of foot-pounds per
inch or Joules per meter of beam thickness.
Failure of a material under impact conditions requires that a
crack form, then propagate through the specimen. In the
notched Izod test, the notch acts like a crack and the test is
primarily measuring crack propagation resistance. When the
test is run without a notch, a crack must first be formed, then
propagated.
Notched Izod impact results are shown in Figure 12.
Figure 12
Izod Impact of Udel Polysulfone
Notched Izod
The notched Izod test (ASTM D 256) is one of the most widely
employed methods for comparing polymeric materials. In this
test, a test specimen is prepared by machining in a notch with
a prescribed geometry. The notched specimen is then struck by
a swinging pendulum, as illustrated in Figure 11.
Figure 11
Izod Impact Test Apparatus
Impact
Notch Radius
Clamp
11
Notch Sensitivity
Figure 14
The standard notch radius for the Izod impact test is 0.010 in.
(0.254 mm). To evaluate the effect of the sharpness of the
notch on the impact strength of Udel polysulfone, specimens
were prepared using various notch radii. These specimens
were then tested according to ASTM D 256. The results in Figure 13 clearly show that notch radii smaller than 0.030 in.
(0.76 mm) cause brittle failure, while radii greater than 0.030
in. (0.76 mm) give ductile behavior and good toughness.
Charpy Impact Test

Support Blocks
Test Specimen
In general, whenever possible corner radii should be greater

than 0.030 in. (0.76 mm) to avoid brittle failure due to high
stress concentration.
Impact
Figure 13
Izod impact of Udel P-1700 Polysulfone

at Various Notch Radii
Notch Radius, mm
0.0
30
0.1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
Standard notch radius
1600
Figure 15
1400
Charpy Impact Strength of Udel Polysulfone
1200
15
800
600
10
400
5
200
0
0.000
0.005
0.010
0.015
0.020
0.025
0.030
0
0.035
Notch Radius, in.
7
3
6
5
2
3
1
Charpy Impact, ft-lb/in2
1000
Charpy Impact, kJ/m2
20
Izod Im pact, J/m
Izod Im pact, ft-lb/in.
25
Charpy
The Charpy impact test is run in conformance with ISO test
method 179. This test is similar to the notched Izod in that the
test specimen has a notch machined into it. The major difference is that in the Charpy test, the bar is supported at both
ends and struck in the center, while in the notched Izod test,
the bar is supported at one end the other end is struck. The
two test arrangements are illustrated in Figures 11 and 14.
Another difference is in the calculation. In the Izod test, the
energy is divided by the sample thickness and the results are
expressed in units of foot-pounds per inch or Joules per meter.
In the Charpy test, the energy is divided by the cross-sectional
area of the sample and the results are expressed in units of
foot-pounds per square inch or kilojoules per square meter.
12
0
0
10
20
30
Glass Fiber Content, %
Tensile Impact
Tensile impact is similar to the Izod impact test in that a pendulum is used. However, instead of holding the notched test specimen in a cantilevered beam mode and striking the free end,
resulting in a high speed bending or flexural test, the specimen
is subjected to a high speed tensile loading. This test measures
the inherent impact resistance of a plastic. The specimen does
not contain a notch or other feature to enable crack formation.
The method described in ASTM D 1822 was followed and the
results are shown in Figure 16.
In this test, the specimen is placed on a support plate and the

striker is placed on the specimen. A weight is then dropped
onto the striker from various heights and the effect on the
specimen noted. Failure is defined as a visible crack in the
specimen. The mean failure energy is defined as the energy
required to cause 50 percent failures and it is equal to the
product of the constant mass and the mean failure height.
The specimen thickness used was 0.125 in. (3.2 mm). Of the
optional geometries listed in the method, GC was used. Figure 17 shows the details for Geometry GC.
The impact resistance of Udel P-1700 polysulfone by this test
is >320 in-lb or >20 J.
Figure 16
Tensile Impact of Udel Polysulfone

Figure 17
Gardner Impact Detail
Falling Dart Impact

Another method for determining relative impact resistance
involves dropping an object onto a specimen and noting
whether the collision caused damage to the specimen. A number of standard test methods have evolved with different test
specimen, test specimen support, and dropped object size and
shape. The test method used was ASTM D 5420, Impact Resistance of Flat, Rigid Plastic Specimen by Means of a Striker
Impacted by a Falling Weight (Gardner Impact).
13
Poissons Ratio
Poissons ratio is the ratio of lateral strain to longitudinal strain
within the proportional limit. To illustrate, consider a cylindrical
bar subjected to tensile stress. The length (L) increases and
simultaneously its diameter (D) decreases. Poissons ratio ()
would be calculated by :
=
D
D
L
L
The value of Poissons ratio was measured according to ASTM

test method E 132.
Table 6
Poissons Ratio of Udel Polysulfone

Udel Grade
Poissons Ratio
P-1700
0.37
GF-110
0.43
GF-120
0.42
GF-130
0.41
Printer Cartridge
Ink jet printer cartridges incorporate Udel resin to take advantage

of multiple performance benefits. Its excellent chemical resistance
withstands contact with printing inks, and ultrasonic weldability
and high-temperature resistance are key criteria for allowing robust manufacturing techniques. Further, the excellent dimensional
stability of Udel resin assures close tolerances for producing these
precision components.
14
Long-Term Creep Properties
Figure 18
Tensile Creep of Udel PSU in Air at 210F (99C)
The response of materials to mechanical loading is affected by

the rate of strain application and the mode of load application.
Polymeric materials exhibit a more nonlinear response than
most metals. The designer must be aware that constant stress
results in more deformation than might be expected from the
short-term modulus.
When a bar made of a polymeric material is continuously
exposed to a stress, its dimensions change in response to the
stress. The immediate dimensional change that occurs when
the load is applied can be estimated from the elastic modulus.
If the stress is maintained, the dimensions continue to change.
The continual response to the stress is commonly called creep
and is typically monitored by measuring the strain as a function
of time.
In tensile mode, the test bar will elongate as a function of time
under stress. The term strain is used for the amount of length
increase or elongation divided by the initial length.
Creep can also be observed and measured in a bending or flexural mode, or in a compressive mode. In the flexural mode, the
strain is the amount the surface on the outside of the bend
must stretch. In the compressive mode, the test bar will actually get shorter and the strain is the amount of shortening.
Figure 19
Tensile Creep of Udel PSU in Air at 300F (149C)
When a component is being designed, the short-term properties such as strength, stiffness, and impact resistance are
always considerations. Normally, the maximum deformation is
also calculated because deformation impacts component function. When the component is subjected to constant or
long-term stress, the deformations will be greater than those
predicted from the short-term properties.
To more accurately predict deformations, the apparent or creep
modulus is useful. The apparent modulus is derived by dividing
the applied stress by the measured strain after exposure to
load for a specified time. Using the apparent modulus gives a
more accurate prediction of deformation values after long-term
exposure to stress.
Tensile Creep
Figure 18 shows the tensile creep of neat polysulfone at 210F
(99C) measured in air.
Figure 19 shows this property at 300F (149C).
15
Tensile Creep in Water
Apparent or Creep Modulus
The creep resistance of polysulfone immersed in water is

shown in Figures 20 and 21. At room temperature and a constant stress level of 2 kpsi (13.8 MPa), the strain after 20,000
hours was 1.17 percent. When the stress level was increased
to 3 kpsi (20.7 MPa), the strain at 20,000 hours was only 1.55
percent.
Figure 22 was prepared by calculating the modulus from the

strain when polysulfone was stressed at various temperatures
in both the tensile and flexural modes.
This excellent creep resistance is also seen at 140F (60C),

where after 10,000 hours at a stress of 1.5 kpsi (10.3 MPa)
the strain was 1.19 percent. The strain after 10,000 hours at
2.0 kpsi (13.8 MPa) at 140F (60C) was only 1.7 percent.
Creep Modulus for Unfilled Udel Polysulfone
Figure 22
Figure 20
Tensile Creep of Udel PSU in Water at 73F (23C)
Figure 21
Tensile Creep of Udel PSU in Water at 140F (60C)
16
Classification of Thermoplastic Resins
Thermal Properties
Thermoplastic resins are often divided into two classes: amorphous and semi-crystalline. Figure 23 shows in a generalized
manner, the difference in temperature response between these
resin types. The modulus of amorphous resins decreases
slowly with increasing temperature until the glass transition
temperature (Tg) is reached. Amorphous resins are not normally used at service temperatures higher than their glass
transition temperature.
The ways a material responds to changing ambient temperatures are its thermal properties. These include changes in
strength and stiffness; changes in dimensions; chemical
changes due to thermal or oxidative degradation; softening,
melting, or distortion; changes in morphology; and simple
changes in temperature. The properties of the materials while
molten are discussed in the Fabrication section of this publication. The behavior of these materials while burning is discussed in the Combustion properties section.
Glass Transition Temperature

Typically, when a polymer is heated it becomes progressively
less stiff until it reaches a rubbery state. The temperature at
which the material goes from a glassy to a rubbery state is
defined as the glass transition temperature (Tg). This temperature is important because several fundamental changes occur
at this temperature. These include changes in polymer free volume, refractive index, enthalpy, and specific heat.
The glass transition temperature was measured using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Using this method, the glass
transition temperature is taken as the onset of the change in
heat capacity. Typically the measured value is rounded to the
nearest 5C. Using this method, the Tg value for Udel
polysulfone is 185C (365F).
The modulus of semi-crystalline resins follows the behavior of

amorphous resins up to the glass transition temperature. At Tg,
the modulus shows a rapid decrease to a lower level, but
remains at or near the new level until the melting point Tm is
reached. Semi-crystalline resins, usually reinforced grades, are
often used in ambient temperatures above their glass transition
temperatures, but below their melting points.
Figure 23
Typical Change in Modulus with Temperature
8
7
Mechanical Property Changes
M odulus
Another common method reports the Tg as the mid-point of the

DSC heat capacity transition. Using that convention, the Tg
would be 190C (374F).
Tg
Tm
As ambient temperatures are increased, thermoplastics

become softer and softer until they become fluid. Prior to this
point, the softening can be monitored by plotting the elastic
modulus versus the ambient temperature.
Amorphous
Semi-crystalline
1
0
0
Temperature
Thermal Properties
17
Temperature Effects on Tensile Properties
Temperature Effects on Flexural Properties
Figure 24 shows the effect of increasing ambient temperature

on the tensile strength of neat and glass-reinforced
polysulfone. Figure 25 shows the same information for tensile
modulus.
The effect of temperature on the flexural strength of neat and

glass-reinforced polysulfone is shown in Figure 26. The effect
of temperature on flexural modulus is shown in Figure 27.
Figure 24
Figure 26
Tensile Strength vs. Temperature
Flexural Strength vs. Temperature
Figure 25
Figure 27
Tensile Modulus vs. Temperature
Flexural Modulus vs. Temperature
18
Thermal Properties
Deflection Temperature under Load

One measure of short-term thermal capability is the deflection
temperature under flexural load test described in ASTM test
method D 648. In this test, a bar 5 in.(127 mm) long is placed
on supports 4 in. (102 mm) apart. The bar is loaded to an outer
fiber stress of either 66 psi (0.45 MPa) or 264 psi (1.82 MPa).
The vertical deformation is monitored while the temperature is
increased at a rate of 2C/minute. When the vertical deformation reaches the specified end point of 0.010 in. (0.25 mm), the
temperature is noted and reported as the deflection temperature. The deflection temperature is also commonly referred to
as the heat distortion temperature or heat deflection temperature (HDT).
The coefficients of linear thermal expansion (CLTE) measured

near room temperature for Udel polysulfone and some common
metals are shown in Table 7.
Table 7
Coefficient of Linear Thermal Expansion

Material
Udel P-1700
This test measures the temperature at which the flexural

modulus of the material being tested is approximately 35,000
psi (240 MPa) when the test stress is 66 psi (0.45 MPa), or
140,000 psi (965 MPa) when the stress is 264 psi (1.8 MPa).
FD*
TD
ppm/F
31
31
ppm/C
56
56
Udel GF-110
FD
TD
22
27
40
49
Udel GF-120
FD
TD
13
27
23
49
Udel GF-130
FD
TD
10
27
19
49
15
14
10
8
27
25
18
14
Zinc die-casting alloy

Aluminum die-casting alloy
Stainless steel
Carbon steel
The deflection temperatures of four grades of Udel polysulfone

at 264 psi (1.8 MPa) are shown in Figure 28.
*FD = Flow Direction, TD = Transverse Direction
Figure 28
The thermal expansion coefficient varies with the temperature

range over which it is measured, the dimension measured,
and the flow of the material when the specimen was molded.
Figure 29 shows the effect of temperature and flow direction
on the expansion coefficient of Udel P-1700 resin. Because this
is an unfilled, amorphous resin, the coefficient shows essentially no dependance on flow direction and only a minor
dependance on temperature.
Heat Deflection Temperatures of Udel Resins
Figure 30 shows this relationship for Udel GF-110 (10 percent

glass-reinforced) resin. The effect of the glass is seen primarily
in the flow direction where the glass fibers aligned in that
direction retard the thermal expansion and reduce the coefficient. In the direction perpendicular to flow, the transverse
direction, the coefficient is essentially the same as unfilled
resin.
The coefficients for Udel GF-120 (20 percent glass-reinforced)
resin are shown in Figure 31. The impact of glass fiber orientation in the flow direction is evident by the substantial reduction
in the CLTE in the flow direction.
Thermal Expansion Coefficient

As temperatures rise, most materials increase in size. The
magnitude of the size increase is given by the following
equation.
L = L 0 T
Where L0 is the original length, and L and T are the change
in length and temperature respectively. The coefficient of linear
thermal expansion () was measured in accordance with ASTM
D 696.
Thermal Properties
Udel GF-130 (30 percent glass-reinforced) resin coefficients

are shown in Figure 32. The glass fibers essentially reduce the
expansion in the flow direction to one-half that of unfilled resin.
The geometry of these test specimens accentuate the tendency
of the glass fibers to orient in the flow direction. In an actual
component, it is likely that the flow pattern will be more complex and the actual expansion coefficient will lie between the
values shown.
19
Thermal stresses will be induced in assemblies when materials

with different expansion coefficients are joined. The values
shown in Figures 29 through 32 should allow the design engineer to calculate the magnitude of any thermal stresses arising
from thermal expansion.
Figure 29
Figure 31
CLTE vs. Temperature for Udel P-1700
CLTE vs. Temperature for Udel GF-120
Figure 30
Figure 32
20
Thermal Properties
Thermal Conductivity
Specific Heat
Polymers in general are poor conductors of heat. For many

applications, this is desirable because the polymer provides a
measure of thermal isolation. Table 8 shows the relative thermal conductivities, measured by ASTM test method E 1530, of
Udel polysulfone resins as well as some other common
materials.
Specific heat is defined as the amount of heat required to

change the temperature of a unit mass one degree. The relationship between the specific heat of polysulfone and temperature is shown in Figure 33.
Table 8
Specific Heat of Udel Polysulfone
Figure 33
Btu-in/hr-ft2-F
W/mK
Udel P-1700
1.80
0.26
Udel GF-110
1.32
0.19
Udel GF-120
1.38
0.20
Udel GF-130
1.52
0.22
140-250
20-37
36-60
5-9
12
1.7
1.00
0.14
Material
Stainless steel
Carbon
Wood (particle board)
Rubber
Vicat Softening Point

This test, ASTM D 1525, measures the temperature at which a
flat-ended needle with a 1 mm2 (0.00155 in2) circular cross
section penetrates the specimen to a depth of 1 mm (0.039 in.)
under a one kg (2.2 lb) load using a uniform rate of temperature increase of 50C (90F) per hour. The results for the Udel
polysulfones are shown in Table 9.
Table 9

Udel Grade
P-1700
370
188
GF-110
378
192
GF-120
378
192
GF-130
378
192
Thermostatic Faucet Cartridge

FM Mattsson chose Udel polysulfone instead of brass for production of their thermostatic valve used for showers and baths. In
production since the early 1980s, the valve has proven to resist
problems with mineral build up and corrosion that can interfere
with the operations of the valve.
21
Thermal Properties
Specific Volume
PVT (pressure, volume, temperature) data are equation of state
thermodynamic properties that describe the compressibility
and volume expansion coefficient for a material. These properties are typically employed when performing mold filling analysis with algorithms that make use of compressible flow
equations.
Table 10
Dilatometry is the preferred method for measuring the change

in volume of a specimen subjected to different temperatures
and pressures. High-pressure dilatometry equipment confines
a molded material sample in a fluid on which the pressure can
be varied. A bellows is used to determine the actual change in
volume of the sample as the temperature and pressure are
changed.
Figure 34
Specific Volume of Udel Polysulfone

as a Function of Temperature and Pressure
Temperature, F
0.90
400
425
450
475
500
525
550
575
Pressure,
MPa
199.1
Temperature, C
217.4 238.0 259.1
279.8
300.1
0 0.8351 0.8413
10 0.8314 0.8361
20
0.8300
0.8496 0.8601 0.8710

0.8440 0.8540 0.8638
0.8382 0.8474 0.8563
0.8811
0.8737
0.8654
0.8915
0.8827
0.8735
30
40
50
0.8336 0.8428 0.8515 0.8602 0.8672

0.8295 0.8382 0.8443 0.8550 0.8610
0.8254 0.8340 0.8417 0.8499 0.8554
60
70
The specific volume data for Udel polysulfone is shown in Table

10 and Figure 34.
375
Specific Volume (cm /g) of PSU as a Function of

Temperature and Pressure in the Liquid Phase
600
80
90
100
110
120
130
140
150
160
170
180
190
200
188.8
0.8256
0.8218
0.8301 0.8384 0.8453 0.8499

0.8263 0.8347 0.8407 0.8453
0.8226 0.8299 0.8362 0.8407
0.8192 0.8259 0.8321 0.8362
0.8159 0.8217 0.8282 0.8321
0.8182
0.8149
0.8116
0.8085
0.8027
0.8245 0.8281
0.8209 0.8244
0.8171 0.8207
0.8138 0.8172
0.8103 0.8139
0.8073 0.8167
0.8040 0.8076
0.8010 0.8048
0.8020
0.7993
0 MPa
10 MPa
0.88
Specific Volume, cm 3 /g
20 MPa
30 MPa
40 MPa
0.86
50 MPa
60 MPa
70 MPa
80 MPa
0.84
90 MPa
100 MPa
110 MPa
120 MPa
130 MPa
140 MPa
150 MPa
160 MPa
170 MPa
0.82
180 MPa
0.80
180
200
220
240
260
280
300
320
Temperature, C
Thermal Properties
22
Combustion Properties
UL 94 Flammability Standard
The UL 94 flammability standard established by Underwriters
Laboratories is a system by which plastic materials can be
classified with respect to their ability to withstand combustion.
The flammability rating given to a plastic material is dependent
upon the response of the material to heat and flame under controlled laboratory conditions and serves as a preliminary indicator of its acceptability with respect to flammability for a particular application. The actual response to heat and flame of a
thermoplastic depends on other factors such as the size, form,
and end-use of the product. Additionally, characteristics in
end-use application such as ease of ignition, burning rate,
flame spread, fuel contribution, intensity of burning, and products of combustion will affect the combustion response of the
material.
The samples are clamped in a vertical position with a

20-mm-high blue flame applied to the lower edge of the
clamped specimen. The flame is applied for 10 seconds and
removed. When the specimen stops burning, the flame is reapplied for an additional 10 seconds and then removed. A total of
five bars are tested in this manner. Table 11 lists the criteria by
which a material is classified in this test. Table 12 gives the
ratings of selected grades of Udel polysulfone. The most current ratings of Udel resins can be found at the Underwriters
Laboratories web site at http://data.ul.com/iqlink/index.asp.
Table 11
UL Criteria for
Classifying Materials V-0, V-1, or V-2
Three primary test methods comprise the UL 94 standard. They

are the Horizontal Burning Test, the 20 MM Vertical Burning
Test, and the 500 MW Vertical Burning Test.
Horizontal Burning Test
For a 94HB classification rating, injection molded test specimens are limited to a 5.0 in. (125 mm) length, 0.5 in. (13 mm)
width and the minimum thickness for which the rating is
desired. The samples are clamped in a horizontal position with
a 20-mm blue flame applied to the unclamped edge of the
specimen at a 45-degree angle for 30 seconds or so as soon
as the combustion front reaches a pre-marked line 25 mm
from the edge of the bar. After the flame is removed, the rate of
burn for the combustion front to travel from the 25-mm line to
a pre-marked 100-mm line is calculated. At least three specimens are tested in this manner. A plastic obtains a 94HB rating
by not exceeding a burn rate of 40 mm/min for specimens having a thickness greater than 3 mm or 75 mm/min for bars less
than 3 mm thick. The rating is also extended to products that
do not support combustion to the 100-mm reference mark.
94V-0
94V-1
94V-2
Afterflame time for each individual

specimen, (t1 or t2)
10s
30s
30s
Total afterflame time for any

condition set (t1 + t2 for the 5
specimens)
50s
250s
250s
Afterflame plus afterglow time for

each individual specimen after the
second flame application (t2 + t3)
30s
60s
60s
Afterflame or afterglow of any

specimen up to the holding clamp
No
No
No
Cotton indicator ignited by flaming

particles or drops
No
No
Yes
Table 12
UL 94 Ratings for Udel Polysulfone
20 MM Vertical Burn Test

Materials can be classified 94V-0, 94V-1, or 94V-2 based on
the results obtained from the combustion of samples clamped
in a vertical position.
The 20 MM Vertical Burn Test is more aggressive than the
94HB test and is performed on samples that measure 125 mm
(4.9 in) in length, 13 mm (0.5 in.) in width, and the minimum
thickness at which the rating is desired, typically 0.8 mm (0.03
in.) or 1.57 mm (0.06 in.).
Thermal Properties
Criteria Conditions
23
Udel
Thickness
Grade
P-1700
mm
1.5
3.0
4.5
inch
0.059
0.118
0.177
Rating
HB
HB
V-0
P-1720
1.0
1.5
0.039
0.059
V-1
V-0
GF-110
1.5
3.0
4.4
0.059
0.118
0.173
HB
HB
V-0
GF-120
1.5
3.0
4.4
0.059
0.118
0.173
HB
HB
V-0
GF-130
1.5
3.0
0.059
0.118
V-1
V-0
ASTM test method E 662 provides a standard technique for

evaluating relative smoke density. This test was originally
developed by the National Bureau of Standards (NBS), and is
often referred to as the NBS Smoke Density test.
Oxygen Index
The oxygen index is defined by ASTM Test Method D 2863 as
the minimum concentration of oxygen, expressed as volume
percent, in a mixture of oxygen and nitrogen that will support
flaming combustion of a material initially at room temperature
under the conditions of this method.
Since ordinary air contains roughly 21 percent oxygen, a material whose oxygen index is appreciably higher than 21 is considered flame resistant because it will only burn in an oxygen-enriched atmosphere.
Udel polysulfone is flame resistant as shown by the oxygen
index value in Table 13.
The data presented in Table 14 was generated using the flaming condition. A six-tube burner was used to apply a row of
flamelets across the lower edge of the specimen. A photometric system aimed vertically is used to measure light transmittance as the smoke accumulates. The specific optical density
(Ds) is calculated from the light transmittance. The maximum
optical density is called Dm.
Table 14
Smoke Density of Udel Polysulfone

Table 13
Udel Grade
Oxygen Indices of Udel Resin

Measurement
Udel Grade
Oxygen Index, %
P-1700
26
P-1720
32
P-3500
30
GF-110
31
GF-120
31
GF-130
32
Auto-Ignition Temperature
The auto-ignition temperature of a material is defined as the
lowest ambient air temperature at which, in the absence of an
ignition source, the self-heating properties of the specimen
lead to ignition or ignition occurs of itself, as indicated by an
explosion, flame, or sustained glow. This property was measured using ASTM D1929.
The auto-ignition temperature of Udel polysulfone P-1700 is
1022F (550C) and P-1720 is 1094F (590C).
Flash Ignition Temperature

The flash ignition temperature of a material is defined as the
minimum temperature at which, under specified test conditions, sufficient flammable gasses are emitted to ignite
momentarily upon application of a small external pilot flame.
The flash ignition temperature of Udel polysulfone P-1700 and
P-1720 is 914F (490C).
Ds at 1.5 minutes
Dm at 4.0 minutes
65
16
The ability to support and sustain ignition in plastic materials

may be characterized by standardized glow wire test. This test
simulates conditions present when an exposed current carrying
conductor contacts an insulating material during faulty or overloaded operation. The test method followed is referenced in IEC
695-2-1/VDE 0471 part 2-1 and ASTM D 6194.
The glow wire test apparatus consists of a loop of a heavy
gauge (10-14 AWG) nickel-chromium resistance wire, a thermocouple, and a sample mounting bracket.
During the test, an electrical current is passed through the
nickel-chromium loop in order to obtain a predetermined temperature. The sample is then brought in contact with the wire
for 30 seconds. The test is passed if after withdrawal, the sample displays no flame or glowing, or if so, it is self-extinguishing
after 30 seconds. Damage must be minimal to surrounding layers of material.
Table 15
Glow Wire Results for Glass-Filled Polysulfone
When a material burns, smoke is generated. The quantity and

density of the generated smoke is important in many
applications.
P-1720
Glow Wire Testing
Smoke Density
P-1700
24
Udel Grade
Thickness,
inch (mm)
Ignition Temperature,
F (C)
GF-120
0.031 (0.8)
1607 (875)
GF-130
0.031 (0.8)
1607 (875)
Thermal Properties
Thermal Stability
Thermogravimetric Analysis
Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) is one method for evaluating
the thermal stability of a material. In this test, a small sample of
the test material is heated while its weight is constantly monitored. Two tests are usually run, one with an inert nitrogen
atmosphere and one in air. The difference between the two test
results indicates the importance of oxygen in causing
degradation.
Figures 35 and 36 illustrate the inherent stability of Udel

polysulfone. No significant evolution of volatiles from polymer
degradation occurs below about 800F (426C). The TGA plots
in air and nitrogen are virtually identical up to that temperature
indicating the absence of or limited nature of oxidative pathways to degradation.
Figure 35
Thermogravimetric Analysis in Nitrogen
Figure 36
Automotive Blade Fuses

Blade fuses are a critical part of an automobiles circuit protection
system. Operational reliability is key to ensuring the protection of a
cars electronic and electrical devices in the event of abnormal
power system surges or short circuit conditions. In addition, the
fuse box is often located under hood where it and its contents are
subjected to extremes of temperature, and in some cases, direct incidental contact with chemically aggressive fluids. Plastics used to
manufacturer blade fuses must be able to withstand these conditions over the life of a vehicle without losing key features such as
transparency, electrical insulation properties, and toughness.
Thermogravimetric Analysis in Air
Udel polysulfone is an excellent blade fuse insulator material, particularly in higher amperage designs where the thermal capabilities of
other amorphous materials, such as polycarbonate, are insufficient
for the application. In addition, Udel PSU is a more cost effective
alternative to expensive high temperature transparent materials,
such as polyetherimide. Because of transparency and high volume
resistivity, as well as the ability to retain these properties while resisting embrittlement at continuous use temperatures up to 160C
(320F), Udel P-1700 PSU is a popular material of choice for manufacturing blade fuses throughout the world.
Thermal Properties
25
Thermal Aging
UL Relative Thermal Index
Thermo-oxidative stability limits the acceptable long-term use

temperature of polymers. To evaluate the long-term effects of
elevated ambient temperatures on the properties of Udel
polysulfone, test specimens were oven aged at several different temperatures. Bars were periodically removed and tested
at room temperature for tensile strength.
Thermal aging data similar to those appearing in the previous

section are used to establish Relative Thermal Indices per
Underwriters Laboratories Standard 746B. This method determines the temperature to which a material can be exposed for
100,000 hours and still retain 50 percent of its original properties. The index temperature is frequently considered the maximum continuous use temperature.
The heat aging results for Udel P-1700 resin are shown in Figure 37 and for Udel GF-130 in Figure 38.
The Relative Thermal Indices (RTI) of the major grades of Udel

polysulfone are shown in Table 16. The most complete and
up-to-date ratings are available of Underwriters Laboratories
website at http://data.ul.com/iqlink/index.asp.
Figure 37
Tensile Strength of Udel P-1700 after Heat Aging
Table 16
Selected UL RTI Ratings for Udel Polysulfone

Relative Thermal Index, C (F)
Electrical
Mechanical
with
Impact
Mechanical
without
Impact
0.51 (0.020)
160 (320)
140 (284)
160 (320)
P-1700**
1.5 (0.059)
160 (320)
140 (284)
160 (320)
P-1720*
0.51 (0.020)
160 (320)
140 (284)
160 (320)
P-1720**
1.9 (0.075)
160 (320)
140 (284)
160 (320)
P-3500*
0.51 (0.020)
160 (320)
140 (284)
160 (320)
GF-110**
1.5 (0.059)
160 (320)
140 (284)
160 (320)
GF-120**
1.5 (0.059)
160 (320)
140 (284)
160 (320)
GF-130**
1.5 (0.059)
160 (320)
140 (284)
160 (320)
Thickness,
mm (inch)
P-1700*
Grade
Figure 38
*natural or uncolored
**all colors
Tensile Strength of Udel GF-130 after Heat Aging
26
Thermal Properties
Electrical Properties
Dissipation Factor
Many applications for thermoplastic resins depend upon their

ability to function as electrical insulators. Several tests have
been developed to provide the designer with measures of how
well a particular resin can perform that function. The electrical
properties of the Udel resins are shown in Tables 2 and 3 on
pages 5 and 6.
Dissipation Factor (also referred to as loss tangent or tan delta)

is a measure of the dielectric loss (energy dissipated) of alternating current to heat. In general, low dissipation factors are
desirable.
Dielectric Strength
The UL Relative Thermal Index (RTI) is often a consideration for

electrical or electronic devices. The index is not an electrical
property, rather it relates to the long-term thermal stability of a
material. Therefore, the UL RTI ratings appear in the Thermal
Properties section in Table 16 on page 26.
Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Relative Thermal

Index
Dielectric strength is a measure of a materials ability to resist

high voltage without dielectric breakdown. It is measured by
placing a specimen between electrodes and increasing the
applied voltage through a series of steps until dielectric breakdown occurs. Although the results have units of volts/mil
(kV/mm), they are not independent of sample thickness. Therefore, data on different materials are comparable only for equivalent sample thicknesses.
UL 746A Short-Term Properties
Volume resistivity is defined as the resistance of a unit cube of

material. This test is run by subjecting the material to 500 volts
for one minute and measuring the current. The higher the volume resistivity, the more effective a material is for electrically
isolating components.
Certain electrical properties are included in the Underwriters

Laboratories Standard 746A, entitled Standard for Polymeric
Materials Short-Term Property Evaluations and are typically
reported by Performance Level Category. For each test, UL has
specified test result ranges and the corresponding performance
level category. Desired or best performance is assigned to a
PLC of 0, therefore the lower the number, the better the materials performance. These properties for Udel resins are shown
in Table 22 on page 29.
Surface Resistivity
High-Voltage, Low-Current Dry Arc Resistance (D495)
Volume Resistivity
The surface resistivity of a material is the electrical resistance

between two electrodes on the surface of the specimen. The
material is subjected to 500 volts DC for one minute and the
current is measured. The surface resistivity is typically
expressed in ohms or ohms per square. Although some finite
thickness of material is actually carrying the current, this thickness is not measurable, therefore, this property is an approximate measure.
This test measures the time that an insulating material resists

the formation of a conductive path due to localized thermal and
chemical decomposition and erosion. The test is intended to
approximate service conditions in alternating-current circuits
operating at high voltage with currents generally limited to less
than 0.1 ampere. Table 17 shows the relationship between the
arc resistance and the UL assigned Performance Level Categories.
Table 17
High-Voltage, Low-Current, Dry Arc Resistance

Performance Level Categories (PLC)
This data is best used to compare materials for use in applications where surface leakage is a concern.
Dielectric Constant
Value Range, sec.
Dielectric constant is defined as the ratio of the capacitance of

a condenser using the test material as the dielectric to the
capacitance of the same condenser with a vacuum replacing
the dielectric. Insulating materials are used in two very distinct
ways: (1) to support and insulate components from each other
and ground, and (2) to function as a capacitor dielectric. In the
first case, it is desirable to have a low dielectric constant. In the
second case, a high dielectric constant allows the capacitor to
be physically smaller.
27
>
<
420
Assigned PLC
0
360
420
300
360
240
300
180
240
120
180
60
120
60
Comparative Tracking Index (CTI)
Hot Wire Ignition (HWI)
This test determines the voltage that causes a permanent electrically conductive carbon path when 50 drops of electrolyte
are applied to the specimen at the rate of one drop every 30
seconds. This test is used as a measure of the susceptibility of
an insulating material to tracking. Table 18 shows the relationship between the Comparative Tracking Index and the UL
assigned Performance Level Categories.
Table 18
This test determines the resistance of plastic materials to ignition from an electrically heated wire. Under certain operational
or malfunctioning conditions, components become abnormally
hot. When these overheated parts are in intimate contact with
the insulating materials, the insulating materials may ignite.
The intention of the test is to determine the relative resistance
of insulating materials to ignition under such conditions. Table
20 shows the relationship between the Hot Wire Ignition value
and the UL assigned Performance Level Categories.
Comparative Tracking Index

Performance Level Categories
Table 20
Hot Wire Ignition Performance Level Categories

Value Range, volts
>
<
600
400
Value Range, sec
Assigned PLC
<
0
600
>
Assigned PLC
120
60
250
400
120
175
250
60
30
100
175
30
15
100
15
High-Voltage Arc-Tracking-Rate (HVTR)

This test determines the susceptibility of an insulating material
to track or form a visible carbonized conducting path over the
surface when subjected to high-voltage, low-current arcing.
The high-voltage arc-tracking rate is the rate in millimeters per
minute at which a conducting path can be produced on the
surface of the material under standardized test conditions.
Table 19 shows the relationship between the High-Voltage
Arc-Tracking-Rate and the UL assigned Performance Level Categories.
High-Current Arc Ignition (HAI)

This test measures the relative resistance of insulating materials to ignition from arcing electrical sources. Under certain conditions, insulating materials may be in proximity to arcing. If the
intensity and duration of the arcing are severe, the insulating
material can ignite. Table 21 shows the relationship between
the High-Current Arc Ignition value and the UL assigned Performance Level Categories.
Table 21
Table 19
High-Current Arc Ignition

High-Voltage Arc-Tracking-Rate
Value Range, sec

Value Range, mm/min
>
Assigned PLC
>
<
Assigned PLC
120
10
120
60
10
25.4
60
30
25.4
80
30
15
80
150
15
150
<
28
Table 22
Short-Term Electrical Properties per UL 746A

PLC = Performance Level Category, 0 is best.
High-Voltage, Low- Current, Dry Arc
Comparative Tracking
Resistance
Index
Udel
Polysulfone
Grade
Thickness, in. (mm)
P-1700
P-1720
GF-110/GF-120
GF-130
P-3500
Hot Wire Ignition
High-Current
Arc
Ignition
ASTM D495
(CTI)
(HVTR)
(HWI)
(HAI)
sec. (PLC)
volts (PLC)
mm/min (PLC)
sec. (PLC)
arcs (PLC)
High-Voltage ArcTracking-Rate
0.059 (1.5)
152 (4)
21 (3)
6 (4)
0.118 (3.0)
39 (7)
(4)
21 (3)
6 (4)
0.177 (4.5)
63 (1)
14 (4)
0.236 (6.0)
91 (1)
16 (3)
0.075 (1.9)
279 (4)
12 (4)
14 (4)
0.118 (3.0)
61 (6)
135 (4)
135 (3)
27 (3)
19 (3)
0.236 (6.0)
173 (4)
109 (1)
20 (3)
0.059 (1.5)
(3)
6 (4)
0.118 (3.0)
(7)
165 (4)
97 (1)
7 (4)
0.031 (0.8)
76 (1)
6 (4)
0.059 (1.5)
98 (1)
6 (4)
0.118 (3.0)
124 (5)
165 (4)
203 (4)
97 (1)
7 (4)
0.020 (0.5)
0.118 (3.0)
(4)
66 (2)
35 (2)
29
The samples were laid flat in individual layers on stainless steel

wire trays in constant-temperature baths. Water from the
municipal water supply of Alpharetta, Georgia, was used. After
heating, the water was found to be chlorine free.
Environmental Resistance
Weathering
Because of the aromatic ether backbone, polysulfone is susceptible to chemical degradation upon outdoor exposure.
Weather resistance can be improved by the addition of carbon
black.
Test specimens were periodically removed from the bath and

tested without drying. The tests were run at room temperature
using the following ASTM test methods.
Tensile strength, modulus, and elongation
Applications of polysulfone involving outdoor exposure should

be evaluated individually, considering the specific exposure
conditions and the required material properties. Protective
paints or coatings can be used to preserve the properties of
polysulfone articles exposed to direct sunlight. Contact our
technical personnel for assistance with applications having
specific weathering requirements.
Flexural strength and modulus

Weld line tensile strength and elongation
Notched Izod impact
Tensile impact
Instrumented impact energy
Hydrolytic Stability
Hydrolytic stability can be defined as resistance to hydrolysis,
or attack by water, especially hot water. Therefore, hydrolytic
stability is a specific instance of chemical resistance. Hydrolytic
stability has special importance because water is ubiquitous
and is very aggressive to many polymers.
Long-Term Exposure to Hot Water

To evaluate Udel polysulfone for potential use in hot water
plumbing systems, the effect of long-term hot water exposure
on the physical and mechanical integrity of the polymer was
measured. Although, the maximum use temperature of most
household hot water systems is 140F (60C), testing was also
performed at 194F (90C) to accelerate the effects of the hot
water. Since the rate of many chemical reactions doubles for
each 18F (10C) of temperature, testing at a temperature
54F (30C) higher than the expected maximum temperature
may provide an acceleration factor of eight.
D 638
D 790
D 638
D 256
D 1822
D 3763
Test Results
The tensile strength retention for Udel polysulfone materials is
good. Figure 39 shows the tensile strength retention for Udel
P-1700 NT and Udel GF-120 NT.
As seen in Figure 40, tensile elongation at break for Udel
P-1700 NT shows a large reduction early in the exposure with
only a slight change throughout the remaining test time. The
large initial drop is typical for ductile amorphous plastics and is
attributed to the physical annealing or tempering of the
material.
Figure 39
Tensile Strength After 194F (90C) Water Exposure
Test Procedure
Tests were conducted on ASTM D 638 (Type I) tensile bars and
ASTM D 790 flexural bars with a 0.125 in. (3.2 mm) nominal
thickness that were injection molded following conventional
procedures. Plaques measuring 4 in. x 4 in. x 0.125 in. (102
mm x 102 mm x 3.2 mm) were molded for instrumented
impact testing. Weld line tensile specimens were prepared
using a mold for the ASTM D 638 Type I tensile specimen with
a gate at each end. This mold produces a specimen with a butt
weld line in the center of the gauge area.
30
Figure 40
Tensile Elongation After 194F (90C) Water Exposure
The effect of the hot water exposure on the impact strength as

measured by the Notched Izod method is shown in Figure 42. A
minor drop occurs with the initial exposure, then the decline
levels out. The impact strength at the nearly two-year exposure
is roughly 80 percent of the unexposed value.
Weld line strength for the Udel polysulfones, as shown in Figure 43, was very good, indicating that long-term hot water
exposure has a minimal effect on the resin.
Figure 42
Notched Izod Impact After 194F (90C) Water Exposure
The effect of the hot water exposure on the tensile modulus of

these resins is shown in Figure 41. There is very little change
in modulus over approximately two years of hot water exposure. The stiffness of the bars after exposure is essentially the
same as it was before the exposure.
Figure 41
Tensile Modulus After 194F (90C) Water Exposure

Figure 43
Weld Line Strength After 194F (90C) Water Exposure
31
Hot Chlorinated Water
Steam Sterilization Analysis
Because residual chlorine in water systems combined with elevated temperatures can produce an oxidizing environment,
resistance to hot water is not always enough. Since many plastics are susceptible to oxidation and oxidizing agents, this condition can dramatically shorten the service life of components
made from some plastics.
Steam autoclaves are widely used to sterilize medical devices.

If polysulfone resin was used for medical devices, resistance to
degradation by steam sterilization would be a requirement.
Typical free chlorine levels in most US municipal water supplies

at the point of use are in the range of 0.5 to 2 ppm chlorine
and are achieved by the addition of hypochlorites or
chloramines.
Several studies have demonstrated that Udel polysulfone based
materials offer very good resistance to hot chlorinated water.
Tests were conducted in static water, containing up to 30 ppm
chlorine for 6 months at 140F (60C). As shown in Table 23,
Udel polysulfone did not exhibit any significant weight loss.
Tests were also conducted using flowing water containing 5
ppm chlorine for 2 months at 194F (90C). As shown in Table
24, again Udel polysulfone did not exhibit any significant
weight loss.
To evaluate resistance to steam sterilization, molded test specimens with dimensions of 5 x 0.5 x 0.125 in. (127 x 13 x 3 mm)
were placed in a steam autoclave. A test cycle consisted of 45
minutes; 30 minutes at a steam pressure of 27 psig (0.18
MPa), which has a temperature of 270F (132C), followed by
15 minutes at atmospheric pressure. The autoclave is then
repressurized to 27 psig (0.18 MPa) for the next cycle. After the
desired number of cycles, the test specimens were removed
from the autoclave, cooled to room temperature, and after
standard conditioning, tested for tensile strength, Izod impact,
and tensile impact using the appropriate ASTM methods.
The results are shown in Table 25.
Table 25
Property Retention after Steam Autoclave Exposure

Steam Autoclave Exposure, Cycles
Property
Table 23
50
100
kpsi
10.8
12.6
12.8
MPa
74
87
88
ft-lb/in
1.0
0.9
0.8
J/m
53
48
43
ft-lb/in2
165
131
116
kJ//m2
347
276
248
Tensile strength
Weight Change in Static Chlorinated Water

Weight change after 6 months in static chlorinated water at 140F
(60C), %
Notched Izod impact
Chlorine Content, ppm

0
10
20
30
Udel polysulfone
-0.02
-0.02
0.09
0.05
Polyacetal
-0.15
-2.96
-4.57
-5.47
CPVC
-0.64
-0.56
-0.04
Tensile Impact
0.08
Table 24
Weight Change in Flowing Chlorinated Water

Weight change after 2 months in flowing chlorinated water at 194F
(90C), %
Chlorine Content, ppm
0
Udel polysulfone, unfilled
0.0
0.1
Udel polysulfone, 20% glass-filled
0.0
0.0
-0.6
1.2
CPVC
32
Radiation Resistance
Chemical Resistance (Unstressed)
Test specimens molded from Udel P-1700 polysulfone were

exposed to gamma radiation at dosages of 50, 75, and 100 kGy
(5, 7.5, and 10 megarads). After exposure, the properties were
measured and the results compared to the properties of unexposed specimens. The percent retention was calculated by
dividing the exposed value by the unexposed value and multiplying by 100.
Polysulfone resins have good chemical resistance to most

aqueous systems, caustics, and inorganic acids.
As shown in Table 26, the mechanical properties were virtually

unchanged by exposure to gamma radiation. Some darkening
occurs.
A general indication of the chemical resistance of polysulfone

is shown in Table 27. Chemical resistance was also evaluated
by immersing bar for seven days at room temperature in various media. After seven days, the bars were removed are
weighed and inspected. The results are shown in Table 28.
Table 26
Gamma Radiation Resistance of Udel Polysulfone
The resistance of polysulfone to aggressive environments

depends on: (1) whether the agent is a non-solvent, a poor solvent, or a good solvent for polysulfone; and (2) the total stress
present in the part from all sources.
Property Retention, %
Gamma Radiation
Dosage*, kGy
Tensile
Strength
Tensile
Modulus
Izod
Impact
50
99
100
96
75
99
94
93
100
98
100
98
Resistance is also good to aliphatic hydrocarbons, detergents,

soaps, and certain alcohols. Reagents known to be solvents or
to cause stress cracking in polysulfone articles include chlorinated hydrocarbons, aromatics, and oxygenated solvents, such
as ketones and ethers. Addition of glass fiber at levels of 10 to
30 percent substantially improves resistance to the more
aggressive chemical environments.
To maximize chemical resistance, the lowest stress must be

achieved in the finished part from all operations including
molding and post-finishing. In some cases, annealing may be
indicated to relieve residual stress. The benefits and disadvantages of annealing are discussed on page 65.
*1 megarad=10 kGy
Table 27
General Indication of Polysulfone Chemical Resistance

Rating*
Chemical Family
Example(s)
Unfilled Grades
Glass-Filled Grades
Aliphatic hydrocarbons
n-butane, iso-octane
Aromatic hydrocarbons
benzene, toluene
Alcohols
ethanol, isopropanol
Ketones
acetone, methyl ethyl ketone
Esters
ethyl acetate
Chlorinated hydrocarbons
1.1.1 trichloroethane, chloroform
Non-oxidizing acids
sulfuric acid (20%), acetic acid (20%)
Bases
sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide
*Rating system
E
Excellent
G Good
A
Attack
No change
Minor effects, no serious loss of properties
Rupture or dissolution
33
Table 28
Chemical Resistance of Udel P-1700 Resin by Immersion for 7 Days at Room Temperature
Reagent
Concentration, %
Weight Change, %
Comments
Organic Chemicals
Acetone / Water
0.55
no change
20
-0.52
no change
Butanol
100
-0.83
no change
Carbon Tetrachloride
100
0.24
no change
40
0.41
no change
Cyclohexane
100
0.22
no change
Diethylene glycol monoethyl ether
100
0.13
no change
Ethanol
100
0.08
no change
Ethyl Acetate
100
27.44
Formic Acid
10
0.96
no change
Glycerine
100
-0.15
no change
Oleic Acid
100
0.07
no change
Oxalic Acid
20
0.45
no change
100
1.03
no change
12
0.28
no change
Calcium Chloride
Saturated
0.01
no change
Hydrochloric Acid
20
0.40
no change
Hydrofluoric Acid
50
2.02
no change
100
0.51
no change
Nitric Acid
20
0.43
no change
Nitric Acid
40
0.33
no change
Nitric Acid
71
3.76
attacked, discolored
100
-0.25
no change
Potassium Hydroxide
20
0.29
no change
Potassium Hydroxide
35
0.13
no change
Sulfuric Acid
40
0.19
slightly darkened
Acetic Acid
Citric Acid
1,1,1 Trichloroethane
softened, swollen
Inorganic Chemicals
Chromic Acid
Hydrogen Peroxide
Phosphoric Acid
Functional Fluids
Brake Fluid
100
-0.04
no change
Diesel Fuel
100
0.00
no change
Gasoline
100
0.05
no change
Hydraulic Oil
100
0.35
no change
Jet Fuel JP-4
100
0.05
no change
Kerosene
100
0.19
no change
Motor Oil
100
0.01
no change
Transmission Oil
100
0.01
no change
34
Stress Cracking Resistance
Table 29
To evaluate the resistance of Udel resins to environmental

stress cracking, test specimens 5 in.(127 mm) long, 0.5 in. (13
mm) wide, 0.125 in. (3.2 mm) thick were clamped to curved
fixtures. The radius of the fixture induces a strain in the specimen. From the tensile modulus of each material, the corresponding stress was calculated as shown in Table 29. The
reagents were then applied to the central portion of the fixtured
test specimen. After 24 hours of exposure, the specimens were
examined for evidence of attack and rated. Table 30 defines
the ratings that appear in the subsequent environmental stress
cracking resistance tables.
The variables of importance in environmental stress cracking
are temperature, stress level, time, and reagent. If a reagent
causes stress cracking at a given time, temperature, and stress
level, the following generalizations usually apply. At lower
stress levels, cracking may not occur. If cracking does occur,
longer exposure time will usually be required. Higher temperature generally reduces the exposure time required to cause
cracking. Diluting the reagent with liquids to which the polymer
is inert will usually reduce or eliminate stress cracking depending upon the reagent and the diluent.
Calculated Stresses for Strained ESCR Test Bars

Stress, kpsi (MPa)
Strain, %
Udel
Grade
Modulus,
kpsi (GPa)
0.28
0.56
1.12
P-1700
360 (2.48)
1.0 (6.9)
2.0 (13.9)
4.0 (27.5)
GF-110
530 (3.65)
1.5 (10.2)
3.0 (20.7)
5.9 (40.5)
GF-120
750 (5.17)
2.1 (14.5)
4.2 (28.9)
8.3 (57.4)
GF-130
1,070 (7.38)
3.0 (20.7)
6.0 (41.3)
11.9 (81.9)
Table 30
Key to Environmental Stress Cracking Tables
For the purpose of part design, it is important to consider the

chemical environment, especially if the part will be stressed.
35
Symbol
Definition
OK
No change in appearance, no , no softening, no discoloration
Dissolved, evidence of solvation, softening, or swelling
Crazing
Rupture
Organic chemicals
Table 31
Environmental Stress Cracking Resistance to Organic Chemicals after 24-Hour Exposure
Reagent
Acetone
2-Ethoxyethanol
Ethyl Acetate
Isopropanol
Methanol
Methylene Chloride
Methyl Ethyl Ketone
1,1,1-Trichloroethane
Toluene
Concentration,
%
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
Temperature
F
73
73
73
73
73
73
73
73
73
Strain, %
Udel
Grade
0.28
0.56
1.12
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
OK
GF-110
OK
OK
OK
GF-120
OK
OK
OK
GF-130
OK
OK
OK
OK
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
OK
OK
OK
GF-110
OK
OK
OK
GF-120
OK
OK
OK
GF-130
OK
OK
OK
P-1700
OK
OK
OK
GF-110
OK
OK
OK
OK
GF-120
OK
OK
OK
OK
GF-130
OK
OK
OK
OK
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
OK
GF-110
OK
GF-120
OK
OK
GF-130
OK
OK
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
36
Inorganic chemicals
Table 32
Environmental Stress Cracking Resistance to Inorganic Chemicals after 24-Hour Exposure

Temperature
Reagent
Concentration,
%
73
Hydrochloric Acid
73
73
73
1.12
P-1700
OK
OK
OK
OK
GF-110
OK
OK
OK
OK
GF-120
OK
OK
OK
OK
GF-130
OK
OK
OK
OK
P-1700
OK
OK
OK
OK
GF-110
OK
OK
OK
OK
GF-120
OK
OK
OK
OK
GF-130
OK
OK
OK
OK
P-1700
OK
OK
OK
OK
GF-110
OK
OK
OK
OK
GF-120
OK
OK
OK
OK
GF-130
OK
OK
OK
OK
P-1700
OK
OK
OK
GF-110
OK
OK
OK
GF-120
OK
OK
GF-130
OK
OK
P-1700
OK
OK
OK
OK
GF-110
OK
OK
OK
OK
GF-120
OK
OK
OK
OK
GF-130
OK
OK
OK
OK
P-1700
OK
OK
OK
OK
GF-110
OK
OK
OK
OK
GF-120
OK
OK
OK
OK
GF-130
OK
OK
OK
OK
P-1700
OK
OK
OK
OK
GF-110
OK
OK
OK
OK
GF-120
OK
OK
OK
OK
GF-130
OK
OK
OK
OK
P-1700
OK
OK
OK
GF-110
OK
OK
OK
GF-120
OK
OK
OK
GF-130
OK
OK
OK
23
100
23
100
23
100
23
50
212
0.56
5.25
212
Sulfuric Acid
0.28
20
212
Sodium Hypochlorite
(household bleach)
20
212
Sodium Hydroxide
Strain, %
Udel
Grade
100
37
Automotive Fluids
Table 33
Environmental Stress Cracking Resistance to Automotive Fluids after 24-Hour Exposure

Reagent
Concentration,
%
Temperature
F
C
73
23
212
100
73
23
212
100
73
23
73
23
212
100
73
23
212
100
73
23
212
100
73
23
212
100
50
Antifreeze (glycol type)
100
Gasoline - Unleaded
Motor Oil 10W40
Power Steering Fluid
Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Windshield Washer Concentrate
100
100
100
100
100
Udel
Grade
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
38
Strain, %)
0
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
0.28
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
R
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
0.56
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
R
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
R
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
1.12
OK
OK
OK
OK
R
OK
R
R
OK
OK
OK
OK
R
OK
R
R
R
C
R
C
OK
OK
OK
OK
R
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
R
OK
R
R
OK
OK
OK
OK
C
OK
R
R
Foods and Related Products

Table 34
Environmental Stress Cracking Resistance to Food Related Products after 24-Hour Exposure
Reagent
Butter
Corn Oil
Margarine
Milk
Olive Oil
Peanut Oil
Vegetable Oil
Concentration,
%
Temperature
F
C
73
23
302
150
73
23
302
150
73
23
302
150
73
23
302*
150*
73
23
302
150
73
23
302
150
73
23
302
150
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
Udel
Grade
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
39
0
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
R
OK
OK
OK
Strain, %
0.28
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
R
OK
OK
OK
0.56
OK
OK
OK
OK
R
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
R
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
R
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
R
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
R
OK
OK
OK
1.12
OK
OK
OK
OK
R
OK
R
R
OK
OK
OK
OK
R
OK
R
R
OK
OK
OK
OK
R
C
R
R
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
OK
R
OK
R
R
OK
OK
OK
OK
R
R
R
R
OK
OK
OK
OK
R
C
R
R
Physical Properties
Water Absorption
The water absorption of Udel polysulfone resins measured by
immersion at room temperature following ASTM test method
D 570 is shown in Figure 44. The graph shows that neat
polysulfone absorbs less that 0.6 weight percent moisture and
the glass-reinforced grades absorb even less. The dimensional
change due to moisture absorption is so small that it is negligible for most purposes.
Udel polysulfone can be modified with additives to significantly

improve its tribological properties. Additives found to be effective include reinforcing fibers, certain particulate fillers, fluorocarbon polymers, and silicone oils and resins. Incorporating
these additives can significantly reduce the wear factor and
coefficients of friction and increase the limiting pressure-velocity values for compounds based on Udel polysulfone. Compounds based on Udel polysulfone incorporating these additives are available from many independent compounders.
Abrasion Resistance
Udel P-1700 was tested using a Taber abrader with a CS-17
wheel for 1,000 cycles at a 1 kg load. The total weight loss was
20 mg.
Figure 44
Water Absorption of Udel Polysulfone
Permeability
The permeability of Udel polysulfone to various gases was
measured in accordance with ASTM test method D 1434. The
tests were performed at standard conditions of temperature
and pressure. The results are shown in Table 35.
0.60
Water Absorption, %
0.50
0.40
0.30
Table 35
Permeability of Udel Polysulfone to Various Gases
0.20
P-1700
GF-110
GF-120
GF-130
0.10
Permeability
0.00
0
10
15
20
25
30
cc mil
100in2 day atm
Gas
35
mm3 m
m MPa day
2
Exposure Time, days
Wear resistance
Udel polysulfone offers strength and rigidity at elevated temperatures, long-term heat resistance, dimensional stability, and
outstanding resistance to acidic and basic environments. These
properties combined with low isotropic mold shrinkage make
Udel polysulfone an ideal material for precision components.
For applications where sliding speed and load are low, standard Udel grades (P-1700, GF-120 etc.) may offer sufficiently
low wear with a sufficiently low coefficients of friction. However, for applications where higher loads and speeds are
required, it may be necessary to modify the material to improve
its tribological properties.
40
Ammonia
NH3
1,070
4,160
Carbon Dioxide
CO2
950
3,690
Helium
He
1,960
7,620
Hydrogen
H2
1,800
6,990
Methane
CH4
38
146
Nitrogen
N2
40
155
Oxygen
O2
230
894
Sulfur Hexafluoride
SF6
Physical Properties
Rockwell Hardness
Rockwell hardness of Udel polysulfone was determined according to ASTM test method D 785, Procedure A using an indenter
diameter of 0.25 in. (6.35 mm) and a major load of 100 kg (220
lb) and a minor load of 10 kg(22 lb). This test measures the
resistance of a material to indentation by a round steel ball of a
specified diameter under specific time and loading conditions.
The depth of the indentation is measured after the minor load
is applied for 10 seconds, followed by application of the major
load for 15 seconds. At the end of the 15 seconds, the major
load is removed and the indentation measured. The hardness
value is calculated by subtracting the indentation measurement
from 150. Therefore, higher values of Rockwell hardness on the
same scale indicate more resistance to indentation.
The Rockwell hardness of neat and glass-reinforced
polysulfone is shown in Figure 45. As expected, the addition of
glass fibers increases the indentation resistance and the
Rockwell hardness values are higher.
Figure 45
Rockwell Hardness, M Scale
Water Distribution Manifold

Vanguard Piping Systems Inc. chose Udel polysulfone for use in its
unique Manabloc water distribution system. The low creep of

Udel resin was critical to the design of the manifold. It helped to
ensure that sufficient compression would remain on the O-rings
to maintain the seal between the modular sections over its expected lifetime.
Other critical design factors included the ability to withstand
long-term hydrostatic stress to chlorinated potable water at temperatures typically found in residential plumbing systems and
recognition under NSF/ANSI Standard 61 for potable water
contact.
Physical Properties
41
Figure 46
Optical Properties
In its natural state, Udel polysulfone is a transparent material
with a slight yellow tinge. It offers relatively high light transmittance and low haze. Typical light transmittance curves for Udel
polysulfone for three different thicknesses are shown in Figure 46.
Light Transmittance of Udel P-1700 NT11 at Various

Wavelengths and Thicknesses
The transparency of Udel polysulfone coupled with the other

high-performance engineering features of the resin are advantageous in many applications. Examples include coffee decanters, sight glasses for process equipment, and the face shield
visor for astronaut space suits. Selected optical properties of
Udel polysulfone are shown in Table 36. In addition to its good
transparency attributes, polysulfone offers a high refractive
index. A high refractive index is desirable for many lens applications because it allows thinner and/or higher power lenses
than are possible with other commercially-available transparent polymers such as polycarbonate and acrylics.
The dispersion and Abbe value of the polymer provides a quantitative measure of the materials refractive index dependence
on the wavelength of incident light. This property is usually
obtained by measuring the refractive index of the plastic at
three characteristic wavelengths of the visible spectrum
referred to as the F line, the D line, and the C line. These lines
have wavelengths of 486.1, 589.3, and 656.3 nanometers
respectively. To generate the data reported in the Table 37, the
refractive index, n, was measured at these wavelengths using
an Abbe refractometer employing the method of total internal
reflection. From these three refractive index values, the dispersion, Abbe value (or Abbe V-number as it is also known), and
the slope of the refractive index-wavelength plot were
calculated.
Figure 47
Refractive Index Variation with Wavelength of

Udel P-1700 NT11
Table 36
Optical Properties of Udel P-1700 NT11 Polysulfone

Thickness, in. (mm)
Property
ASTM
Method
0.070
(1.78)
0.103
(2.62)
0.131
(3.33)
Light Transmittance
D 1003
86
85
84
Haze (%)
D 1003
1.5
2.0
2.5
Yellowness Index
D1925
7.0
10
13
Table 37
Wavelength Dependent Properties of Udel P-1700 NT11
42
Property
Formula
Value
Dispersion
nF nC
0.027
Abbe Value
nD 1
nF nC
23.3
Slope
nC nF
C F
-0.160
Physical Properties
Design Information
The rules for designing articles to be produced using
polysulfone are similar to those which apply to other thermoplastics. Good design will not only result in a better product but
also a product which is easier to manufacture and will quite
often be lower in cost. The goal of a plastic part design is to
meet the physical strength and deformation requirements with
minimum volume of material, considering the effects of
stresses caused by assembly, temperature changes, processing. and environmental factors.
Mechanical Design
Bending Stress
A variety of parts can be analyzed using a beam bending
model. Table 38 lists the equations for maximum stress and
deflection for some selected beams. The maximum stress
occurs at the surface of the beam furthest from the neutral surface, and is given by:
=
Mc M
=
I
Z
where
The use of classical stress and deflection equations provide

starting points for part design. Mechanical design calculations
for Udel resins are similar to those used with any engineering
material, except that the physical constants used must reflect
the viscoelastic nature of the polymers. The material properties
vary with strain rate, temperature, and chemical environment.
Therefore the physical constants, like elastic modulus, must be
appropriate for the anticipated service conditions.
For example, if the service condition involves enduring load for
a long period of time, then the apparent or creep modulus
should be used instead of the short-term elastic modulus.
When the loading is cyclical and long-term, then the fatigue
strength at the design life is the limiting factor.
M = bending moment , inch pounds

c = distance from the neutral axis , inch
I = moment of inertia , inch 4
Z =
1
= section modulus , inch 3
c
Table 39 lists the cross sectional area (A), the moment of inertia (I), the distance from the neutral axis ), and the section
modulus (Z) for some common cross sections.
Tensile Stress
In the elastic region of the stress-strain curve, the strain can be
related to the applied stress by Hookes Law. Hookes Law can
be expressed as
Stress Levels
The initial steps in the design analysis are to determine the
loads that the part will be subjected to and to calculate the
resultant stress and deformation or strain. The loads may be
externally applied loads or loads that result from the part being
subjected to deformation due to temperature changes or
assembly.
An example of an externally applied load is the weight of medical instruments on a sterilizer tray. Deformation loads might
arise when a switch housing is bolted to a base plate, or when
the temperature of the assembly increases and the dimensions
of the plastic part change more than the metal part to which it
is bolted.
= E
where:
= tensile stress
E = modulus of elasticity
= elongation or strain
The tensile stress is defined as:
=
F
A
where:
Stress-Strain Calculations
F = total force
A = cross - sectional area
To use the classical equations, the following simplifying

assumptions are necessary:
1. the part can be analyzed as one or more simple structures;
2. the material can be considered linearly elastic and isotropic;
3. the load is a single concentrated or distributed static load
gradually applied for a short time; and
4. the part has no residual or molded-in stresses.
Mechanical Design
43
Table 38
Maximum Stress and Deflection Equations

Cantilevered Beam (One End Fixed)
Concentrated Load at Free End
Simply Supported Beam

Concentrated Load at Center
FL
4Z
(at load)
Y =
(at support)
FL
48EI
(at load)
Y =
Simply Supported Beam

Uniformly Distributed Load
F (total load)
Cantilevered Beam (One End Fixed)

FL
8Z
F (total load)
5FL
384EI
Y =
(at center)
Both Ends Fixed

Concentrated Load at Center
1/2 L
FL3
8EI
(at support)
Both Ends Fixed

FL
8Z
F (total load)
(at supports)
Y =
FL
2Z
(at support)
FL3
3EI
(at load)
(at center)
Y =
FL
Z
FL
12 Z
(at supports)
FL
192EI
Y =
(at load)
44
FL3
384EI
(at center)
Mechanical Design
Table 39
Area and Moment Equations for Selected Cross Sections

Rectangular
I-Beam
t
A = bd
c =
d
2
I =
bd 3
12
na
d
c
A = bd h (b t )
na
d
2
I =
bd 3 h 3 (b t )
12
bd 2
Z =
6
c =
bd 3 h 3 (b t )
6d
Z =
s
b
Circular
H-Beam
d 2
4
A =
na
c =
d
c =
2
d
64
I =
Z =
A = bd h (b t )
3
3
na I = 2 sb + ht
b
4
d
32
do
A = b 1d 1 b 2 d 2
(d o d i )
4
d
c = o
2
na
4
Z =
d2
b2
(d o d i )
32 d o
c =d
na
d
Z =
I =
d t + s (b t )
2 (bs + ht )
2
b 1d 13 b 2 d 23
12
b 1d 13 b 2 d 23
6d 1
A = bd h (b t )
c =b
I
c
tc 3 + b(d c) 3 (b t)(d c s) 3
3
Mechanical Design
I =
U-Beam
A = bs + ht
d1
2
Z =
b1
T-Beam or Rib
s
c =
d1
c
(d o d i )
64
I =
2 sb 3 + ht 3
6b
Z =
Hollow Rectangular
A =
d
di I
12
Tube
na
b
2
45
na
I =
Z =
2b 2 s + ht 2
2A
2b 3 s + ht 3
A (b c ) 2
3
I
c
Substituting into equation (2) and eliminating common factors:
Designing for Stiffness

When a design engineer considers replacing a metal component with plastic, one consideration is the rigidity or stiffness of
the component. If the application requires that the maximum
deflection under load remain at the current value, then the
plastic component must have stiffness equivalent to the metal
component.
Table 38 provides the deflection equations for a variety of
beams. Selecting the beam with both ends fixed and a uniformly distributed load, the deflection (Y) is given by :
Y =
3
d Udel = 3 6.07d magnesium
If the section thickness in magnesium was 0.100 in. (2.54

mm), then
d Udel = 3 6.07(.001)
d Udel = 0182
.
inch
or
FL
384EI
d Udel = 463
. mm
To achieve equivalent stiffness by simply increasing section
thickness requires an 82 percent increase.
To arrive at a part design with equivalent stiffness, start by

equating the deflection equations for the plastic and metal
parts as follows:
Adding Ribs to Maintain Stiffness
FL3
FL3
=
384EI
metal 384EI plastic

Assuming a constant load and length, and removing the factors
common to both sides of the equation, the governing equation
becomes:
[EI ]metal = [EI ]plastic
d Udel = 3 6.07(16.38)
(1)
Knowing that the modulus of elasticity (E) of these materials

are substantially different, it becomes apparent that the dimensions of the parts will need to be changed to adjust the
moment of inertia (I).
For example, if the metal part is produced from magnesium
with a modulus of 6.5 x 106 psi (44.8 GPa) and the replacement
plastic material is Udel GF-130 with a modulus of 1.07 x 106
psi (7.38 GPa), then the required increase in the moment of
inertia can be calculated from equation (1).
Another method of achieving stiffness is to increase the

moment of inertia by adding ribs. The use of ribs can reduce
wall thickness and weight, and still provide the required
stiffness.
Because the material is the same as in the previous example,
the moment of inertia of the rib design is equal to the moment
of inertia of the 0.182 in.(4.63 mm)-thick plate. The moment of
inertia of the plate is given by:
I plate =
If we assign 1 inch (25.4 mm) to the width, then I = 5.02 x 10-4

in4 (209 mm4).
Calculating the rib and wall thickness that will give the same
moment of inertia is done using the following equations for the
distance from the neutral axis to the extreme fiber (c), the
moment of inertia (I), and the area (A).
(6.5 x 106 psi)(Imagnesium)=(1.07 x 106 psi)(IUdel)
c =d
(44.8 GPa)(Imagnesium)=(7.38 GPa)(IUdel)
or
IUdel=6.07 Imagnesium
bd 3
.
12
d 2 t + s 2 (b t )
2(bs + ht )
tc 3 + b(d c ) (b t )(d c s )
3
(2)
I =
Increasing Section Thickness
A = bs + ht
One way to increase the moment of inertia is to increase the

section thickness.
From Table 39, the formula for the moment of inertia of a rectangular section is:
I =
bd 3
12
where b is the width and d is the thickness of the section.
46
Mechanical Design
A typical rib design is shown in Figure 48.
Y =
Figure 48
Adding Ribs to Achieve Stiffness

s
The moment of inertia for a beam with a rectangular cross section is given in Table 39 as:
I =
d
na
h
5FL3
384EI
bd 3
12
The width of the beam is 1 (25.4 mm). Substituting the beam

dimensions in the equation gives:
c
t
I =
Experience has taught that certain constraints on the rib design

are desirable from a processing standpoint. The constraints
are:
t 06
.s
I = 000050238
.
in 4 (209 mm4)
The short-term deflection for this beam if it were made from
Udel P-1700 is given by:
h = 15
.s
Y =
Using an empirical iterative method to solve these equations

for the rib geometry that would provide the same moment of
inertia as the original metal part or the 0.182 in. (4.63 mm)
thick plate with one rib per inch yields these results.
( 1)( 0182
. )3
12
5FL3
384EI
where F = 10pounds ( 68.9 Pa)
L = 5 in. (127 mm)
Wall thickness (s) = 0.125 in. (3.2 mm)
E = 360000
,
psi (2.48 GPa)
rib width (t) = 0.075 in. (1.9 mm)
I = 000050238
.
in 4 ( 209 mm 4 )
rib height (h) = 0.1875 in. (4.8 mm).
Y =
( 5)( 10)( 5) 3
= 009
. in. ( 2.3 mm)
( 384)( 360000
, )( 000050238
.
)
If the load is sustained for 10,000 hours, then the apparent or

creep modulus, which can be found in Figure 22 on page 22, is
used instead of the tensile modulus.
Adding one rib per inch (25 mm) reduces the cross-sectional
area required for equivalent stiffness from 0.182 square inch
(117 square mm) to 0.139 square inch (90 square mm) .
Designing for Sustained Load
Y =
Typical stress strain calculations describe the immediate or

short-term response to load. If the load is sustained over a long
time interval, the deflection is greater than expected due to the
visco-elastic nature of the polymer which leads to the phenomenon known as creep. To more accurately predict deflection
under sustained load situations, the apparent or creep modulus
can be used in place of the elastic modulus. An example of the
calculations for a sustained load is shown below.
( 5)( 10)( 5) 3
= 011
. inch (2.8 mm)
( 384)( 290000
, )( 000050238
.
)
The additional deformation due to creep is 0.02 in. (0.5 mm).

Figure 49
Beam used in Sustained Load Example

F=10 lbs
Calculating Deflection
If the beam shown in Figure 49 is loaded with a uniformly distributed load of 2 lbf/in. (13.8 Pa), to calculate the instantaneous deflection in the center and the deflection after 10,000
hours of sustained load, refer to Table 38. The equation for the
deflection of a simply supported beam with a uniformly distributed load is:
Mechanical Design
47
d= 0.182"
5.00"
Design Limits
After the designer has calculated the maximum stress level
and deflection, he then compares that stress value to the
appropriate material property, i.e. tensile, compressive, or
shear strength. He then decides whether the design incorporates a sufficient safety factor to be viable or whether the
design should be modified by changing wall thickness or incorporating ribs or contours to increase the section modulus.
The term design allowable has been coined for an estimate
of a materials strength that incorporates the appropriate safety
factors for the intended loading pattern. Table 40 presents the
design allowables for short-term intermittent loading. Table 41
provides the design allowable stresses for constant loading
where creep is a major design consideration. These tables do
not consider any environmental factors other than temperature.
The presence of chemicals may lower the design allowables
dramatically.
The design given by the application of the mechanical design
equations is useful as a starting point, but some critical factors
are not considered by this analysis. For example, the impact
resistance of a design is directly related to its ability to absorb
impact energy without fracture. Increasing wall thickness generally improves the impact resistance of a molded part. However, increased wall thickness could reduce impact resistance
by making the part overly stiff and unable to deflect and distribute the impact energy. Therefore, the ability of the design to
withstand impact must be checked by testing the impact resistance of prototype parts.
Industrial Battery Container

Saft chose Udel polysulfone for the container or jar that holds
the battery cell components in their SRM F3 battery cells typically
used for electrical system backup in rail transport systems. The
cells are filled with potassium hydroxide electrolyte fluid and are
expected to function without fluid replenishment for two years.
Udel polysulfones resistance to water absorption, shock, and vibration are key to maintaining long-term battery stability. Because
the material is transparent, fluid levels can be monitored without
opening the vent cap.
Table 40
Allowable Design Stress for Intermittent Load, psi (MPa)

Temperature, F (C)
Udel
Grade
73 (23)
200 (93)
300 (149)
P-1700
5,300 (36.3)
4,520 (31.2)
3,640 (25.1)
GF-110
5,880 (40.5)
4,880 (33.6)
4,100 (28.3)
GF-120
7,280 (50.2)
5,510 (38.0)
4,870 (33.6)
GF-130
8,110 (55.9)
4,870 (33.6)
6,060 (41.8)
Table 41
Allowable Design Stress for Constant Load, psi (MPa)

Temperature, F (C)
Udel
Grade
73 (23)
200 (93)
300 (149)
P-1700
2,550 (17.6)
1,910 (13.2)
1,260 (8.7)
GF-110
2,820 (19.5)
2,150 (14.8)
1,580 (10.9)
GF-120
3,500 (24.1)
2,520 (17.3)
2,040 (14.1)
GF-130
3,900 (26.9)
3,020 (20.8)
2,730 (18.8)
48
Mechanical Design
Stress Concentrations
Figure 51
Classical mechanical design may result in a component design

that fails prematurely or at a much lower stress than predicted
due to stress concentration. Stress concentrations occur at sharp
corners, around holes, or other part features. Impact and fatigue
situations are especially sensitive to stress concentrations.
Design Corners to Minimize Stress
Minimizing sharp corners reduces stress concentrations and

results in parts with greater structural strength. To avoid stress
concentration problems, inside corner radii should be equal to
at least half of the nominal wall thickness. A fillet radius of
0.015 in. (0.4 mm) should be considered minimum.
T
Corner radius = T
Wall
thickness at
corner is
about 1 1/3 T
Figure 50 shows the effect of inside corner radius on the stress

concentration factor. For example, if the nominal wall thickness
(t) is 0.080 in. (2 mm) and an inside corner radius (r) is 0.020
in. (0.5 mm), then the radius to thickness ratio (r/t) is 0.25 and
the stress concentration factor will be about 2. Effectively a
stress of x will act like a stress of 2x at the corner.
Outside corners should have a radius equal to the sum of the
radius of the inside corner and the wall thickness to maintain a
uniform wall thickness.
Figure 50
Poor Design
Better Design
Threads
The classes of the Unified Thread Standard with a rounded root
should be used. Threads should not run to the very end of a
threaded section. A clear area of at least 1/32nd inch (0.79
mm) should be provided. Pipe threads are not recommended
because they induce a severe wedging action.
Stress Concentration Factor for Inside Corners

Figure 52
Proper Thread Design

1/32 (0.79 mm) minimum
Correct
Incorrect
Figure 51 illustrates proper corner design.
Mechanical Design
49
Interference Fits
One of the most economical methods that can be used to
assemble two parts is a press fit. It joins two parts using a
shaft and hub without the use of screws, adhesives, metal
inserts, or ultrasonic welding, etc. The joint is achieved by
pressing or forcing the shaft into a hole whose diameter is
smaller than the diameter of the shaft. The difference in diameter between the hole and shaft is referred to as the diametrical
interference. The force maintaining the joint is primarily a compressive stress on the shaft resulting from the hoop stress in
the hub created by the insertion of the shaft. Depending upon
the relative moduli of the shaft and hub materials, the compressive stress in the shaft can also contribute to maintaining
the joint. The stress holding an interference fit will exhibit
relaxation over time in a manner that is analogous to creep,
because the apparent modulus of the polymeric material
decreases over time.
Calculating the Allowable Interference

The allowable interference between a shaft and a hub can be
determined by using the general equation:
I =
S d D s F + h 1 s
+
F Eh
Es
and the geometry factor is given by:
F =
D
1+ s
Dh
D
1 s
Dh
If the shaft and hub are made from the same grade of Udel
resin, then:
Eh = Es = E
and the interference is:
I =
Sd
F + 1
Ds
F
E
If the hub is made from Udel resin and the shaft is made from
metal, then the interference is:
I =
S d Ds F + h
F
Eh
When a press fit is used with dissimilar materials, the differences in thermal expansion can increase or decrease the interference between two mating parts. This could increase or
reduce the stress affecting joint strength.
A press fit can creep or stress relax over time. This could cause
a decrease in the retention force of the assembly. Therefore,
testing the assembly under its expected operating conditions is
highly recommended.
Figure 53
Press Fit Example

Shaft
ds
where:
Break Corner
I = Diametrical interference, in. (mm)
Chamfer
Sd = Working stress, psi (MPa)

Dh = Outside diameter of the hub, in. (mm)
Ds = Diameter of the shaft, in. (mm)
Eh = Modulus of elasticity of the hub material, psi (MPa)
Es = Modulus of elasticity of the shaft material, psi (MPa)
h = Poissons ratio of hub material
s = Poissons ratio of shaft material
F = Geometry factor
Dh
Cross-section of Hub
50
Mechanical Design
Designing for Injection Molding
create problems in appearance and dimensional stability due to

cooling rate differentials and turbulent flow.
Because many of the applications for Udel resins will be injection molded components, factors which influence moldability
must be considered in the part design. These factors include
wall thickness and wall thickness transitions, draft, ribs,
bosses, and coring.
Also, from a structural standpoint, a sharp transition will result

in a stress concentration, which may adversely affect part performance under loading or impact.
Wall Thickness
Wall Thickness Transition
Figure 55
In general, parts should be designed with the thinnest wall that

has sufficient structural strength to support the expected loads,
keeps deflection within design criteria limits, has adequate
flow, and meets flammability and impact requirements. Parts
designed in this manner will have the lowest possible weight,
the shortest molding cycle, and therefore the lowest cost.
Sharp
Poor
Occasionally, wall thicknesses greater than those required by

the mechanical design analysis are required for molding. The
flow of Udel resins, like other thermoplastics, depends upon the
wall thickness as well as the mold design and process variables, such as injection rate, mold temperature, melt temperature, and injection pressure. The practical limits of wall thickness generally lie between 0.030 in. (0.8 mm) and 0.250 in.
(6.4 mm). Wall sections of 0.010 in. (0.25 mm) can be molded
if flow lengths are short. Figure 54 shows the flow length
obtained at different wall thicknesses and injection pressures
using a mold temperature of 200F (93C).
Tapered
Good
Gradual
Best
Draft Angle
To aid in the release of the part from the mold, parts are usually
designed with a taper in the direction of mold movement. The
taper creates a clearance as soon as the mold begins to move,
allowing the part to break free. The taper is commonly referred
to as draft, and the amount of taper referred to as draft
angle. The use of draft is illustrated in Figure 56.
Figure 54
Flow Distance Versus Thickness of Udel P-1700 PSU
Figure 56.
Using Draft to aid Mold Release
Dimensional Change Due to Draft
Depth of Draw
Wall Thickness Variation

While uniform wall thicknesses are ideal, varying wall thickness may be required by structural, appearance, and draft considerations. When changes in wall section thickness are necessary, the designer should consider a gradual transition, such as
the 3 to 1 taper ratio shown in Figure 55. Sharp transitions can
51
Draft Angle
Adequate draft angle should be provided to allow easy part

removal from the mold. Generally for Udel resins, the designer
should allow a draft angle of to 1 per side for both inside
and outside walls. In some special cases, smaller draft angles,
as low as 1/8 to , have been used with draw polish on the
mold surface.
Coring
Proper design should include uniform wall section thickness
throughout a part. Heavy sections in a part can extend cycle
time, cause sink marks, and increase molded-in stresses.
Heavy sections should be cored to provide uniform wall thickness. For simplicity and economy in injection molds, cores
should be parallel to the line of draw of the mold. Cores placed
in any other direction, usually create the need for some type of
side action or manually loaded and unloaded loose cores.
More draft should be used for deep draws or when cores are
used. Textured finishes increase draft requirements by a minimum of 1 per side for each 0.001 in. (0.025 mm) of texture
depth.
Ribs
The structural stiffness of a part design can be increased with
properly designed and located ribs without creating thick walls.
Proper rib design allows decreased wall thickness, which in
turn saves material and weight, shortens molding cycles and
eliminates thick walls, which can cause molding problems like
sink marks. Ribs that are correctly positioned may also function
as internal runners, assisting material flow during molding.
In general, these guidelines should be followed when designing
with ribs. The thickness at the rib base should be equal to
one-half the adjacent wall thickness. When ribs are opposite
appearance areas, the width should be kept as thin as possible.
If there are areas in the molded part where structure is more
important than appearance, then ribs are often 75 percent or
even 100 percent of the outside wall thickness. Whenever possible, ribs should be smoothly connected to other structural
features such as side walls, bosses, and mounting pads. Ribs
need not be constant in height or width, and are often matched
to the stress distribution in the part. All ribs should have a minimum of of draft per side and should have a minimum
radius of 0.015 in. (0.4 mm) at the base. Figure 57 shows recommended rib size relationships.
Figure 57
Recommended Rib Design

1/2 to 1 1/2 Draft
Cores that extend into the cavity are subject to high pressure.
For blind cores with diameters greater than 1/16 in. (1.5 mm),
the core lengths should not exceed three times the diameter;
blind cores with diameters less than 1/16 in. (1.5 mm) the core
length should not exceed twice the diameter. These recommendations may be doubled for through cores. Draft should be
added to all cores and all tooling polished for best ejection.
Bosses
Bosses are protrusions off the nominal wall of a part that are
used as mounting or fastening points. The design of bosses is
largely dependent upon their role in a given part. Cored bosses
can be used with press fits, self-tapping screws, or ultrasonic
inserts. These fasteners exert a variable amount of hoop stress
on the wall of the boss.
As a general guideline, the outside diameter of a each boss
should be twice the inside diameter of the hole, and the wall
thickness of each boss should not exceed that of the part. Figure 58 illustrates these guidelines.
Additional forces imposed on a boss may be transmitted down
the boss and into the nominal wall. For this reason, a minimum
radius of 25 percent of the wall thickness is required at the
base of the boss to provide strength and reduce stress concentration. A boss can be further strengthened by using gusset-plate supports around the boss, or attaching it to a nearby
wall with a properly designed rib. Heavy sections should be
avoided to prevent sink marks on the surface of the part .
Figure 58
Boss Design General Guidelines
I.D.
O.D.
t <= 0.6 S
R >0.015" (0.4 mm)

O.D. = 2 X I.D.
S
.25T
52
Snap-Fits
The ductility of Udel engineering resins combined with their
strength make them well suited for snap-fit assembly. In all
snap-fit designs, some portion of the molded part must flex like
a spring, usually past a designed interference, and return to its
unflexed position to create an assembly between two or more
parts. The key to snap-fit design is having sufficient holding
power without exceeding the elastic or fatigue limits of the
material.
Figure 60
Snap-Fit Design Using Tapered Beam

Maximum Strain =
3Yh 0
2L2 K
The two most common types of cantilever beam snap-fits are

straight beam and tapered beam. Figure 59 and Figure 60
show these typical snap-fit designs and the corresponding
equations for calculating the maximum strain during assembly.
The proportionality constants for a tapered beam design are
shown in Figure 61. The design should not have a maximum
strain greater than the permissible strain shown in Table 42.
Y maximum
hL
h0
Table 42
Maximum Permissible Strains for Snap-Fit Designs

Maximum
Permissible Strain
Udel Grade
P-1700
5.5
GF-110
3.0
GF-120
1.5
GF-130
1.0
Figure 61
Proportionality Constant (K) for Tapered Beam
Figure 59
Snap-Fit Design Using Straight Beam

Maximum Strain =
3Yh 0
2L2
Y maximum
h0
53
Fabrication
Drying
should be handled to preclude re-absorption of moisture from

the atmosphere.
Polysulfone must be dried before it is molded or extruded. The

material absorbs up to about 0.3 percent atmospheric moisture
in storage. The moisture content must be reduced to about
0.05 percent by drying. Otherwise, surface streaks, or splay
marks, appear on injection molded parts and extruded forms
exhibit severe bubbling. Moisture, however, does not hydrolyze
polysulfone or in any way react with it to cause discoloration,
chemical degradation or deterioration of its properties. Parts
formed from undried resin are only unsatisfactory in appearance, or in some cases weak due to formation of internal bubbles. Any parts unsatisfactory due to moisture can be reground,
dried, and then reformed without loss of original properties.
Polysulfone pellets can be dried in a circulating hot air oven or
in a dehumidifying hopper dryer. Oven drying can be accomplished by spreading the pellets onto trays to a depth of 1 to 2
in. (25 to 51 mm) and drying for 3 hours after the pellets
have reached 275F (135C) or 2 hours at 325F (163C).
Drying curves for Udel polysulfone are shown in Figure 62.
Polysulfone does not require pre-drying if processed in a

vented extruder designed for volatile removal. In all other continuous molding and extrusion operations, it is recommended
that a dehumidifying hopper dryer be attached directly to the
processing equipment. These efficient dryers permit continuous processing operations and the size chosen will depend on
the rate of material consumption.
Polysulfone requires a residence time of 3.5 hours through the
hopper dryer operating at inlet air temperature of 275F
(135C). The hopper should be insulated so that at equilibrium
conditions the temperature drop is no more than 25 to 35F
(14 to 19C). The inlet hot air returning to the hopper dryer
after passing over the desiccant bed should be at a maximum
dew point of -25F (-32C).
Figure 62
Drying Udel Polsulfone
These represent minimum recommendations since polysulfone

cannot be over-dried. In fact, it can be held at 275F (135C)
for up to a week without harm. If the natural material is dried at
temperatures exceeding 330F (166C), the pellets may sinter
after 3 to 4 hours in the oven.
Drying time may have to be increased in highly humid weather.
An air-tight oven equipped with a dehumidifying unit in which
the air is recirculated over a drying bed is recommended as the
most uniform and efficient drying method. The dried resin
54
Drying
Rheology
The rheology data for Udel P-1700 and Udel P-3500 resins are
shown in Figures 63 and 64.
Figure 63
Rheology of Udel P-1700 Resin
Figure 64
Rheology of Udel P-3500 Resin
Water Heater Dip Tubes

Water heater dip tubes are used to move the incoming cold water
in a storage type water heater from inlet at the top of the heater
to the bottom to prevent mixing with the hot water. In addition
many dip tubes are designed to create movement around the
heating elements to prevent collection of scale in the bottom of
the tank. Thin wall (0.020 - 0.5 mm) tubes of Udel polysulfone
have been used in this application since the early 1970s. The materials long-term hydrolytic stability and resistance to oxidative
attack by chlorinated water reduces the threat of product failure,
which has been known to happen with lower cost, lower performing materials (PP, PEX).
55
Injection Molding
Figure 65
Screw Design for Injection Molding
Injection Molding Equipment

Udel polysulfone can be readily injection molded with most
screw injection machines.
L
LM
Screw Design
LT
LF
The typical general-purpose screw will perform satisfactorily

with Udel resins. A typical screw design for processing these
resins is shown in Figure 65.
D = Screw outer diameter
Screw Tips and Check Valves
L = Overall screw length

18 - 22 D
LF = Length of feed section
0.5 L
LT = Length of transition section 0.3 L
The design of the screw tip and the check valve are important
for proper processing. The check or non-return valve keeps the
melt from flowing backwards over the screw flights during
injection and holding. If no check valve is used, it will be difficult or impossible to maintain a consistent cushion.
The check valve or check ring system must be designed for
smooth flow, avoiding dead spots or back pressure. Ball check
valves are not recommended. The screw tip should also be
streamlined to ensure that the quantity of melt stagnant in front
of the screw is minimized.
Nozzles
General purpose nozzle tips are recommended. Open nozzles
are preferred to nozzles equipped with shut-off devices. The
configuration of the bore of the nozzle should closely correspond to the screw tip.
Molds
Standard guidelines for mold design are appropriate for the
Udel resins.
Draft and Ejection

In general, the draft in injection molds designed for Udel resins
should be 0.5 to 1. The contact area of ejector pins or stripper plates should be as large as possible to prevent part deformation or penetration during ejection.
Gates
All conventional gating types, including hot runners, can be
used with Udel resins. Problems may arise with some hot
LM = Length of metering section

CR = Compression ratio
0.2 L
1.8 - 2.4 : 1
runner designs, which either encourage long residence times

or have dead spots where material can accumulate and
degrade. Gates must be of adequate size to allow part filling
without the use of extremely high injection melt temperatures
or pressures. Voids or sink marks may be caused by gates that
freeze off before packing is complete.
Venting
Molds for Udel resins must be vented at the ends of runners
and at the position of expected weld lines. The vents should
have land lengths of 0.080 to 0.120 in. (2 to 3 mm), with
depths up to 0.003 in. (0.08 mm).
Mold Temperature Control

Controlling the mold temperature is critical to achieving high
quality parts. On some especially challenging parts, separate
controllers may be required for the mold halves. The temperatures required for molding Udel resins can be achieved by
using a fluid heat transfer system with oil as the fluid, or by
using electric heaters.
Fluid heat transfer systems are always preferable to electric
heaters. Although electric heaters can aid in achieving minimum mold temperatures, they dont remove heat from the
mold. Mold temperatures may rise above the desired temperature, especially when molding large parts.
Table 43
Starting Point Molding Conditions

Udel Grade
Melt Temperature, F (C)
Mold Temperature, F (C)
Shrinkage, %
P-1700
660-730 (350-390)
280-320 (138-160)
0.6 - 0.7
P-1720
660-730 (350-390)
280-320 (138-160)
0.6 - 0.7
GF-110
680-730 (360-390)
280-320 (138-160)
0.5
GF-120
680-730 (360-390)
280-320 (138-160)
0.4
GF-130
680-730 (360-390)
280-320 (138-160)
0.3
56
Injection Molding
Machine Settings
Molding Process
Injection Molding Temperatures
Feed Characteristics
The injection molding melt temperatures recommended for

various Udel resins are listed in Table 43. In general, higher
temperatures should not be used because of the risk of thermal
degradation. As a fundamental rule, injection molding melt
temperatures higher than 740F (393C) should be avoided.
Udel pellets can be conveyed smoothly along the barrel and

homogeneously plasticized at the recommended temperatures
by screws of the design shown in Figure 65 on page 56.
Mold Temperatures
Mold temperature is an important factor in determining shrinkage, warpage, adherence to tolerances, quality of the molded
part finish, and level of molded-in stresses in the part.
Back Pressure
Back pressure is usually employed to maintain a constant
plasticizing time, to avoid air entrainment, and/or to improve
homogenization of the melt. It is not absolutely necessary for
Udel resins. Back pressure that is too high can result in high
frictional heating.
The mold temperature for Udel resin is usually set in the range
of 250 to 320F (120 to 160C). The only products that
require higher temperatures to achieve an optimum finish are
the glass-reinforced Udel grades. Table 43 lists the recommended mold temperatures for individual Udel grades.
Screw Speed
Heat losses can be reduced by inserting insulation between the

mold and the platen. High-quality molded parts require a
well-designed system of cooling channels and correct mold
temperature settings.
Barrel Temperatures
Udel pellets can be melted under mild conditions and relatively
long residence times in the barrel can be tolerated, if the temperature settings on the band heaters increase in the direction
from the hopper to the nozzle. If residence times are short, the
same temperature can be set on all the barrel heaters. At least
one band heater (rated at 200 W to 300 W) is required for the
nozzle, where heat losses to the mold may be severe as a
result of radiation and conductivity. These heat losses can be
reduced by insulating the nozzle.
Whenever possible, the screw speed should be set so that the

time available for plasticizing during the cycle is fully utilized. In
other words, the longer the cycle time, the slower the screw
speed. For instance, a screw speed of 60 to 100 rpm often suffices for a 2-inch (50-mm) diameter screw. This is particularly
important when running high melt temperatures to ensure that
the melt does not remain stationary for an undesirably long
time in the space in front of the screw tip. Low screw speeds
also diminish the temperature increase due to friction.
Injection Rate and Venting

The injection rate used for filling the mold is another important
factor in determining the quality of the molded part. Moderate
injection speed should be used. It should be rapid enough to
achieve melt homogeneity, but slow enough to avoid shear
burning. Rapid injection provides uniform solidification and
good surface finish, especially with the glass-reinforced
grades.
The band heater control system should be monitored. For

instance, a timely alarm may prevent screw breakage if a
heater fails in one of the barrel sections.
The pellet feeding can often be improved by maintaining the
temperature in the vicinity of the hopper at about 175F (80C).
Residence Time in the Barrel

The length of time the plastic remains in the plasticizing cylinder has a significant effect on the quality of the injection molding. If it is too short, the pellets will not be sufficiently melted. If
it is too long, thermal degradation is likely and is indicated by
discoloration, dark streaks, and even burned particles in the
molded parts. Frequently, the residence time can be reduced by
fitting a smaller plasticizing unit. Acceptable residence times
will be obtained if the shot size is 30 to 70 percent of the barrel capacity. At the melt temperatures listed in Table 43, all the
Udel resins can withstand a residence time up to 20 minutes,
but 10 minutes or shorter is preferred.
Injection Molding
The temperature in the feed section should not be set too high,
because the pellets may melt prematurely resulting in the
screw flights becoming choked and bridged over.
The mold must be designed to allow air to readily escape cavities during the injection phase. If this is not done, rapid compression of the air in the cavity creates high temperatures
causing localized overheating and burn marks. In order to eliminate voids, the screw forward time and the holding pressure
must be high enough to compensate for the contraction in volume that occurs during cooling.
Gates must be large enough so the polymer does not solidify in
their vicinity before the holding time has elapsed. Any plugs
formed in or near the gate prevent packing the interior of the
mold.
57
Demolding
Udel parts can be readily demolded and do not stick to the
walls of the mold, even when they are hot. As a rule, the draft
on injection molds for Udel resins should be 0.5 to 1. A
somewhat larger draft is required for the glass-reinforced
products, because of their lower shrinkage. The area of ejectors or stripper plates should be as large as possible. Ejector
pins must not be too thin, or they may press into the parts and
deform them during rapid cycling or at high mold
temperatures.
Mold Releases
Some mold release compounds contain carriers that can cause
stress cracking of Udel polysulfone parts. Mold releases recommended for use with polycarbonate are generally compatible
with Udel resin. However, even these compounds should be
tested for compatibility prior to use.
When using mold release compounds for parts that require a
Underwriters Laboratory (UL) listing care must be taken to
select products that UL has recognized as being compatible
with the listings provided for the products being used. Manufacturers should contact Underwriters Laboratories at
http://www.ul.com for additional information.
Shrinkage
Shrinkage is defined as the difference between the dimensions
of the mold and those of the molded part at room temperature.
It is primarily a property of the thermoplastic resin and results
from the contraction in volume that occurs when the molding
compound cools within the mold. Other factors that effect the
magnitude of the shrinkage are the geometry of the part, the
wall thickness, the size and location of the gates, and the processing parameters. The interaction of all these factors makes
it difficult to predict shrinkage exactly, but close estimates of
shrinkage are possible. Typical values appear in Table 43 on
page 56.
58
Injection Molding
59
3
Gate blush
1
1
4
2 4 1
High mold stress
2 1
4 7 2 3
4 2 9 3
Low gloss
Warpage
Weld lines
High shrinkage
Rippled surface
Dark streaks
Parts stick
Sinks and voids
Jetting
Short shots
Splay
3
Slow screw recovery
Nozzle drool
1 5
3 2 5
2 1
2 1
4 3
1 2
4 5
3 2
6 5
5 6
2 3
6 5 7
3 2
9 8 2
Sprue sticks
Screw squeals
3 4 1
3 4
Nozzle plugs
6 4 3 7 5
Slow injection
Erratic injection
Process parameters
10
11
12
12
13 14
Tooling and equipment
11
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Injection Molding
1
Pol
Apply
Troubleshooting Guide
Then inspect the part for crazes. If the part is crazed, the residual stress is greater than 2,800 psi (19 MPa). If the part is not
crazed, the residual stress is less than 2,800 psi (19 MPa). The
test is continued with the next mixture.
Regrind
Sprues, runners, and discrepant parts can be reused by grinding them and mixing them with pellets. The ground material,
often referred to as regrind, must be dry. It can be dried using
the same procedure used for pellets. Polysulfone has excellent
thermal stability and regrind can be used multiple times without degradation. A typical regrind utilization scheme is to mix
25 percent regrind with 75 percent pellets.
Immerse the part in the second mixture, remove after one minute, allow to dry, and inspect for crazing. If crazing occurs, the
residual stress is between 2,200 and 2,800 psi (15 and 19
MPa). If crazing does not occur, the residual stress is less than
2,200 psi (15 MPa). The test is continued with the next mixture.
To demonstrate the stability of the material, test bars were

molded using 100 percent regrind. Those bars were then
ground and remolded again. This process was repeated until
the material had been molded four times. At this point the bars
were tested for tensile strength, impact resistance, and deflection temperature. The results, shown in Table 44, indicate that
no degradation of properties has occurred.
Continue in a like manner until crazing occurs, or the part

endures the one-minute immersion in ethyl acetate without
crazing.
To maintain accurate stress readings, the reagents must be
fresh. Over time, the reagents may absorb water, evaporate, or
become contaminated, which can lead to erroneous stress
indications. Although reagents can be calibrated by using samples with known stress levels, It may be more practical to
replace your reagents with fresh solvent from the sealed container periodically. If you want to calibrate your reagents, contact your Solvay Advanced Polymers representative for
assistance.
Table 44
Properties of Udel P-1700 After 4 Moldings

Property
First Molding
After 4 Moldings
Tensile Strength, kpsi (MPa)
10.0 (68.9)
10.3 (71)
Izod Impact, ft-lb/in (J/m)
1.3 (69)
1.3 (69)
Deflection Temp, F (C)
347 (175)
343 (173)
Table 45
Reagents for Residual Stress Test
Measuring Residual Stress

When working with fabricated polysulfone parts, it is important
to minimize residual or molded-in stress. A procedure has been
developed for estimating the magnitude of the residual stress .
The procedure entails exposing the parts to a series of ethanol/ethyl acetate mixtures. The stress level required for crazing
to occur for each mixture was determined using specimens at
known stress levels. The mixtures and the stress levels at
which they cause crazing are shown in Table 45.
To determine the residual stress, immerse the part for one minute in the first mixture 75% by volume ethanol and 25% by
volume ethyl acetate. Then remove the part from the reagent
and it allow to dry. Drying can be accelerated by blowing
low-pressure compressed air on the surface.
60
Mixture Composition
% by volume
% by volume
Mixture
Ethanol
Ethyl Acetate
75
2
3
Critical Stress,
psi
(MPa)
25
2,800
(19)
50
50
2,200
(15)
43
57
1,700
(12)
37
63
1,300
(9)
25
75
800
(6)
Injection Molding
Extrusion Blow Molding
Process Conditions
The extrusion blow molding process consists of the following

steps:
Resin temperatures for blow molding are much lower than for
injection molding: 600 to 625F (315 to 329C) for Udel
P-1700 and 625 to 650F (329 to 343C) for P-3500.
extruding a tube called a parison
However, other blow molding conditions are similar to those

used for other materials. Blow air pressures ranging from 40 to
70 psi (0.28 to 0.48 MPa) have been satisfactory in molding
bottles. Molding cycles are comparable to those used for polycarbonate. Because of the amorphous, fast-setting nature of
polysulfone, cycles should be shorter than those obtained with
polyolefins.
enclosing the molten parison in a mold

introducing air pressure to expand the parison to fill the
mold
cooling and ejecting the part.
Both Udel P-1700 and P-3500 resins are suitable for blow
molding. However, P-3500 is often preferred because of its
higher melt strength.
Drying
Polysulfone resin must be thoroughly dried before molding.
Please refer to page 54 for drying recommendations. Drying is
more critical for blow molding than it is for injection molding
since hot extruded parisons are at atmospheric pressure which
allows any water present to easily come to the surface.
Equipment
Commercial blow-molding equipment, including both constant
and intermittent extrusion types, are suitable for polysulfone
provided they are capable of the 600 to 650F (315 to
343C) melt temperatures.
Screw configuration in extrusion blow molding equipment is
important in blow molding polysulfone. Optimum balance in
melt temperature uniformity, temperature control, and power
requirements is achieved with screws having a low ( 2.0 to
2.5:1) compression ratio. High-compression-ratio screws, such
as those normally used with polyolefins, should be avoided.
They require high drive torques and generate excessive frictional heat with polysulfone.
The temperature uniformity of polysulfone melt obtained in
extrusion is much better than that of the polyolefins. Consequently, screen packs and other pressure restrictions are not
normally needed.
As in injection molding, mold temperature should be controlled
with oil to achieve low molded in stress. Since most parts will
have some relatively thin wall area, mold temperature should
be in the range of 250 to 300F (120 to 149C).
Extrusion Blow Molding
Blow molding of polysulfone is facilitated by giving proper

attention to head and die design and temperature control.
Streamlined heads and dies minimize hang up and improve the
control of melt uniformity. Since the polysulfone melt is
extremely temperature sensitive, uniform surface temperatures
in the die and head should be carefully maintained. Such precautions produce beneficial results in controlling the parison.
Blow molded articles with a glossy, lustrous surface can be
produced from polysulfone. The use of polished flow surfaces
in heads, pins, and dies help to achieve in the finished part the
high gloss inherent in the material. Polished mold surfaces are
also recommended for optimum part surface appearance.
Polysulfone is not corrosive and chrome plating of flow surfaces is not essential. However, chrome plating may help in the
maintenance of the high polish on pins and dies.
The melt viscosity of polysulfone is not shear sensitive, and this
results in less parison swelling on emergence from the die than
is obtained with most other blow molding materials. As a consequence, the wall thickness of the parison is normally close to
the dimensions of the clearance between the pin and die.
Material temperature and extrusion rate from the die are
important in controlling parison drawdown of polysulfone. As is
the case with most materials, drawdown can become excessive if the parison extrusion rate is too slow or if material temperature is too high. Generally, the best results are obtained
with fast parison extrusion at the minimum temperature which
gives a smooth parison surface. Parison programming is recommended for optimum wall uniformity.
61
Two-stage screws can also be used to allow vacuum venting

where optimal compaction of the melt is desired. A two-stage
screw design includes a decompression section to allow vacuum venting after the first metering section. The decompression section is followed by another transition zone and another
metering zone, following the design principles described for the
single-stage screw.
Extrusion
Udel polysulfone can be readily extruded using conventional
extrusion equipment to form a number of products, such as
sheet, film, profile, rod, slab, and tubing.
Predrying
Udel resins must be thoroughly dried prior to extrusion to prevent bubbles in the extrudate. The recommendations for drying
material that appear on page 54 apply except that drying
should be continued until the moisture content is below 100
ppm. Hopper drying requires sufficient insulation and minimal
system leakage. Inlet air temperature must be high enough and
inlet air moisture content low enough for polymer pellets to be
maintained above 300F (149C) in air with a -40F (-40C)
dew point. This condition must be sustained long enough for
the polymer moisture content to drop to below 100 ppm.
Extrusion Temperatures
Depending on the specific extrusion operation, the melt temperature of the extruded stock should be in the range of 600 to
700F (315 to 371C). Polysulfone is not shear sensitive, which
means that the melt viscosity of the material will vary directly
with temperature.
Barrel temperature settings of 575F (302C) at the feed end of
the extruder increasing to 600 to 640F (315 to 337C) at
the head are recommended for most operations. These barrel
temperature settings should yield the required extruded stock
temperature if maintained uniformly in the range of 600 to
700F (315 to 371C). If a screw with a relatively shallow
metering section is used, higher barrel temperature settings of
600 to 675F (315 to 357C) may be necessary to better control the operation within the pressure and power limitations of
the equipment.
Screw Design Recommendations

In general, screws with length-to-diameter ratios of 20:1 to
24:1 are recommended. Compression ratios from 2:1 to 2.5:1
have been shown to give acceptable results. Screw pitch
should equal screw diameter, and the transition from feed to
metering should be gradual. The transition and metering sections should be longer than the feed section. The transition
section should be the longest to provide sufficient time and
heat input to adequately soften the resin before trying to pump
it. A starting point configuration is 4 flights feed, 14 flights transition, and 6 flights of metering.
Die Design
The die heaters must be capable of reaching and maintaining
temperatures of 600 to 700F (315 to 371C). Since the viscosity of polysulfone is temperature sensitive, die temperature
must be closely controlled to provide a uniform extrudate.
Dies designed for polycarbonate can be used. Dies should
always be streamlined. Streamlining the flow channel and
incorporating purge plates (i.e. bleeder plugs) in the ends of
sheeting dies eliminate the tendency for material to hang up in
the die, leading to stagnation and degradation.
Dies should be capable of operating continuously at pressures
up to 3,000 psi (21 MPa).
Flow channels, die lips, and lands should be highly polished
and chrome-plated for optimum extrudate appearance.
Little die swelling occurs during polysulfone extrusion because
the melt viscosity is largely insensitive to shear rate. Furthermore, the rapid stress relaxation time of the resin results in little orientation in extruded products.
Extruded Product Types

Wire
Udel polysulfone can be extruded onto wire using a semi-tubing or tubing crosshead die. For good adhesion, wire inlet temperatures should approximate that of the polymer melt. High
drawdown of the polymer melt tube can be achieved with Udel
resin. Vacuum on the crosshead is highly recommended to
improve adhesion of the polymer tube to the wire. Coated wire
should not be quenched but rather cooled slowly using a mister
or water bath.
Film
Udel polysulfone has excellent drawdown properties for the
production of thin film, because of its high melt strength.
Slot-cast film possesses excellent optical properties, high
modulus, good impact strength, and good electrical properties
over a wide temperature range. The film is heat sealable and
can be printed without treatment. Udel grade P-1700 is recommended for general film extrusion.
62
Extrusion
Typical film extrusion equipment configuration and conditions

for a 2.5-inch (63 mm) extruder are:
cooling in the vacuum-sizing bath while maintaining dimensional requirements. A water bath only 1/4th to 1/5th as long
as the water bath needed for polyethylene is usually sufficient.
Die Standard film dies of coat hanger design and straight

manifold-choker bar design are satisfactory. Die lip openings of
25 to 40 mils (1 to 1.5 mm) should be used for 1 to 10 mil
(0.025 to 0.25 mm) film. Dies must be capable of continuous
operation at 3,500 psi (24.1 MPa).
Breaker Plates Breaker plates are responsible for so-called
die lines, and they should be replaced with a sleeve, that
allows the die adapter to seal against the extruder.
Casting Roll An 8.5-inch (21.6-cm) diameter roll at 335F
(168C) is required to prevent wrinkling of the film.
Start-Up, Shut-Down, and Purging

Start-Up Procedure
With a non-vented extruder, warm pre-dried resin is charged
into the hopper with water cooling on the throat. The screw
speed should be 15 to 20 rpm until the feed section of the
screw is filled at which point, the speed is decreased to 5 to 10
rpm. This prevents premature pellet fluxing and fouling of the
rear of the screw. After material exits from the die, water cooling of the throat is discontinued and screw speed adjusted to
the required rate.
Shut-Down Procedure
Extruder Temperatures Barrel temperatures from rear to

front should be 575 to 625F (302 to 329C). The die temperature should be 625 to 650F (329 to 343C).
Output Rate These conditions should give an output rate of 3
lb/hr/rpm (1.36 kg/hr/rpm).
Sheet
Standard round and teardrop manifold sheet dies with choker
bars are satisfactory. Sheet thicknesses of 0.020 to 0.125 in.
(0.5 to 3.2 mm) can be produced using a die lip opening of
0.125 in. (3.2 mm).
In sheet extrusion, the take-off roll temperature must be maintained high enough to prevent curl and to minimize strains in
the sheet. For thicknesses up to 0.030 in. (0.8 mm), an S
wrap technique is satisfactory, providing that roll temperatures
of 330 to 380F (166 to 193C) can be obtained. For thicknesses greater than 0.030 in. (0.8 mm), a straight through calendering technique is recommended. This requires maintaining
a small bank in the nip of the two rolls across the width of the
sheet and a roll temperature of 330 to 350F (166 to 177C).
A power shear can be used for cutting the sheet to length for
sheet thicknesses up to 0.125 in. (3.2 mm). For thicker sheet,
sawing is recommended.
Pipe and Tubing

Polysulfone pipe and tubing can be extruded using standard
pin and spider assemblies. Control of stock temperature is critical in achieving desired melt elasticity. For Udel P-1700, a
stock temperature of 580 to 610F (304 to 321C) is suggested. For Udel P-3500, the melt temperature should be 30F
(17C) higher.
If a shut-down is required during a polysulfone extrusion run,

certain precautions should be taken. If the shut-down is of a
short duration, a few hours at most, simply letting the extruder
run dry and restarting using starve feed will be adequate. For
shut-downs longer than a few hours, the extruder should be
run dry and the extruder and die cooled as rapidly as possible
to room temperature. On start-up, the die heaters should be
turned on one or two hours before the extruder heaters. Once
the extruder reaches 550 to 660F (288 to 349C), the screw
can be turned over periodically until extrusion temperatures are
reached. Start-Up is then accomplished using starve feed at
low screw speed until resin emerges from the die.
It is not a good practice to allow thermoplastic resin to sit stagnant in an extruder for prolonged periods of time at extrusion
temperatures. Some decomposition is likely to occur and it may
prove difficult to again start and properly purge the machine.
Purging
Polysulfone can be easily purged with a low melt index,
high-density polyethylene or a low melt index polypropylene. In
purging, the die, adapter, and breaker plate should be removed
after the machine has been run dry of polysulfone. Cool this
equipment to about 550F (288C) and remove the residual
resin by blasting with an air hose.
The temperature of the barrel should be increased to 650F
(343C) and the purge material run through until no more
polysulfone is visible in the purge. Then reduce the temperature to 300F (149C). The screw can then be removed and the
barrel and screw brushed clean. If polysulfone resin continues
to adhere to any tooling, it can be removed by soaking the tooling overnight in a chlorinated solvent, then brushing clean.
Sizing plate and vacuum tank methods of dimensional control

are satisfactory. An extended internal mandrel is not recommended. For best melt control, the extrusion die should be 70
to 100 percent larger than the sizing die.
For high-quality extrusion, stress due to processing must be
minimized. This is accomplished by minimizing the level of
Extrusion
63
Thermoforming
Udel polysulfone sheet must be dry before it can be
thermoformed. If it isnt dry, it foams when subjected to the
heat of the thermoforming operation. Sheet direct from the
extrusion line is dry, and is satisfactory for thermoforming.
Therefore, an integrated, in-line extrusion-thermoforming operation is indicated. However, a tightly wound roll of sheet will
remain suitable for thermoforming for 8 to 16 hours, depending
on humidity conditions and on how long the sheet remained
hot at the wind-up station. Sheet having a thickness of 9 mils
(0.23 mm) or less will not bubble and does not require drying
prior to thermoforming.
Production molds should be metal, and cored for heating with a

fluid transfer medium at 300F (149C). Aluminum or steel
molds are satisfactory, and reproduction of the mold surface is
excellent. Mold shrinkage of Udel polysulfone is a uniform 0.7
percent. Ideally, the mold should operate at 300 to 330F
(149 to 166C) to obtain minimum residual stress, and thus,
maximum environmental stress cracking resistance in the part.
Udel polysulfone sets rapidly. Parts can be demolded at 300 to
350F (149 to 177C).
The design of thermoforming molds for Udel polysulfone should
follow these conventional standards for rigid, amorphous
materials:
Round all corners as generously as part design permits.
Rolls of thin Udel polysulfone sheet can be dried in roll form.

For example, about 20 hours at 275F (135C) is required to
dry 20-mil (0.5 mm) sheet with about a 6-inch (15.2 cm) thickness on a core. The time required for drying any roll will depend
on the actual thickness of the winding, as the entire roll of sheet
must reach a temperature of at least 250F (121 C).
Drying of individual sheets of Udel polysulfone 15 mils (0.4
mm) to 20 mils (0.5 mm) thick can be accomplished by oven
drying at 275F (135C) for 2 hours. For sheet 30 mils (0.75
mm) thick, the time should be extended to 3 hours.
Allow at least 3 draft on shallow parts, and at least 6
draft on deeply drawn parts.

Avoid undercuts.
Drill vacuum holes with a maximum diameter of 1/64 in.
(0.397 mm).
Compression Molding
The actual sheet temperature at the surface must be 450F to

500F (232C to 260C) for thermoforming. Heaters should
have a minimum density of 2 kW/ft2 (21 kW/m2) of heating surface. A heater density of 4 to 5 kW/ft2 (43 to 54 kW/m2) is preferable. Heaters with a density of about 4 kW/ft2 (43 kW/m2) and
set at 800F (426C) within about 3 in. (7.6 cm.) of both sides
of 20 mil Udel polysulfone sheet will heat the sheet in about 15
seconds. Single side heating can be used for sheet up to about
90 mils (23 mm) thick.
During heating, the sheet will appear to draw tight, and then
start to buckle between the clamps as the strains are relieved.
The sheet will then draw almost uniformly tight, and then start
to sag. At this point, it is ready for molding. Heated Udel
polysulfone sheet will sag relatively quickly, particularly in the
heavier gauges when the weight is higher. It must be indexed
rapidly over the mold, and sufficient clearance over the lower
heaters must be provided.
Most of the conventional thermoforming methods such as vacuum forming, pressure forming, plug assist, and snap to back
have been used successfully with Udel polysulfone sheet. Parts
with an area ratio as high as 9:1 have been formed
commercially.
To compression mold a 1 in. (25 mm) thick slab of polysulfone

8.5 in (216 mm) long and 8.5 in. (216 mm) wide for machining
into prototype parts or shapes, the following procedure is
suggested.
1. Load the mold cavity with 1,520 grams of Udel P-1700
pellets.
2. Heat both press platens to 560F (293C)
3. Place a -in. (13-mm) thick insulating board on top of the
(1)
mold. Place the mold in the press and close the press.
4. Apply 20 tons (18,144 kg) pressure and hold for 1 hour.
5. Open press and remove the insulating board and reapply
(2)
pressure for another 10 minutes
6. Cool the platens to 250F (121C), then release the pressure and remove the mold from the press and separate.
To make a slab the same size except 0.5 in. (13 mm) thick, use
the above procedure with these modifications. In step 1, use
760 grams of Udel P-1700 resin. In step 4, reduce the time to
30 minutes.
(1) The insulating board is needed so that heating will occur only from one side. Two
side heating causes gas entrapment to occur in the center.

(2) Final two-side heating removes bubble formation in the top surface.
Thermoformed prototypes can be produced with many types of

molds such as wood, metal-filled epoxy, or cast aluminum.
Hard wood molds only last for about 10 to 30 parts because of
the high temperature conditions. Cast epoxy molds may last for
100 to 300 parts. Cast aluminum molds are capable of producing several thousand parts.
64
Compression Molding
Secondary Operations
Cleaning and degreasing
Vertrol XF from E.I. DuPont is recommended for vapor
degreasing and cleaning polysulfone parts.
Since annealing is a complex subject and it can produce unintended consequences, it is advisable to contact your Solvay
technical service representative for additional guidance suited
to your specific situation.
Annealing
Rapid Annealing
Annealing can also be accomplished by immersing the parts in
a liquid, such as glycerine, at 330F (166C) for a few minutes.
It is recommended that the parts be immersed in boiling water
for 5 minutes prior to placing them in the glycerine. When the
annealing is finished, the parts should again be immersed in
boiling water for 5 minutes. This procedure has a time advantage in that annealing in completed in a few minutes as
opposed to a few hours in air. The recommended annealing
times for various thicknesses is shown in Table 46.
Like other high performance amorphous thermoplastics,

polysulfone crazes or cracks when exposed to certain aggressive environments while under stress. For example, solvents
such as acetone and toluene will cause crazing or cracking in
polysulfone containing high residual stresses. Laboratory tests
and field experience show that such solvents can be tolerated
in cleaning operations if the polysulfone parts are stress
relieved prior to exposure by annealing. However, annealing is
an added expense and will result in a loss of tensile elongation
and impact properties.
Processing for Low Residual Stress

Before considering annealing, make every effort to mold or
extrude at conditions to produce lowest stress. Parts should be
taken from the processing operation at the highest possible
temperature consistent with good final part formation, because
cooling slowly results in lower residual stress.
To achieve low stress in injection molding, follow the recommended molding conditions and use a mold temperature of
280 to 300F (138 to 149C). Similarly, for pipe, tube, and
profile extrusion, minimum downstream cooling should be
used.
The disadvantages of liquid annealing include the obvious

problems of handling hot parts and hot liquids. Liquid annealing is a surface phenomenon and aggressive media, under
some conditions, may still attack the material.
Applications requiring chemical or solvent resistance may be
better suited for the grades containing glass fiber reinforcement. These materials usually have sufficient stress cracking
resistance without annealing.
Table 46
Annealing Time in Glycerine at 330F (166C)

Part Thickness
Annealing in Air
Where annealing must be used, treating the parts in a
circulating air oven at 330F (166C) for 30 minutes is
recommended. This annealing treatment removes most of the
residual fabrication stresses without significantly affecting
resin toughness performance attributes such as tensile
elongation. More vigorous annealing at a temperature of 338
F (170 C) for one hour can be used in special circumstances
or if complete residual stress removal is an absolute necessity.
The more aggressive set of annealing conditions is less
desirable as it can reduce resin toughness attributes.
in.
mm
Annealing Time, min
0.060
1.5
0.75
0.100
2.5
1.50
0.125
3.2
2.00
0.250
6.3
4.00
0.375
9.5
5.00
To evaluate the stress level in a part following annealing, a one

minute dip of the part in ethyl acetate can be performed. If the
part shows no cracking, it can be considered essentially
stress-free. If cracking does occur in ethyl acetate, a similar
test can be performed in a 75/25 (by volume) ethyl acetate/ethanol mixture. Absence of cracking in this mixture indicates a
stress level of less than 800 psi (6 MPa).
Annealing
65
Machining
Sawing
Udel resins may be machined with normal metal working tools.

Because of their high softening temperatures, relatively high
cutting speeds can be used without gumming.
Polysulfone can be sawed with any type of saw. Wood-cutting

blades work somewhat better than metal-cutting blades. Regular pitch, 18 teeth/in. (0.7 teeth/mm.) band saw blades cut well.
A ten-pitch blade also gives good results. Sawing conditions
are generally not critical.
However, where low stress in finished parts is desired for

hydrolytic stability or chemical resistance, slower speeds and
very sharp tooling are suggested. The slow speed, sharp tool
approach develops less heat in the machined surface resulting
in lower stress.
Turning
Conventional variable-speed, metal-turning lathes with either a
round-nose or a pointed tool can be used. The recommended
configuration for sharp tools is a 3 rake angle, a 10 clearance
angle, and a 5 side angle. A round-nose tool typically gives a
smoother finish.
All machining operations cause some increase in stress and,

depending on the environment to be encountered in end use,
annealing of the finished part may be necessary.
Polysulfone can be turned at high speed, up to 900 to 1,000

ft/min (4.6 to 5.1 m/sec), but best results are obtained at
approximately 300 ft/min (1.5 m/sec). No coolant or lubricant is
required for threading or turning.
Coolants
If coolants are needed, plain water can be used. Most machining coolants for metal should not be used because they are
incompatible with Udel polysulfone.
A feed rate of 0.002 to 0.004 in/rev (0.051 to 0.102 mm/rev)

and a cut depth of 0.020 in. (0.51 mm) will provide a good cut
with a good finish.
One commercial coolant that is, when used at recommended

concentrations, compatible with Udel polysulfone is Cimcool
Cimtech 95 from Milacron Marketing.
Milling and Routing
Drilling
Normal steel-working tools work well with polysulfone. A configuration of 12 to 15 clearance angle, 118 point angle, and
5 rake angle may be used for any drilling operation.
Small holes can be enlarged readily without chipping. When
drilling completely through a piece of polysulfone, there is a
tendency for the drill to break out of the bottom of the piece or
chip the edge of the hole. This can be eliminated by backing up
the piece and reducing the rate of feed.
Milling and routing are readily accomplished at high speeds

without coolants or lubricants. Tools for aluminum work well.
For example, a groove 0.5 in. (13 mm) wide and 0.100 in. (2.5
mm) deep can be end milled at 1,750 rpm with a feed rate of
4.5 in/min (114 mm/min).
Standard high-speed twist drills are recommended. Cutting

speeds of 300 ft/min (90 m/min) at feed rates of 0.005 to
0.015 in/rev (0.15 to 0.40 mm/rev) are recommended
Tapping
Standard steel working taps work well with polysulfone. Lubricants or cutting oils are not required, although a light lubricating oil may be used to reduce tap wear.
A two or three flute tap may be used at speeds of 35 to 75
ft/min (11 to 23 m/min) with good results.
66
Machining
Finishing and Decorating
Printing
Udel resins are an excellent substrate for finishes and virtually

any decorative or functional finishing requirement can be met.
Udel resin can be successfully printed by silk-screen and

pad-transfer printing techniques. Pad transfer printing offers
economies resulting from high speed reproduction. It also
allows the reproduction of images in one or more colors, using
simultaneous multi-color printing equipment. The silk-screening process is primarily used for limited volumes. Although
slower than the pad transfer process, silk-screening permits
the decoration of contoured surfaces, making this method ideal
for many molded parts.
Painting
Various colors can be applied to Udel resin using organic paints
and conventional application techniques. Painting may be an
economical means of achieving a desired appearance.
Good adhesion with no embrittlement is a critical paint requirement. For proper paint adhesion, removal of foreign matter,
such as dirt, oil, grease, and mold release, from the part surface is critical. When contaminants are present, parts should be
cleaned first. Properly handled parts may not need any cleaning
and can be painted without such treatment.
Although rolling and dipping are sometimes used, spray painting is the usual method of paint application.
The selection of paint is dependent upon the desired decorative
finish or functional requirement, and the application technique.
Among the coatings used are polyurethane, polyester, epoxy,
acrylic, and alkyd.
Depending upon the paint, the cure may be air drying or oven
baking. If baking is required, the high thermal resistance of
Udel resins allows the use of relatively high oven temperatures.
Electroplating
Many inks show good adhesion to Udel resin. Surface

pretreatments, such as those commonly used to promote
adhesion on polyolefins, are not required.
Because polysulfone has excellent resistance to hydrolysis, it is
often used in applications that involve exposure to steam, hot
water, and chemicals. Printing inks used on parts for these
applications must also be hydrolytically stable if the appearance and adhesion is to be maintained. Inks based on two-part
epoxy resin systems are being successfully used in these
applications. The maximum resistance to external environments is achieved with formulations that are heat cured to
maximize cross-linking in the epoxy. Such inks are available for
silk-screen and pad printing from many vendors.
Other suitable decorating methods include hot stamping,
flexographic film printing, and laser etching.
Electroplated plastic parts are very durable and provide lightweight replacement for die castings and sheet metal. After a
special pretreatment to form a conductive surface on the plastic part, it can be put through electroplating processes similar
to those used in plating metals.
Vacuum Metallizing
Hot Stamping
For most thermoplastics, the first step of the vacuum

metallizing process is the application of a base coat of enamel
or lacquer to provide leveling of the part surface and improve
the surface brilliance. The base coat also functions as an adhesive, linking the molded part and the metallic coating.
Udel resins have been successfully vacuum metallized to

accept a decorative or functional metallic coating. Although
aluminum is the most frequently used coating, other metals
such as gold, silver, brass, and copper may also be used.
Hot stamping is a one-step, economical process for transferring a high-quality image to a plastic part. A heated die transfers the pattern from the transfer tape to a flat plastic surface.
Patterns can vary from lettering to decorative designs in pigmented, wood grain, or metallic finishes.
Udel resin can be successfully hot stamped using either roll-on
or vertical action application equipment. The application conditions require no special procedures, and the die temperature,
pressure, and dwell time are within conventional ranges.
The part is then placed in a vacuum chamber in which a metallic vapor is created and deposited on the part. A protective,
clear top coat is then applied over the thin metal layer for abrasion and environmental resistance. The high thermal resistance
of Udel resins allow the use of durable, abrasion resistant coatings that require high-temperature bake conditions.
The application of metallic surfaces to molded parts tends to
emphasize mold defects; therefore mold surfaces should be
highly polished.
Finishing and Decorating
67
Some additional suggestions to ensure the best results are as

follows:
Assembly and Joining
The welding horn should have a suitable contact area
Ultrasonic Bonding
The joint/weld area should be located as close as possible
Ultrasonic bonding is an assembly technique that is used to

bond plastic parts together. This technique is very rapid and
can be fully automated for high-speed and high-volume production. Ultrasonic bonding requires attention to details like
joint design, welding variables, fixturing, and moisture content.
The principle involved in ultrasonic joint design is to initially
concentrate the energy in a small contact area. The high frequency vibration melts the material, pressure is maintained
while the vibrations stop and the melt solidifies. The bond that
is formed may be as strong as the original material.
Weldability is dependent upon the concentration of the vibratory energy per unit area. Compared to polycarbonate, Udel
resins have higher melting temperatures and require more
energy to melt the material and achieve flow at the joint.
The basic butt joint with energy director is shown in Figure 66.
The V-shaped energy director concentrates the ultrasonic
energy to this area, which quickly melts and creates a melt
pool as the parts are pressed together. A mating flow channel
is preferred in cases where an hermetic seal is desired.
to the point where the welding horn contacts the plastic

part
Mating surfaces should be small
Joint design should allow for adequate flow of molten material.
Hot Plate Welding

This method requires a hot plate or other suitable heat source
capable of attaining 700F (371C), coated with a non-stick
surface such as polytetrafluoroethylene. The surfaces to be
welded are pressed against the hot plate set at 700F (371C)
for about ten seconds and then joined immediately. Because
polysulfone contains a small amount of moisture, it is desirable
to dry it for 3 to 6 hours at 250F (121C) before attempting to
heat weld. A suitable fixture is necessary for fast, proper alignment of the pieces. Metal fixtures heated to about 350F
(177C) have been used successfully.
Polysulfone can also be joined to metal using the direct heat
weld method. To join polysulfone to aluminum, the metal
should be heated to 700F (371C) and placed directly against
the dried polysulfone part. When a typical lap shear sample
was made in this manner and tested for tensile shear strength,
the polysulfone bar failed rather than the joint.
With cold-rolled steel, it is necessary to first prime the metal
surface with a 5 to 10 percent solution of polysulfone. The
primer should be dried for 10 minutes at 500F (260C). The
primed piece should then be heated to 500 to 600F (260 to
315C) before adhering it to the polysulfone.
Figure 66
Energy Director Design
W/8
W/4
68
Solvent Bonding
Figure 67
Solvent bonding is a fast and economical method for joining

some plastics. The process involves the application of a liquid
solvent to the surfaces to be joined. The solvent softens and/or
dissolves the polymer on the surfaces, The softened surfaces
are pressed together and held until the solvent evaporates.
Under ideal circumstances a true weld is formed.
Joint Designs for Adhesive Bonding
Simple Lap Joint
Solvent bonding of components molded from Udel resins is not

generally recommended because the solvents known to be
effective, such as methylene chloride, may present health
hazards.
Offset Lap Joint
Double Scarf Lap Joint
Spin Welding
Spin welding is a rapid technique for joining parts with circular
joint interfaces. While one part is held fixed, the rotating part
contacts it with a specified pressure. Frictional heat is generated at the joint between the surfaces. After the melting
occurs, relative motion is halted and the weld is allowed to
solidify under pressure.
Tongue and Groove Joint
Scarf Tongue and Groove Joint
Adhesive Bonding
Parts molded from Udel resin can be bonded to other parts
molded from Udel resin or bonded to other materials using
commercially available adhesives. The success of adhesive
bonding is very dependent on the joint design and applied
stresses, as well as end use environmental factors such as
operating temperature and chemical exposure.
Butt Scarf Lap Joint
Adhesives frequently recommended for thermoplastics are

epoxies, acrylics, phenolics, polyurethanes, polyesters, and
vinyls. Specific adhesive recommendations can be obtained
from the adhesive suppliers. However, the designer should test
the performance of the joint in the actual end-use environment.
It is also critical that the bond surface is free of any contaminants, such as grease, oil, fingerprints, or mold release, which
can weaken the bond. In some cases, the surfaces to be
bonded must be chemically etched or mechanically roughened
to allow the adhesive to gain a firm grip. Clamping pressure
should be sufficient to insure adequate interface contact, but
not so high that the parts are deformed or that solvent is forced
from the joint.
The joint area should be designed so that the two parts fit precisely together. Figure 67 shows recommended joint designs
for adhesive bonding. Parts should be molded with low residual
stresses and to accurate dimensions.
69
Mechanical Fasteners
Threaded Inserts
Fasteners frequently used with injection molded plastic parts

include screws, bolts, nuts, lock washers, and lock nuts. When
using metal mechanical fasteners, good design practice should
be used to avoid overstressing the plastic parts in the
assembly.
Threaded metal inserts provide permanent metallic machine

threads in the plastic part. The inserts come in a wide variety of
sizes and types. Inserts are usually installed in molded bosses
that have an internal diameter designed for the insert. Some
inserts are forced into the boss while others are installed by
methods that create lower stress and stronger attachments.
The most obvious procedure for preventing a high-stress

assembly is to control the tightening of the mechanical fasteners with adjusted torque-limiting drivers. When torque cannot
be controlled, as might be the case with field assembly, shoulder screws can limit compression on the plastic part. Other
alternatives are the use of flange-head screws, large washers,
or shoulder washers. Figure 68 presents some preferred
designs when using mechanical fasteners.
Ultrasonic inserts are very popular. They are installed with the
same equipment used for ultrasonic welding. Because ultrasonic welding melts material around the metal insert, the
installation is usually strong and relatively free of stress.
Besides female threads, inserts can be threaded male styles,
locating pins and bushings. Recommendations for installation
procedures and boss dimensions can be obtained from the
insert supplier.
Figure 68
Self-Tapping Screws
Designing for Mechanical Fasteners
Poor
Self-tapping screws are suitable for use with Udel resins.

Self-tapping screws provide an economical method for joining
plastics because they eliminate the need for molding an internal thread or a separate tapping operation.
Better
High bending stress

as bolt is tightened
Added bosses with small gap,

when bosses touch, stress
becomes compressive
Flathead screw
Truss or round head screw
High stress from wedging

action of screw head
Recessed design avoids

wedging stresses
The major types of self-tapping screws are thread-forming and

thread-cutting. Each type has advantages and disadvantages.
Thread-cutting screws physically remove material, like a
machine tap, to form the thread. The thread-cutting screws
provide lower boss stresses that require lower driving torque
and result in lower stripping torque and pullout strength.
Thread-forming screws deform the material into which they are
driven, forming threads in the plastic part. Thread-forming
screws produce higher boss stress, and require higher driving
torque, but provide higher stripping torque and pullout strength.
Figure 69
Boss Design for Self-Tapping Screws

Standard screw can allow
high stress on tightening
Shoulder screw limits

stress when tightened
Boss O. D.
= 2 x Thread Diameter
Thread Diameter
Molded-In Threads
With molded-in threads mating male and female threads are
molded into the parts to be assembled. Molded internal threads
usually require some type of unscrewing or collapsing mechanism in the tool.
M inim um Radius 0.015 in. (0.4 m m )
In some cases, external threads can be molded by splitting

them across the parting line. Molding very fine threads which
exceed 28 pitch is usually not practical.
70
The choice of screw type is best determined by prototype

testing.
Figure 70
Boss Design for Ultrasonic Inserts
Figure 69 illustrates the basic guidelines for designing with

self-tapping screws. These include:
Use a hole diameter equal to the pitch diameter of the
Insert Diameter
screw for the highest ratio of stripping to driving torque.

Use a boss diameter equal to 2 times the screw diameter.
Too thin a boss may crack and no increase in stripping
torque is achieved with thicker bosses.
Use a thread engagement of 2.5 times the pitch diameter
of the screw. Stripping torque increase rapidly with increasing length of engagement until the engaged length is
about 2.5 times the pitch diameter of the screw.
Use torque controlled drivers on assembly lines to avoid
stripping or high stress assemblies.
Avoid repeated assembly and disassembly when using
self-tapping screws. If repeated assembly is required, thread
forming screws are recommended.
Boss diameter =
2x insert diameter
t
0.7 t
Ultrasonic Inserts
Metal parts can be ultrasonically inserted into plastic parts as
an alternative to molded-in or pressed-in inserts. With proper
design, ultrasonic insertion results in lower residual stresses
compared to other methods of insertion.
There are several varieties of ultrasonic inserts available and all
are very similar in design principle. Pressure and ultrasonic
vibration of the inserts melt the material at the metal-plastic
interface and drive the insert into a molded or drilled hole. The
plastic, melted and displaced by the large diameter of the
insert, flows into one or more recesses, solidifies and locks the
insert in place.
Figure 70 depicts the recommended insert and boss designs
for use with Udel resin.
71
Index
A
Annealing 66
Abrasion Resistance 40
Acetic Acid 34
Acetone 34, 36
acetone 66
Adhesive Bonding 70
Ammonia
Permeability to 40
Annealing 66
Antifreeze 38
Apparent or Creep Modulus 16
Assembly and Joining 69, 70
ASTM D 1822 13
ASTM D 256 11
ASTM D 638 7
ASTM D 695 10
ASTM D 696 19
ASTM D 790 9
ASTM E 132 14
Auto-Ignition Temperature 24
Automotive Blade Fuses 25
Automotive Fluids - ESCR 38
Automotive Fuses 25
B
Back Pressure 57
Barrel Temperatures 57
Battery Container 48
Beam Bending 43
Bending Stress 43
Benzene 33
Bonding
Adhesive 70
Solvent 70
Ultrasonic 69
Bosses 52
Brake Fluid 34
Butanol 34
Butter 39
C
Chemical Resistance 33, 34
Calcium Chloride 34
Calculating Deflection 47
Carbon Dioxide
Permeability to 40
Carbon Tetrachloride 33, 34
Charpy 12
Chromic Acid 34
Citric Acid 34
Classification of Thermoplastic Resins 17
Cleaning and degreasing 66
CLTE 19
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion 5, 6, 19
Coffee Brewer 8
Combustion Properties 23
Compression Molding 65
Compressive Properties 10
Coolants for Machining 67
Coring 52
Corn Oil 39
Creep 15, 16
Creep Modulus 16
cross-linked polyethylene 3
Comparative Tracking Index 28
Cyclohexane 34
Glow Wire Testing 24

Glycerine 34, 66
High-Current Arc Ignition 28

Hardness
Rockwell 41
Helium
Permeability to 40
Horizontal Burning Test 23
Hot Chlorinated Water 32
Hot Plate Welding 69
Hot Stamping 68
Hot Water
Effects of Long-Term Exposure 30
High-Voltage Arc-Tracking-Rate 28
Hot Wire Ignition 28
Hydraulic Oil 34
Hydrochloric Acid 33, 34, 37
Hydrofluoric Acid 34
Hydrogen
Permeability to 40
Hydrogen Peroxide 34
Hydrolytic Stability 30
High-Voltage, Low-Current Dry Arc Resistance 27

Decorating 68
Deflection Temperature under Load 19
Demolding 59
Density 24
Design allowable 48
Design Limits 48
Designing for Injection Molding 51, 53
Designing for Stiffness 46
Designing for Sustained Load 47
Die Design 63
Dielectric Constant 5, 6, 27
Dielectric Strength 5, 6, 27
Diesel Fuel 34
Diethylene glycol monoethyl ether 34
Dip Tubes 55
Dissipation Factor 5, 6, 27
Draft and Ejection 56
Draft Angle 51
Drilling 67
Drying 54, 62
E
Electrical Properties 27, 28, 29
Electroplating 68
Energy Director Design 69
Environmental Resistance 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35,
36, 37, 38, 39
Equipment 56, 62
Ethanol 34
Ethoxyethanol 36
Ethyl Acetate 34, 36
Extruded Product Types 63
Extrusion 62, 63, 64
Extrusion Blow Molding 62
Extrusion Temperatures 63
F
Falling Dart Impact 13
Fasteners
Mechanical 71, 72
Faucet Cartridge 4, 14, 21
Feed Characteristics 57
Film 63
Finishing and Decorating 68
Flash Ignition Temperature 24
Flexural Properties 9, 18
Temperature Effects on 18
Flexural Test Apparatus 9
FM Mattsson 21
Foods and Related Products 39
Formic Acid 34
Functional Fluids
Resistance to 34
Fuses 25
I
Impact Properties 11
Impact Resistance
Charpy 12
Falling Dart 13
Gardner 13
Izod 11
Tensile Impact 13
Increasing Section Thickness 46
Industrial Battery Container 48
Injection Molding 51, 53, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61
Injection Molding Equipment 56
Injection Molding Temperatures 57
Injection Rate and Venting 57
Inorganic chemicals 37
Inorganic Chemicals
Resistance to 34
Insert Fitting 3
Interference Fits 50
Interference fits, calculating allowable interference
50
Isopropanol 36
Izod 11
Izod Impact Test Apparatus 11
J
Jet Fuel JP-4 34
K
Kerosene 34
Keurig 8
L
Long Term Exposure to Hot Water 30
Long-Term Creep Properties 15, 16
Gasoline 34, 38
Gates 56, 57, 58
Glass Transition Temperature 17
Machine Settings 57
Machining 67
Manifold 41
- 72 -
Margarine 39
Mattsson 21
Maximum Permissible Strains
Snap-Fit Designs 53
Measuring Residual Stress 61
Mechanical Design 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50
Mechanical Fasteners 71, 72
Mechanical Properties 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12,
13, 14
Mechanical Property Changes 17
Metallizing
Vacuum 68
Methane
Permeability to 40
Methanol 36
Methyl Ethyl Ketone 33, 36
Methylene Chloride 36
Milk 39
Milling and Routing 67
Moen 4
Mold Releases 59
Mold Temperature Control 57
Mold Temperatures 57
Molded-in Threads 71
Molding Conditions - Starting Point 56
Molding Process 57
Molds 56, 57
Moment of Inertia 43
Motor Oil 34, 38
N
Nitric Acid 34
Nitrogen
Permeability to 40
Notch Sensitivity 12
Notched Izod 11, 30, 31
Nozzles 56
O
Oleic Acid 34
Olive Oil 39
Optical Properties 42
Organic chemicals 36
Stress Crack Resistance 36
Organic Chemicals
Resistance to 34
Oxalic Acid 34
Oxygen
Permeability to 40
Oxygen Index 5, 6, 24
P
Painting 68
Peanut Oil 39
Permeability 40
Phosphoric Acid 34
Physical Properties 40, 41, 42
Pipe and Tubing 64
Poissons Ratio 14
Potassium Hydroxide 34
Power Steering Fluid 38
Predrying 63
Printing 68
Process Conditions 62
Processing for Low Residual Stress 66
PureTouch 4
Purging 64
R
Ribs to Maintain Stiffness 46
Radiation Resistance 33
Regrind 61
Relative Thermal Index 26
Residence Time in the Barrel 57
Rheology 55
Ribs 46, 47, 52
Rockwell Hardness 5, 6, 41
Routing 67
RTI 26
S
Saft 48
Sawing 67
Screw Design 56, 63
Screw Design Recommendations 63
Screw Speed 57
Screw Tips and Check Valves 56
Self-tapping Screws 71
Shear Properties 10
Sheet 64, 65
Shrinkage 56, 59
Shut-down 64
Shut-down Procedure 64
Smoke Density 24
Snap-fits 53
Sodium Hydroxide 37
Sodium Hypochlorite 37
Solvent Bonding 70
Specific Heat 21
Specific Volume 22
Spin Welding 70
Stability
Hydrolytic 30
Thermal 25
Start-up Procedure 64
Start-up, Shut-down, and Purging 64
Steam Sterilization Analysis 32
Stress Concentrations 49
Stress Crack Resistance 36, 37, 38, 39
Stress Cracking Resistance 35
Stress Levels 43
Stress-Strain Calculations 43
Stress-Strain Curves 9
Sulfur Hexafluoride
Permeability to 40
Sulfuric Acid 34, 37
Surface Resistivity 27
T
Tapping 67, 71
Temperature
Effect on Flexural Properties 18
Effect on Tensile Properties 18
Glass Transition 17
Tensile creep 15
Tensile Creep in water 16
Tensile Impact 5, 6, 13, 32
Tensile Properties 7, 18
Temperature Effects on 18
Tensile Stress 9, 43
Thermal Aging 26
Thermal Conductivity 5, 6, 21
- 73 -
Thermal Expansion Coefficient 5, 6, 19

Thermal Properties 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24,
25, 26
Thermal Stability 25
Thermoforming 65
Thermogravimetric Analysis 25
Thermostatic Faucet Cartridge 21
Threaded Inserts 71
Threads 49, 71
toluene 66
Transmission Fluid 38
Transmission Oil 34
Trichloroethane 34, 36
Troubleshooting Guide 60
Turning 67
Typical Property Tables 4
U
UL 27
UL 746A Short-Term Properties 27
UL 94 23
UL Relative Thermal Index 27
UL Thermal Index 26
Ultrasonic Bonding 69
Ultrasonic Inserts 72
Underwriters' Laboratories 27
Underwriters Laboratories 26
V
Vertical Burn Test - 20 MM 23
Vacuum Metallizing 68
Vanguard 3, 41
Vegetable Oil 39
Venting 57
Vernet 14
Vicat Softening Point 21
Volume Resistivity 5, 27
W
Wall Thickness 51
Wall Thickness Variation 51
Water Absorption 5, 6, 40
Water Distribution 41
Water Distribution Manifold 41
Water Heater 55
Water heater dip tubes 55
Wear resistance 40
Weathering 30
Windshield Washer Concentrate 38
Wire 24, 28, 29, 63
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Health and Safety Information

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for products of Solvay Advanced Polymers are available upon
request from your sales representative or by e-mailing us at advancedpolymers@solvay.com.
Always consult the appropriate MSDS before using any of our products.
To our actual knowledge, the information contained herein is accurate as of the date of this document. However, neither Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC nor any of its affiliates makes any warranty,
express or implied, or accepts any liability in connection with this information or its use. This information is for use by technically skilled persons at their own discretion and risk and does not relate
to the use of this product in combination with any other substance or any other process. This is not
a license under any patent or other proprietary right. The user alone must finally determine suitability
of any information or material for any contemplated use, the manner of use and whether any
patents are infringed. This information gives typical properties only and is not to be used for specification purposes. Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC reserves the right to make additions, deletions,
or modifications to the information at any time without prior notification.
Udel is a registered trademark of Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC

U-50244 2002 Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC. All rights reserved. D03/07
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design guide
version 2.1
North America
Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC
Alpharetta, GA USA
Phone 800.621.4557 (USA only)
+1.770.772.8200
South America
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Advanced Polymers
polysulfone

Polysulfone Design Guide PDF

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Our semi-crystalline aromatic polyamides:

Ixef polyarylamide (PA MXD6)

Additional semi-crystalline polymers:

Xydar liquid crystal polymer (LCP)

Our SolvaSpire family of ultra polymers:

AvaSpire modified PEEK

Our family of amorphous sulfone polymers:

PrimoSpire self-reinforced polyphenylene (SRP)

Udel polysulfone (PSU)

EpiSpire high-temperature sulfone (HTS)

Mindel modified polysulfone

Torlon polyamide-imide (PAI)

Radel R polyphenylsulfone (PPSU)

Formerly Parmax SRP by Mississippi Polymer Technologies, Inc., a company acquired

Radel A polyethersulfone (PESU)

Acudel modified polyphenylsulfone

Udel polysulfone resins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Screw Design Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Weight Change in Flowing Chlorinated Water . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Typical Properties* of Udel Polysulfone (U.S. Units) . . . . . . . . . 5

Property Retention after Steam Autoclave Exposure. . . . . . . . 32

Typical Properties* of Udel Resins ( SI Units) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Gamma Radiation Resistance of Udel Polysulfone . . . . . . . . . 33

Compressive Properties of Udel Polysulfone . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

General Indication of Polysulfone Chemical Resistance . . . . . . . 33

Shear Strength of Udel Polysulfone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Chemical Resistance of Udel P-1700 Resin by Immersion for 7

Coefficient of Linear Thermal Expansion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Calculated Stresses for Strained ESCR Test Bars . . . . . . . . . 35

Key to Environmental Stress Cracking Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Vicat Softening Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Environmental Stress Cracking Resistance to Organic Chemicals

Specific Volume (cm3/g) of PSU as a Function of Temperature

Environmental Stress Cracking Resistance to Inorganic Chemicals after 24-Hour Exposure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Allowable Design Stress for Constant Load, psi (MPa) . . . . . . 48

Hot Wire Ignition Performance Level Categories. . . . . . . . . . . 28

Starting Point Molding Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

High-Current Arc Ignition

Properties of Udel P-1700 After 4 Moldings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Short-Term Electrical Properties per UL 746A . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Annealing Time in Glycerine at 330F (166C). . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Weight Change in Static Chlorinated Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Maximum Permissible Strains for Snap-Fit Designs. . . . . . . . 53

Reagents for Residual Stress Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Thermogravimetric Analysis in Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Stress-Strain Curve Insert

Tensile Strength of Udel P-1700 after Heat Aging . . . . . . . . . 26

Glass Fiber Increases Tensile Strength. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Tensile Strength After 194F (90C) Water Exposure . . . . . . . 30

Glass Fiber increases Stiffness of Udel Polysulfone . . . . . . . . . 8

Tensile Elongation After 194F (90C) Water Exposure. . . . . . 31

Tensile Stress-Strain Curve for Udel Resins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9