Cost-effective moldable and thermoformable plastic sheet for aviation and transport interior applications, medical equipment, equipment housings, and more.
Kydex® is a machinable thermoplastic with electrical insulating properties that may be molded or formed into nearly any shape. Available in a number of colors, textures, and patterns, Kydex® is easy to clean and is suitable for a wide range of applications and industries.
Properties
Thermoformable
Durable
Good electrical properties
Can be drilled, brake formed, or punch pressed
Cost-effective
Applications
Exhibits and kiosks
Medical equipment
Knife sheaths
Transit interior parts
Furniture components
Industries
Aviation
Automotive
Mass Transit
Medical
Emerging Technology
Kydex® Overview
What is Kydex®?
Kydex® is a durable extruded acrylic-PVC alloy plastic sheet with high impact strength and electrical insulation properties. With superior formability, fabrication, and tooling quality, Kydex® is frequently utilized in the aviation, transportation, medical, and construction industries.
Kydex® sheet is made from an extremely durable acrylic-PVC extruded alloy. Kydex® sheet combines the rigidity and formability of acrylic with the durability and chemical resistance of PVC and comes in a range of colors, textures, and patterns.
How durable is Kydex®?
Kydex? is extremely durable - it has great impact strength and resists both scratches and gouging that would mar other materials such as painted metal. Kydex? sheets can be drilled, brake formed, or punch pressed. It resists chemicals and corrosion and may be cleaned with tougher chemical cleaners without damaging the sheet surface.
Is Kydex® the same as ABS?
Though the two may look similar visually, Kydex® is not the same material as ABS. Kydex® sheet is made from extruded acrylic-PVC alloy, while ABS is made from a blend of acrylonitrile, butadiene, and styrene. Although both materials are known for their electrical properties, Kydex® has better impact resistance and flexibility while ABS withstands higher temperatures.
General Properties1 of Kydex®
Property
Unit
Value
Specific Gravity
---
1.35
Tensile Strength
psi
6100
Flexural Strength
psi
9100
Modulus of Elasticity
ksi
320
Izod Impact (Notched)
ft-lbs/in.
10
Heat Deflection Temperature
°F
137
Forming Temperature
°F
325-390
Mold Shrinkage
%
0.4-0.6
1The values listed are typical and are meant only as a guide to aid in design. Field testing is always recommended to determine exact values for each application.
WARNING: The products on this page can expose you to chemicals including Vinyl Chloride, CAS 75-01-4, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to www.p65warnings.ca.gov.