Yes. Several of our lathes and mills, such as the G9729, G0602, G0752, G0704, and G0759, include at least one gear made from polyoxymethylene (POM), a high-performance engineering thermoplastic.

The use of POM gears is intentional and beneficial, not a cost-cutting shortcut. This material offers several advantages over traditional metal gears in specific applications.

Why use POM gears?

• Noise reduction: Machines with POM gears run quieter, which is especially helpful in small workshops or shared spaces.
• Smooth operation: POM gears help the machine run more consistently, improving the overall user experience.

What makes POM a good choice?

POM is selected for these components because it has:

• High stiffness
• Low friction
• Excellent dimensional stability

It resists wear, handles repeated stress, and keeps its shape even in changing temperatures and humidity. These qualities make it ideal for transmitting power while reducing vibration and mechanical noise.

Isn’t plastic weaker than metal?

It’s important to understand that POM is not ordinary plastic. It is a durable, high-precision material commonly used in automotive and mechanical applications.

Including POM in the drivetrain of lathes and mills reflects a modern engineering approach that balances performance, longevity, and user comfort.

Is POM used just to save money?

No. In fact, POM costs more per pound than metal. The savings come from manufacturing efficiencies, such as:

• Reduced tooling costs compared to metal dies
• Lighter weight, which simplifies handling
• Less scrap material
• Easier assembly

These factors help keep machines affordable while maintaining high performance and durability.