Orinko Leads Domestic Breakthrough in Long-Chain Nylon

In the era of global automotive electrification, long-chain nylons such as PA612 and PA1012 are becoming essential materials for key components in new energy vehicles (NEVs), including cooling systems and hydrogen storage tanks. Their exceptional performance—including high temperature resistance, chemical stability, and hydrolysis resistance—has made them industry necessities. However, this segment has long been dominated by overseas suppliers, resulting in high costs and unstable supply, posing a serious threat to China’s industrial security.

Orinko has successfully broken through these long-standing technical barriers. Beginning in 2020, the company launched R&D on high-performance PA materials for NEV cooling systems. After comprehensive screening and evaluation, PA612 was selected as the core material. Through proprietary in-situ viscosity control and melt behavior modification technologies, Orinko developed high-quality PA612 resins. These materials passed rigorous mechanical, thermal, and hydrolysis resistance testing, meeting stringent requirements for both inside and outside EV battery packs.

The PA612 materials were formed into finished cooling pipes by top domestic manufacturers and certified by leading NEV automakers. Orinko’s PA612 has since entered mass production and become China’s first long-chain nylon product used at scale in NEV core systems. With a melting point of 215°C (significantly higher than comparable materials), Orinko’s PA612 better withstands the sharp temperature rises caused by increased battery capacity. It also meets stricter standards for low extractable content in multi-layer fuel lines and offers significant cost advantages over imported alternatives such as PA9T and ETFE.

This success is underpinned by Orinko's robust three-tier R&D system:

• The Central Research Institute focuses on cutting-edge and disruptive innovation;

• The R&D Center builds core technology platforms and reserves;

• Cluster-based business units rapidly translate R&D into customized commercial applications.

Orinko has full in-house control of polymerization, compounding, and molding processes. Equipped with world-class facilities, the company has built a full-chain development platform from molecular design to component validation. Its eight-dimensional testing capabilities (mechanical, thermal, flame retardancy, chemical resistance, etc.) are aligned with global standards.

At the same time, Orinko is expanding its global R&D network. With bases in Thailand, teams in Japan and South Korea, and a growing presence in Europe and North America, the company is building a globally responsive innovation ecosystem.

Expanding Applications and Market Opportunities

Orinko’s PA612 materials are being widely adopted across NEV components:

• Cooling pipes: Single and multi-layer solutions with enhanced hydrolysis resistance and lighter weight

• Fuel pipes: Five-layer PA612 solutions meet VW and PSA standards with improved temperature resistance

• Air suspension systems: High burst pressure and excellent low-temperature toughness

• Air conditioning lines: Combined with PP in multi-layer pipes, compatible with laser welding, lower refrigerant permeability than aluminum

• Hydrogen tank liners: Low nitrogen permeability and high impact strength

Beyond automotive, Orinko’s long-chain nylons are gaining traction in:

• Smart home appliances: Dishwasher components using PA612 replace imports, thanks to low moisture absorption and chemical resistance

• AI server cooling systems: High-performance tubes and connectors support next-gen thermal management

• Emerging sectors: Consumer electronics, drones, and low-altitude economy applications

Investment Value: Technology, Substitution, and Growth

Orinko’s achievements in long-chain nylon reflect broader trends in material localization. The company offers strategic value in three areas:

1. Domestic substitution: Securing supply chains and reducing downstream costs

2. High-growth markets: NEVs, smart home, electronics, and AI offer strong demand

3. Technological moat: Full-chain technical integration and global R&D system ensure long-term competitiveness

With multiple long-chain nylon product lines in development, Orinko is poised to build on the success of PA612 and lead the next cycle of growth in high-end engineering plastics. From polymerization reactors to the heart of electric vehicles, Orinko is helping build the resilient backbone of China’s advanced manufacturing industry.