show what’s possible when engineering meets environmental responsibility. As I commented in our launch announcement,
“We’ve achieved outstanding results with our sustainable nylon products, not only matching performance requirements but also offering a credible path to net zero. This initiative sits at the heart of our strategy to support our customers with engineering-led, environmentally responsible, solutions.”
Developing this new range was not a short exercise. The R&D process is ongoing as we continue to respond to specific customer requirements, but already we have conducted mould trials and mechanical tests on eight different types of parts. We looked at installation and strength
performance, then compared results directly against virgin nylon. We also subjected parts to accelerated heat ageing to test how durability might be affected over time. The outcomes were highly encouraging, with consistent performance, reliable installation and no unexpected weaknesses. The products tested included:
• Cable Ties, Fir Tree Mount • Push Lock Rivets • Drive Fasteners • Wire Saddles • Snap Rivets • Fir Tree Clips • Threaded Pillars. These are core parts used widely in
applications such as securing data cabling, fastening control systems, and assembling enclosures – all critical functions within smart infrastructure.
The similarity in mechanical properties between recycled and virgin nylon means that, in principle, many of the plastic fasteners currently made from nylon can also be produced in the recycled alternative. This opens the door to a wide variety of applications across industries. Our immediate focus is on smart
infrastructure sectors – lighting, water, power and data/communications, where we already see strong customer demand for sustainable solutions. But the potential goes much further. Automotive, medical equipment, consumer electronics and many other sectors are exploring sustainable alternatives – and nylon fasteners are often a natural fit. In some cases, a custom grade of recycled
nylon may be needed to meet very specific requirements, for example in terms of flammability or UV stability. While the current choice of grades is limited, demand will drive development. If the application volume
justifies it, creating a bespoke recycled grade is a feasible option.
The headline benefit is clear, with up to
90% reduction in CO2 emissions compared with virgin nylon. This directly helps OEMs meet their sustainability and compliance goals, while reducing reliance on fossil fuel-based raw materials. In terms of limitations, the recycled nylon
market is still in its infancy. This means availability of different grades is not yet as broad as traditional materials. Colour options, flame-retardant properties and UV stability are all more restricted at present. But as adoption grows, the industry will respond, and we expect rapid evolution in the range of recycled options available.
Following successful production trials, TR’s recycled nylon parts are now undergoing
are large in number and the opportunity for impact is significant.
This, in turn, will support the development of new recycled grades with enhanced characteristics, from flame retardancy to improved UV stability. What is today a limited market will quickly become a diverse and dynamic one. At TR, we are committed to leading that
journey. We continue to expand our sustainable materials portfolio, exploring not just recycled nylons but also other options that align with customer needs. Our role is to ensure that when design engineers ask for a sustainable solution, we can provide one that meets every technical and commercial requirement.
Sustainability in engineering is no longer about compromises or trade-offs. With advances in recycled materials, it is possible to combine robust performance with dramatic
CO2 savings. TR’s new range of recycled nylon fasteners demonstrates exactly that.
final assessments for commercial launch. We are inviting design engineers to engage with our technical teams to explore integration opportunities and to test samples in their own applications. Cost is always a factor, and currently recycled
nylon does carry a premium – around 10% higher than virgin material. This is simply a function of supply and demand. As more manufacturers adopt recycled grades and production volumes rise, we fully expect material costs to reduce, narrowing or even eliminating the gap. For many customers, the value equation
is already clear, as the sustainability benefits outweigh the small cost premium, particularly
where corporate or regulatory CO2 targets must be met.
We believe demand for sustainable fasteners is only going to increase. As OEMs intensify their drive to cut emissions, they will look for every possible way to achieve reductions. Fasteners may be small in size, but they
35 For design engineers, the message is clear
– the tools to meet your environmental goals are here today. And at TR, we are ready to partner with you to put them into action.
Andrew Fletcher
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