Polyether Ether Ketone
Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK): High-Performance Engineering Thermoplastic
Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK) is a high-performance semi-crystalline thermoplastic with exceptional mechanical, chemical, and thermal resistance properties. Widely used in demanding applications across aerospace, medical, automotive, and industrial sectors, PEEK offers superior performance compared to traditional materials.
Key Properties of Polyether Ether Ketone
- Excellent mechanical strength and stiffness
- Outstanding chemical resistance
- Superior thermal stability (continuous use up to 250°C)
- Excellent wear and abrasion resistance
- Inherent flame retardancy
- Good electrical insulation properties
- Excellent dimensional stability
Polyether Ether Ketone Technical Specifications
| Property | Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 100 MPa | ASTM D638 |
| Flexural Modulus | 3.6 GPa | ASTM D790 |
| Heat Deflection Temperature | 160°C @ 1.82 MPa | ASTM D648 |
| Melting Point | 343°C | ASTM D3418 |
| Density | 1.32 g/cm³ | ASTM D792 |
| Water Absorption | 0.5% (24h immersion) | ASTM D570 |
Polyether Ether Ketone Grades Available
- Unfilled PEEK (Virgin Grade)
- Carbon Fiber Reinforced PEEK (10%, 20%, 30%)
- Glass Fiber Reinforced PEEK (30%)
- Wear-Resistant PEEK (PTFE/Graphite filled)
- Electrically Conductive PEEK (Carbon filled)
- Medical Grade PEEK (Implantable)
Frequently Asked Questions About Polyether Ether Ketone
Q: What temperature can Polyether Ether Ketone withstand?
A: Polyether Ether Ketone has excellent thermal stability with a continuous operating temperature up to 250°C (482°F). Its glass transition temperature is approximately 143°C (289°F), and it melts at 343°C (649°F). Short-term exposure to temperatures up to 300°C is possible without significant degradation.
Q: Is Polyether Ether Ketone resistant to chemicals?
A: Yes, Polyether Ether Ketone offers outstanding chemical resistance. It is resistant to most organic and inorganic chemicals, including hydrocarbons, acids, bases, and steam. However, it may be attacked by concentrated sulfuric acid and some halogenated solvents at elevated temperatures.
Q: Why choose Polyether Ether Ketone over metal components?
A: Polyether Ether Ketone offers several advantages over metals including significant weight reduction (about 70% lighter than steel), excellent corrosion resistance, noise reduction, improved wear characteristics, and the ability to be molded into complex shapes without requiring extensive machining operations.
Applications of Polyether Ether Ketone
- Aerospace: Bearings, seals, and structural components
- Medical: Spinal implants, dental instruments, and surgical tools
- Automotive: Transmission components, sensor housings
- Oil & Gas: Downhole components, valve seats
- Semiconductor: Wafer carriers, cleanroom components
- Food Processing: Conveyor components, pump parts
Machining Guidelines for Polyether Ether Ketone
| Operation | Recommended Speed | Feed Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Turning | 200-300 m/min | 0.1-0.2 mm/rev |
| Milling | 100-200 m/min | 0.05-0.2 mm/tooth |
| Drilling | 50-100 m/min | 0.05-0.15 mm/rev |
For optimal results when machining Polyether Ether Ketone, use sharp carbide tools with positive rake angles and adequate cooling (compressed air preferred over liquid coolants). Proper chip evacuation is crucial to prevent overheating.