PEEK

Thermal properties

The thermal properties of polyether ether ketone (PEEK) are among the most important reasons for its use as a high-performance plastic. PEEK retains its mechanical strength and rigidity even at continuously high temperatures and is suitable for long-term use up to approximately 260°C. Even higher temperatures can be tolerated for short periods. The melting temperature is around 343°C, making PEEK suitable for particularly demanding thermal applications. In addition, the material has inherent flame retardancy and produces only low smoke and gas emissions in the event of fire, making it ideal for safety-related applications.

Mechanical properties

PEEK is characterised by very high mechanical strength, rigidity and endurance. Even under high temperatures or continuous mechanical stress, the material retains its stable properties. Thanks to its high dimensional stability, PEEK is ideal for precision components that require tight tolerances. These robust mechanical properties make the polymer particularly attractive for applications in aerospace, the automotive industry and mechanical engineering.

Chemical properties

Polyetheretherketone offers excellent resistance to many chemicals, including acids, alkalis, solvents and fuels. This chemical stability is retained even at elevated temperatures, allowing the material to be used in particularly demanding environments. PEEK is also highly resistant to hydrolysis and can be used in humid or hot environments over long periods of time. Its low permeability to many liquids and gases makes this plastic ideal for applications where chemical resistance is crucial.

Specific properties

In addition to its thermal and mechanical advantages, PEEK offers excellent electrical insulation properties. The material also has very good wear and sliding properties, making it ideal for bearings, seals and moving components. PEEK is available in numerous modified variants, for example glass fibre or carbon fibre reinforced, to further optimise its mechanical performance. Furthermore, the material is sterilisable and biocompatible, which is why it is also increasingly used in medical technology. This combination of performance and versatility makes PEEK one of the most important high-performance plastics for highly technical applications.

Automotive industry: In the automotive industry, PEEK is often used for highly stressed components such as bearings, seals, gears and components in the engine compartment. Its high temperature resistance, excellent wear resistance and chemical stability make it ideal for applications that are permanently exposed to extreme mechanical and thermal stresses. At the same time, the low weight of the material contributes to reducing the overall weight of modern vehicles.

Electronics: In the electronics industry, PEEK is used for connectors, insulators and precision-manufactured components. Its excellent electrical insulation properties and high temperature and dimensional stability enable reliable use in demanding electronic applications. In addition, PEEK can be processed with a high degree of precision, which is particularly important for complex and miniaturised components.

Medical technology: PEEK is increasingly being used in medical technology because the material is biocompatible and sterilisable. Typical applications include implants, surgical instruments and components for medical devices. Thanks to its high strength and resistance to repeated sterilisation processes, PEEK is particularly suitable for applications where reliability and hygiene are crucial.

Aerospace: In the aerospace industry, PEEK is used for lightweight yet high-strength components. Its excellent temperature resistance, low smoke emission in case of fire and high mechanical performance make it an important material for structural components, insulators and technical components in aircraft and space systems.

Industry & Mechanical Engineering: PEEK is also used in general mechanical engineering for highly stressed components such as bearings, bushings, seals and sliding elements. The combination of high wear resistance, chemical resistance and thermal stability ensures a long service life for components, even under demanding operating conditions. PEEK thus contributes to the efficiency and reliability of modern industrial plants.