PEEK: A material in a class of its own
Here at PlastShop, we work with a wide variety of plastics on a daily basis. Sometimes, requirements arise where only PEEK can deliver. Polyetheretherketone, or PEEK, is an extremely high-performance material that can handle the toughest challenges. But what exactly makes PEEK so special, and when is it worth investing in this expensive plastic?
Focus on extreme properties
PEEK stands out thanks to a range of extreme properties, making it indispensable in certain applications. For example, the material can withstand continuous temperatures of up to 260°C, which is a remarkably high figure compared with many other plastics. In addition, PEEK exhibits outstanding chemical resistance and withstands a wide range of aggressive chemicals. Its mechanical strength is also impressive, with a tensile strength reaching up to 100 MPa.
Furthermore, PEEK has low moisture absorption and very low friction, making it ideal for applications where wear and friction are problematic. Another advantage is PEEK’s low coefficient of thermal expansion, which means that the material hardly expands or contracts in response to temperature changes.
Different grades of PEEK
PEEK is available in various grades, with unfilled PEEK, GF30 and CF30 being the most common. The unfilled grade represents the purest form and has the best mechanical properties. GF30 is glass-fibre-reinforced and has higher strength and stiffness than unfilled PEEK. CF30, on the other hand, is carbon-fibre-reinforced and offers even higher strength and stiffness than GF30.
Here at PlastShop, you’ll find all these PEEK variants. Which variant is best suited depends entirely on the specific application and the requirements placed on the material. If, for example, a material is required that can withstand extremely high temperatures and chemicals, unfilled PEEK may be the best choice.
When the cost is justified
PEEK is an expensive material, which can make it difficult to justify the investment in certain applications. In many cases, however, PEEK is the only material that meets the required specifications, which justifies the cost. In the aerospace industry, where safety is of the utmost importance, PEEK may be the only material that guarantees sufficient performance and safety.
So how can the cost of PEEK be justified in other contexts? One way is to compare the cost with other materials that could potentially meet the same requirements. PEEK often proves to be the most cost-effective option in the long run, thanks to its long service life and low maintenance costs.
Applications for PEEK
PEEK is used in a wide range of sectors, such as the aerospace, medical and oil and gas industries. In the aerospace industry, PEEK is used to manufacture components exposed to extremely high temperatures and chemicals, such as engines and fuel systems. In the medical sector, PEEK is used for implants and instruments due to its biocompatibility and chemical resistance.
In the oil and gas industry, PEEK is used to manufacture components exposed to extremely high pressures and temperatures, such as valves and seals. PEEK can also be used in the chemical and automotive industries, where its unique properties offer significant advantages.
When PEEK is the only option
So when is PEEK the only option? In certain applications, such as in the aerospace and medical industries, PEEK is often the only material capable of meeting the stringent requirements. In these cases, the cost of PEEK is well justified, as safety and performance are the top priorities.
In other applications, there may be cheaper alternatives that meet the requirements. In certain chemical applications, for example, PE-HD or PP may be sufficient and more economical choices. However, when extreme temperatures, chemicals and mechanical stresses are involved, PEEK is often the only viable option.
We often wonder: how do you determine when PEEK is the only right choice? Are there other materials that can deliver the same performance, or is PEEK truly unique in these applications? We frequently discuss this question with our customers at PlastShop, and we strive to find the best solutions together.
If you’re facing a challenge where no other material is up to the task, PEEK could be the solution. Here at PlastShop, we offer a wide range of PEEK grades and shapes. Our experienced staff will help you choose the right material for your specific needs. Contact us to discuss your options and find out whether PEEK is the right choice for you.
PEEK: När inget annat material är tillräckligt