Ultem® Plastic: The Go-To High-Performance Thermoplastic for Tough Applications

When strength, heat resistance, and dimensional stability are critical, Ultem® plastic rises to the occasion. Known for its unique combination of properties, Ultem is a high-performance thermoplastic used in the most demanding industries, including aerospace, medical, electronics, and industrial manufacturing.

What is Ultem?

Ultem® is the brand name for polyetherimide (PEI), an amorphous thermoplastic developed by SABIC. It features outstanding mechanical strength, high temperature performance, excellent flame resistance, and good chemical resistance, all without fillers or additives.

Key Features

• High Temperature Resistance: Continuous use up to 340°F (170°C), with short-term performance up to 392°F (200°C).
• Strength & Stiffness: High strength-to-weight ratio for structural and load-bearing parts.
• Dimensional Stability: Maintains tight tolerances under stress and temperature extremes.
• Flame Resistance: Naturally flame retardant (UL94 V-0 rating) without additives.
• Electrical Insulation: Excellent dielectric properties.
• Chemical Resistance: Tolerates a wide range of acids, alcohols, and hydrocarbons.

Applications

Aerospace: Ducting, clips, panels, and other weight-critical components.
Medical: Reusable surgical instruments, sterilization trays, handles.
Electronics: High-voltage insulators, connectors, circuit board components.
Industrial: Manifolds, impellers, high-temp fittings.
Food Processing: FDA-compliant versions for hot-fill or autoclaved food contact.

Ultem vs Other Plastics

Fabrication & Availability

Ultem is available in sheet, rod, and tube. It machines well with standard tooling and offers exceptional stability for tight-tolerance components. Commonly CNC-machined or thermoformed.

Ready to Source Ultem?

Let us help you select the right Ultem grade and format for your project. Contact us today for expert guidance, material availability, and precision fabrication support.