When it comes to high-performance engineering plastics, few materials rival the capabilities of PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone). With a combination of exceptional mechanical strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance, PEEK has become the material of choice for applications where other plastics and even metals fall short.
Whether you're in aerospace, medical, oil & gas, automotive, or semiconductor industries, understanding what makes PEEK so valuable can help you make more informed decisions about material selection.
PEEK is a semicrystalline thermoplastic belonging to the polyaryletherketone (PAEK) family. Originally developed in the late 1970s, it quickly gained a reputation for outperforming traditional polymers in extreme environments. Today, it's commonly used in parts that are exposed to high temperatures, mechanical stress, and corrosive chemicals.
1. Extreme Heat Resistance
PEEK can withstand continuous use temperatures of up to 480°F (250°C) and short-term exposure as high as 570°F (300°C) without losing mechanical integrity. Unlike many other plastics, it retains its strength and shape under prolonged thermal stress.
2. Outstanding Mechanical Properties
PEEK is known for its high tensile strength, impact resistance, and rigidity. It performs reliably under heavy loads and dynamic forces, making it ideal for structural components in harsh conditions.
3. Chemical and Hydrolysis Resistance
PEEK resists a wide range of aggressive chemicals, including acids, bases, and organic solvents. It’s also highly resistant to hydrolysis and can operate in steam or high-pressure water without degradation, which is critical in medical and food processing equipment.
4. Wear and Abrasion Resistance
When blended with additives like carbon fiber, glass fiber, or PTFE, PEEK exhibits excellent wear and friction performance. These properties are essential for moving parts like bearings, seals, and bushings, especially in dry or marginally lubricated conditions.
5. Dimensional Stability
PEEK maintains its dimensional integrity across a wide temperature range and under mechanical load. This makes it suitable for precision parts where tolerances are critical, such as semiconductor wafer clamps or surgical tools.
6. Flame and Radiation Resistance
PEEK has a V-0 flammability rating (UL 94) and low smoke/toxic gas emissions. It also withstands high doses of gamma radiation, making it suitable for sterilizable medical devices and aerospace interiors.
Used in components like brackets, insulation covers, and cable clamps that require light weight and high performance.
• Medical
Ideal for implants, endoscopic tools, and reusable surgical instruments due to its sterilizability and biocompatibility.
Withstands high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) environments in seals, valve components, and compressor parts.
Replaces metal in lightweighting initiatives while offering superior heat and chemical resistance in transmission and fuel systems.
Ensures dimensional stability and chemical purity in wafer handling, test sockets, and chip manufacturing tools.
While metals like stainless steel or titanium are often considered the gold standard for strength and heat resistance, they come with trade-offs: they’re heavier, harder to machine, and often prone to corrosion. Compared to conventional plastics, PEEK offers a much higher performance ceiling, making it a reliable solution where failure is not an option.
PEEK isn’t just another high-performance plastic it’s the polymer of choice for the most demanding applications. Its combination of strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance makes it indispensable for industries where safety, performance, and durability matter most.
If you're designing parts for extreme environments or need a material that can outperform metal without the weight and corrosion drawbacks, PEEK should be at the top of your list.
Need help sourcing PEEK materials or designing with PEEK in mind?
Contact our engineering team today to discuss how this remarkable polymer can elevate your application.
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