PEEK Material Properties and Applications

As plastic components continue to replace traditional metal parts, manufacturers strive to deliver levels of performance that can only be achieved with certain unique materials. One such material is PEEK. PEEK, or polyether ether ketone, is a high-performance thermoplastic widely used in injection molding. Thanks to its superior properties, thermal stability, and chemical resistance, PEEK is a go-to choice for a number of critical applications. Let’s take a closer look at the PEEK material properties and where this polymer comes into play.

An Overview of PEEK Material Properties

While the processing of PEEK presents challenges due to its high temperature resistance and material costs, its advantages in terms of durability, performance, and versatility make it a valuable material for demanding applications. PEEK possesses a unique combination of properties that are not fully matched by any other material. 

A few of the most notable PEEK material properties include:

• High temperature resistance—PEEK has a high melting point (343°C) and can withstand continuous use temperatures of up to 250°C without losing its properties.
• Mechanical strength—With high tensile strength, stiffness, and impact resistance, PEEK is suitable for high-stress applications.
• Chemical resistance—PEEK is resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including acids, bases, and organic solvents. It’s great for applications where parts are regularly exposed to these substances.
• Biocompatibility—Because PEEK is biocompatible and can be sterilized, it’s ideal for many medical applications.
• Electrical insulation—With excellent electrical insulation properties, PEEK is an excellent choice for applications that require reliable performance in high-voltage environments. It also maintains its insulating capabilities even under extreme conditions to ensure safety and stability.
• Dimensional stability—PEEK exhibits remarkable dimensional stability, retaining its shape and size under varying thermal and mechanical loads. This ensures precision and consistency in applications where exact tolerances are critical.
• Ease of processing—PEEK can be efficiently processed using conventional injection molding techniques, despite its high melting point. This allows for the production of complex and intricate components with high precision and repeatability.
• Cost offset by performance—While PEEK is more expensive than many other thermoplastics, its superior performance justifies the higher cost. Its durability, thermal stability, and chemical resistance lead to longer service life and lower maintenance costs, providing significant value over time.

The Role of PEEK in  Critical Applications

Automotive

Components made from PEEK play a vital role in a number of industries, particularly the automotive industry. PEEK parts are commonly found in fuel systems, engines, and electrical systems thanks to the material’s high temperature resistance. It’s also a common choice for parts like bushings, seals, and bearings that require wear-resistance. And, finally, PEEK material properties—such as its high strength-to-weight ratio—allow for parts that contribute significantly to weight reduction and improved fuel efficiency in vehicles.

Medical

Because PEEK is a biocompatible thermoplastic, it’s ideal for components that are used in implants and other medical devices. It can also withstand some of the harsher sterilization methods, such as autoclaving, gamma radiation, and chemical sterilization. And, again thanks to the strength of PEEK, it’s a suitable material for load-bearing implants and surgical instruments.

Consumer Goods

PEEK material properties include extremely high durability. In consumer goods, this makes it perfect for gears, housings, and connectors in a variety of consumer applications. Its ability to withstand high temperatures without warping also makes it popular in kitchen appliances such as stoves and microwaves. It can also be found in various other products like sporting goods, kitchenware, and personal care products.

Plumbing

Plumbing applications often expose plastic components to harsh chemicals. Thanks to the chemical resistance of PEEK, it’s useful in pipe fittings, pump components, and seals and gaskets. It is also a material capable of handling hot water temperatures and exposure to steam, which means it’s ideal for hot water fittings and valves. PEEK is also a durable material that ensures part longevity and reduces the need for replacement parts.

Electronics

PEEK’s excellent electrical insulating properties make it ideal for use in connectors, insulators, and other electronic components. Its ability to maintain properties at high temperatures is also crucial for components used in electronic devices that generate heat. Beyond that, PEEK can be molded into the intricate shapes that are often required for electronic applications, ensuring high performance and reliability.

Industrial

Finally, PEEK material properties include resistance to even the most aggressive chemicals used in industrial applications. This makes PEEK parts ideal for applications in chemical processing plants including pumps, valves, and seals. PEEK also has high strength and rigidity, both of which are beneficial for industrial applications that involve high loads and stresses. With excellent wear and abrasion resistance, PEEK parts help ensure long-lasting performance in machinery and equipment, which reduces both downtime and maintenance costs.

Get Custom Injection Molded PEEK Components from Thogus

At Thogus, we provide mid- to high-volume injection molding services for a wide range of critical applications. Our facilities are located in Avon Lake, Ohio and are equipped with the latest in advanced manufacturing technology and automation. Between that and our decades of experience, we’re able to deliver tailored manufacturing solutions that fit your specific needs. 

Are you looking to partner with a manufacturer that prioritizes consistency and quality from start to finish? Get in touch with us today to get started on your next project.