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ULTRA-HIGH-PERFORMANCE MATERIAL

PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone)

One of the highest-performing thermoplastics available. PEEK offers an unparalleled combination of properties, making it a go-to choice for replacing metal in the most extreme environments.

A blank of raw PEEK material ready to be machined into medical implants

Performance Without Compromise

PEEK belongs to the PAEK (polyaryletherketone) family of polymers. Its semi-crystalline structure gives it a unique set of high-end properties that are stable across an exceptionally wide range of temperatures and conditions.

Extreme Temperature Resistance

PEEK can operate continuously at temperatures up to 250°C (482°F) and has a melting point over 340°C. It maintains excellent mechanical properties even at these elevated temperatures.

Excellent Mechanical Strength

With high tensile strength, stiffness, and creep resistance, PEEK is one of the strongest thermoplastics. Carbon-filled grades can achieve a strength-to-weight ratio that rivals some metals.

Outstanding Biocompatibility

Medical-grade PEEK is biocompatible and can be sterilized repeatedly with autoclave, steam, ETO, and gamma radiation without degradation, making it ideal for reusable surgical tools and implants.

Machining & Applications

PEEK is typically processed via CNC machining and injection molding. Machining PEEK requires specific expertise due to its cost and toughness, but it can be machined to very tight tolerances, resulting in highly accurate and reliable parts.

Ideal Applications

  • Medical Implants: Used for spinal fusion cages, cranial plates, and other orthopedic implants as a lightweight, radiolucent alternative to Titanium.
  • Aerospace Components: Electrical connectors, seals, and structural components that require high strength and flame retardancy.
  • Industrial Machinery: Piston parts, seals, bearings, and compressor components in high-temperature and chemically aggressive environments.
A complex 5-axis machined part, analogous to high-performance PEEK components

PEEK Plastic FAQ

Why is PEEK so expensive?

PEEK is a highly specialized polymer that is complex and energy-intensive to produce. Its cost reflects its exceptional performance capabilities that cannot be matched by standard engineering plastics. It is a material chosen when no other plastic can meet the application's demands.

What are carbon-filled or glass-filled PEEK?

These are composite grades where carbon fibers or glass fibers are added to the base PEEK resin. Carbon-filled PEEK offers the highest levels of stiffness and strength. Glass-filled PEEK provides enhanced strength and rigidity. These fillers improve mechanical performance but reduce ductility.

Is PEEK difficult to machine?

PEEK is more challenging to machine than common plastics. It is an abrasive material, especially filled grades, which causes rapid tool wear. It also requires careful management of cutting speeds and feeds to avoid generating stress in the material. Our machinists have the specific experience required to produce high-quality PEEK parts.