Polyether Ether Keton (PEEK) Engineered Plastics

Polyether Ether Keton (PEEK)

PEEK is a high-performance semi-crystalline engineering thermoplastic selected for applications where conventional plastics—and many metals—cannot withstand high temperatures, heavy loads, wear, or aggressive chemicals. It maintains strength, stiffness, and dimensional stability even under continuous stress and elevated heat.

This unique combination makes PEEK a preferred choice for critical components and metal replacement, enabling weight reduction, corrosion resistance, and longer service life in demanding environments.

PEEK Properties Overview

PEEK stands out because of its broad and well-balanced property profile. For applications with only one or two performance demands, other engineering plastics may be sufficient. However, when components meet multiple critical requirements simultaneously, PEEK becomes the material of choice—often taking the place of metals or less capable polymers in demanding service conditions.

• High Temperature Resistance
  • Operating temperature up to 500 °F (260 °C)
  • Melting temperature 650 °F (343 °C)
• Chemical Resistance
  • Outstanding resistance to a broad spectrum of chemicals across a wide temperature range, while maintaining high mechanical strength with minimal swelling or discoloration.
• Mechanical Strength
  • Delivers high strength and stiffness, along with excellent resistance to long-term creep and fatigue under sustained loading.
• Wear Resistance
  • Well suited for tribological applications, delivering exceptional wear performance even under high pressure and high-speed operating conditions.
• Electrical Properties
  • Exhibits reliable electrical insulating performance, offers high dielectric strength and stable electrical properties, making it suitable for applications where consistent electrical performance is required in demanding mechanical and thermal environments.
• PFAS Free (unfilled grade)

Our Product Offering

• Virgin Grade
• Glass Filled
• Carbon Filled
• Ceramic Filled

Markets Served

• Aerospace
• Food & Beverage
• Oil & Gas
• Semiconductor
• Industrial
• Robotics
• Chemical Processing

Typical Products and Applications

Limitations of PEEK

• Higher material cost than standard engineering plastics
• Often unnecessary for low-temperature or lightly loaded applications
• Requires experienced processing and machining

PEEK vs Other Materials

• PEEK vs PTFE
  • PEEK offers significantly higher strength and creep resistance, while PTFE provides lower friction and broader chemical resistance.
• PEEK vs PPS
  • Both materials handle high temperatures, but PEEK typically offers better fatigue resistance and overall mechanical performance.
• PEEK vs Metal
  • PEEK eliminates corrosion, reduces weight, and can extend wear life in many applications.

When Should You Choose PEEK?

PEEK is typically selected when:

• Operating temperatures exceed the limits of standard plastics
• Parts experience continuous load or cyclic stress
• Wear, abrasion, or fatigue drive premature failures
• Corrosion or weight is a concern with metal components
• Long-term dimensional stability is critical
• It may not be the best choice for low-stress or low-temperature applications where cost is the primary driver.

Frequently Asked Questions About PTFE

How hot can PEEK operate continuously?

PEEK can operate continuously up to approximately 500 °F (260 °C), with short-term excursions above this range.

Is PEEK resistant to chemicals and corrosion?

Yes. PEEK offers excellent resistance to oils, fuels, hydrocarbons, and many acids and solvents, and it does not corrode like metals.

Can PEEK replace metal components?

In many cases, yes. PEEK is often used to replace aluminum, bronze, or steel when corrosion resistance, weight reduction, or wear performance is required.