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PEEK in Injection Molding
Polyether ether ketone (PEEK) is an advanced thermoplastic known for its outstanding properties, making it ideal for injection molding. Its exceptional strength ensures that parts made from this material can withstand significant mechanical stress and wear.
PEEK has a high temperature resistance which allows it to maintain its mechanical properties even at elevated temperatures. Moreover, its superb chemical resistance ensures that it can withstand exposure to a wide range of chemicals without degrading.
In addition to these properties, PEEK’s low moisture absorption and good electrical insulating properties further enhance its suitability for various demanding applications. These characteristics ensure that PEEK remains stable and performs reliably even in challenging conditions.
At RapidDirect, we offer two grades of PEEK: PEEK Beige (Natural) and PEEK Black. These materials are renowned for their excellent strength, high-temperature resistance, and superb chemical resistance, making them suitable for demanding applications.
| Price: | $$$ | Available PEEK at RapidDirect: | PEEK Beige (Natural) and PEEK Black |
|---|---|
| Lead Time: | < 5 days |
| Wall Thickness: | 1mm |
| Tolerances: | ISO2768-C |
| Max Part Size: | 300 mm x 300 mm x 300 mm |
Plastic PPS Properties
| Properties | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | 1.3 g/cm³ |
| Tensile Strength | 90 to 100 MPa |
| Flexural Strength | 165 MPa |
| Impact Strength | Moderate |
| Thermal Conductivity | 0.25 W/(m·K) |
| Melting Point | 343°C |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion | 47 x 10^-6 /°C |
| Moisture Absorption | Very Low |
| Chemical Resistance | Excellent |
| UV Resistance | Good |
Pros and Cons of PEEK Injection Molding
PEEK plastic offers many benefits that make it suitable for injection molding. However, there are some of its downsides to consider before choosing it for any project.
Pros
- Excellent mechanical properties and high strength.
- High thermal stability, suitable for extreme environments.
- Outstanding chemical resistance.
- Low moisture absorption and good UV resistance.
Cons
- Higher cost compared to other thermoplastics.
- Requires high processing temperatures and specialized equipment.
- Limited color options.
Applications of Injection Molded PEEK Parts
Injection molded PEEK parts are widely used across various industries, including:
- Aerospace: Structural components, insulators, and fasteners.
- Automotive: Transmission parts, under-the-hood components, and seals.
- Medical: Surgical instruments, implantable devices, and diagnostic equipment.
- Industrial: Bearings, valves, and pump components.
- Electronics: Connectors, housings, and circuit board components.
FAQs
The recommended wall thickness for PEEK injection molded parts typically ranges from 1.5mm to 5mm. Thinner walls can be achieved, but they require careful mold design and precise control of processing parameters to ensure part quality and avoid defects such as warping or incomplete filling. Thicker walls may be used for parts requiring additional strength or durability.
Yes, PEEK can be used for food contact applications, provided it meets the relevant regulatory standards. PEEK has excellent chemical resistance and thermal stability, making it suitable for components that come into contact with food and beverages. It is important to ensure that the PEEK material used is compliant with FDA or other relevant food safety regulations.
PEEK can be overmolded or used in multi-component injection molding, but it requires careful consideration of the materials and process conditions. Overmolding involves molding a PEEK part over another material, such as metal or a different plastic, to create a composite part with enhanced properties.
PEEK can be recycled or reused, but the process is more complex compared to other thermoplastics due to its high processing temperatures and specialized properties. Recycled PEEK may be used in less demanding applications or as a filler in composite materials. The recycling process involves collecting, cleaning, and reprocessing the material into new products.
Typical tolerances achievable with PEEK injection molding are within ±0.05mm. Achieving precise tolerances depends on several factors, including mold design, machine capabilities, and processing conditions. PEEK’s dimensional stability and low shrinkage contribute to its ability to meet tight tolerances, making it suitable for high-precision applications. Proper tool maintenance and control of molding parameters are essential to consistently achieve the desired tolerances.
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