PEEK & PEI: Key Features of High-Temperature Thermoplastics

We offer two high-temperature thermoplastics: PEEK and PEI. Both high-performance materials can be machined and injection molded, and produce parts that can withstand extreme temperatures.

PEEK
PEEK parts contain excellent mechanical and chemical resistance during high-temperature applications. Its mechanical properties consist of tensile modulus strengths of 90-200 MPa and a melting temperature of 662˚F (343˚C). Some grades of PEEK have operating temperatures around 482˚F (250˚C).

Because of its robustness, PEEK is commonly used in applications for mechanical and medical instruments. PEEK is also used widely in the aerospace, automotive and chemical industries due to the insulating properties and creep resistance of any dimensional changes in high-temperature applications.

PEI
Like PEEK, PEI (often called by its trade name Ultem) offers outstanding elevated thermal resistance, high strength, stiffness and chemical resistance. PEI consists of tensile modulus strengths of 96-190 MPa and with a melting temperature above 420˚F.

PEI is available in transparent and opaque colors including glass additives for improved mechanical properties. Unlike other thermoplastics, PEI provides optimal strength and resists stress cracking when the material is exposed to hydrocarbons, alcohols and acids that makes them ideal for automotive and aerospace applications.

Which Manufacturing Process is Best?
If you’re in need of small quantities (up to 200) of PEEK and PEI parts, we can machined them in less than 3 days. For increased quantities in the thousands, rapid injection molding can produce parts in 15 days or less.

The physical properties vary little between processes, so please test out one sample using machining before moving to injection molding if you are unsure if your parts design is complete or not.

Contact us if you have any further questions about high-temp plastics and specific questions regarding PEEK or PEI. We have a full staff of customer service engineers who can be reached at ADMIN@MFGROBOTS.COM or 877-479-3680.