Details
PEEK RODS
PEEK Rods are cylindrical, solid stock shapes made from Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK), a high-performance semi-crystalline thermoplastic renowned for its exceptional thermal stability, mechanical strength, and resistance to harsh environments. PEEK rods are engineered for extreme conditions where metals or standard plastics fail, offering a unique combination of lightweight design, corrosion resistance, and machinability. They are produced via compression molding or extrusion and are widely used in aerospace, medical, automotive, and industrial applications.
Key Features:
Extreme Thermal Resistance: Continuous use up to 250°C (482°F); short-term exposure to 300°C (572°F).
High Mechanical Strength: Retains rigidity under heavy loads (tensile strength up to 170 MPa for reinforced grades).
Chemical Resistance: Resists acids, bases, hydrocarbons, steam, and automotive fluids (e.g., brake fluid, diesel).
Biocompatibility: Medical grades meet ISO 10993 and USP Class VI for surgical implants and tools.
Flame Retardancy: UL94 V-0 rated (self-extinguishing).
Low Smoke & Toxicity: Complies with FAA and railway fire safety standards.
Radiation Resistance: Withstands gamma and electron beam sterilization.
Self-Lubricating: Low coefficient of friction (0.3–0.4) reduces wear in moving parts.
Types:
PEEK rods are available in different formulations to meet diverse industry needs:
(1) Virgin PEEK Rods (Unfilled PEEK)
-Made from pure PEEK resin without fillers.
-Best balance of mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties.
-Suitable for medical, food, and general engineering applications.
(2) Glass-Filled PEEK Rods
-Contains 30% glass fiber reinforcement.
-Higher strength, stiffness, and dimensional stability than virgin PEEK.
-Used in structural, load-bearing, and mechanical applications.
(3) Carbon-Filled PEEK Rods
-Reinforced with 30% carbon fiber.
-Higher stiffness, wear resistance, and reduced coefficient of friction.
-Ideal for high-load, high-friction applications such as gears, bearings, and bushings.
(4) PTFE-Filled PEEK Rods
-Blended with PTFE (Teflon) to improve lubrication and wear resistance.
-Used in tribological (friction and wear) applications like seals and sliding components.
(5) Conductive & ESD-Safe PEEK Rods
-Contains carbon additives for electrical conductivity.
-Used in electronics, semiconductor, and aerospace applications requiring electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection.
Technical Parameters:
The following table summarizes key technical specifications of PEEK Rods:
Property | Value / Range | Description |
Density | ~1.30 – 1.32 g/cm³ | Lightweight compared to metals. |
Tensile Strength | ~90 – 100 MPa | High mechanical strength. |
Flexural Strength | ~150 MPa | Resistant to bending and flexing forces. |
Elongation at Break | ~20 – 50% | Good toughness and flexibility. |
Hardness | ~85 Shore D | High surface hardness. |
Thermal Conductivity | ~0.25 W/m·K | Good insulation properties. |
Glass Transition Temp. | ~143°C | Transition to a soft phase. |
Melting Point | ~343°C | High thermal resistance. |
Continuous Use Temp. | ~260°C (500°F) | Operates in extreme temperatures. |
Flammability Rating | UL94 V-0 | Self-extinguishing, low smoke emission. |
Water Absorption | <0.5% | Low moisture absorption, excellent dimensional stability. |
Radiation Resistance | Excellent | Can withstand high doses of gamma radiation. |
Product Benefits:
Weight Savings: 70% lighter than stainless steel, 50% lighter than aluminum.
Corrosion Resistance: Immune to rust, acids, and solvents.
Machinability: Precision-machined to tolerances of ±0.02mm with CNC tools.
Longevity: Outperforms metals in high-wear, high-temperature environments.
Self-Lubricating & Low Friction: Ideal for moving parts, reducing maintenance and wear.
Superior Chemical & Hydrolysis Resistance: Resists aggressive chemicals and high-pressure steam.
Applications:
PEEK rods are utilized across multiple industries for high-performance applications:
-Industrial Applications
Bearings, bushings, seals, and gaskets.
Gears, rollers, and precision mechanical parts.
High-pressure valve seats and pump components.
-Aerospace & Defense
Structural aircraft components.
High-temperature engine parts.
Satellite and space-grade components.
-Medical & Healthcare
Surgical instruments and medical implants.
Sterilization trays and dental components.
X-ray and MRI-compatible components.
-Automotive & Motorsport
Lightweight, high-performance engine parts.
Bearings, seals, and high-friction components.
Electric vehicle battery insulation.
-Electronics & Semiconductor
Insulating components and connectors.
ESD-safe parts for semiconductor manufacturing.
-Food & Beverage Processing
FDA-approved food contact applications.
Wear-resistant conveyor belt parts and food-handling components.
Storage & Handling:
Store in a Dry, Cool Environment – (15–25°C) with humidity <50%. Prevents moisture absorption and maintains performance.
Keep Away from Direct Sunlight & UV Exposure – Protects against degradation.
Stack Properly – Avoid placing heavy objects on top to prevent deformation.
Handle with Clean Gloves – Prevent contamination in medical and food applications.
FAQ
Q1: Can PEEK rods replace metal parts in high-temperature applications?
A: Yes—PEEK retains strength up to 250°C and eliminates galvanic corrosion.
Q2: Is PEEK suitable for machining complex geometries?
A: Yes—use carbide tools, high-speed steel, and coolant to prevent overheating.
Q3: Can PEEK rods be sterilized repeatedly?
A: Yes—via autoclave (134°C), gamma radiation, or ethylene oxide.
Q4: Can PEEK rods be bonded or welded?
A: Yes—use epoxy adhesives or ultrasonic welding. Plasma treatment improves adhesion.
Q5: Are PEEK rods resistant to radiation?
A: Yes, PEEK has excellent resistance to gamma radiation, X-rays, and UV exposure, making it ideal for aerospace and medical applications.
Q6: Does PEEK rods absorb moisture?
A: Minimal (0.1–0.5% for unfilled grades), but pre-dry at 150°C for 3–4 hours before high-precision machining.
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