PEEK molding compounds withstand the toughest conditions

The semicrystalline thermoplastic high-performance polymer PEEK is distinguished by the following material properties:

• high radiation resistance
• high chemical resistance
• very good resistance to wear
• high abrasion resistance
• hydrolytic resistance
• high dimensional stability due to low water absorption
• high thermal resistance
• very high heat distortion temperature
• inherent flame resistance
• high glass transition temperature
• high fusion temperature
• high long-term stability
• high creep resistance
• good electrical properties

These properties make the VESTAKEEP® the material of choice if, for example, you're looking for a high-temperature polymer as a metal substitute in components that must withstand severe environmental conditions.

VESTAKEEP^® superior to metal

VESTAKEEP^® PEEK outperforms metals by improving system durability and lowering component manufacturing costs. These benefits derive from the material properties of corrosion resistance, abrasion resistance, high rigidity combined with low weight, and versatile processability.

• PEEK components, for example, are resistant to corrosion caused by salts, solvents, caustics, and many acids.
• The high-performance polymer also reduces abrasive wear arising from slurries, particulate impact, and sliding friction.
• VESTAKEEP^® is more rigid than steel and weighs less. Lightweight construction components help save fuel in transport, and allow the construction of more durable compressor parts and more efficient engine design for gears and impellers.
• Substituting metal parts with VESTAKEEP^® PEEK reduces component cost due to improved durability, more efficient processing methods, part consolidation, and greater design freedom than is possible for machined metal parts.

Thanks to these properties, PEEK is gaining ground and replacing such materials as aluminum, titanium, and steel in aircraft construction. Bushings used in the mining, pulp, and paper industries are also made from the high-temperature polymer.

VESTAKEEP^® superior to other plastics

Of all plastics, PEEK offers the best combination of inertness and heat resistance. This high-performance polymer retains its original properties, even after long exposure to steam, ethylene oxide, and gamma radiation. Extremely low levels of extractables, outgassing, and contaminants make polyetheretherketone an excellent material for wafer handling in semiconductor production. VESTAKEEP^® molding compounds have extremely high oxidative stability in the melt and can be used continuously at temperatures exceeding 260°C.