PEEK
High-performance semi-crystalline thermoplastic with exceptional thermal, chemical, and mechanical properties. PEEK replaces metals in demanding aerospace and medical applications.
About PEEK
PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) is the apex of engineering thermoplastics, delivering metal-like mechanical properties with 60% weight savings. It maintains structural integrity at temperatures up to 250°C, resists virtually all chemicals except concentrated sulfuric acid, and is inherently flame-retardant (UL94 V-0 without additives).
FabRapid CNC machines PEEK in unfilled, glass-filled (GF30), and carbon-filled (CF30) grades. Machining PEEK requires sharp tools, controlled feed rates, and attention to thermal management — though it is significantly easier to machine than metals like titanium or Inconel.
Despite its high material cost ($80-150/kg vs $3-5/kg for nylon), PEEK often delivers net savings in demanding applications through weight reduction, chemical resistance, and elimination of secondary operations like coating or plating.
Material Properties
Compatible Manufacturing Processes
PEEK can be processed using these manufacturing methods.
Available Surface Finishes
Surface treatments compatible with PEEK.
Common Applications
Design Guidelines for PEEK
PEEK is expensive — minimize material waste by designing near-net-shape blanks
Minimum wall thickness: 1.0 mm — PEEK machines well but is sensitive to unsupported thin walls
Anneal PEEK parts after machining to relieve residual stress and improve dimensional stability
Carbon-filled PEEK (CF30) offers the best strength and stiffness but is electrically conductive — consider this for EMI applications
PEEK FAQ
PEEK requires extreme synthesis conditions (temperatures above 300°C under inert atmosphere), expensive raw materials (4,4'-difluorobenzophenone), and specialized processing equipment. The global supply is limited to a few manufacturers (Victrex, Solvay, Evonik). Material cost ranges from $80-150/kg depending on grade and form.
PEEK successfully replaces metals in many applications where weight savings, corrosion resistance, or radiolucency (X-ray transparency) are needed. It has higher specific strength than aluminum at temperatures below 200°C. However, it cannot match the absolute strength of steel or titanium and is not suitable for primary structural aerospace applications.
Yes. PEEK is FDA-approved and ISO 10993 compliant for long-term implantation. PEEK-OPTIMA (medical grade) is widely used for spinal fusion cages, cranial implants, and dental abutments. Its radiolucency allows post-surgical imaging without metal artifacts, a key advantage over titanium implants.
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