Durability, cost, and certain properties are important factors when deciding what materials should be used for your projects. Both PEEK and stainless steel offer many advantages, making it difficult to decide between the two materials. Luckily, our team has outlined each of these materials in detail to help aid in your decision between PEEK vs stainless steel.
PEEK
Cost
Since PEEK is derived from petroleum-based sources, the cost of its raw materials can fluctuate based on oil prices. PEEK may also be more expensive than other polymers since it is considered a specialty material due to its ability to function in many high-demand applications.
Performance
PEEK has many beneficial properties that make it a great choice for a wide range of projects.
- High-Temperature Resistance: With a melting point over 371ºC and the ability to operate in 260ºC temperatures without deforming, this polymer can be used in applications that are exposed to high temperatures. Plus, in high-load-high-temperature environments, it can function without losing dimensional properties.
- Chemical Resistance: PEEK is resistant to many harsh chemicals, including acids, bases, and solvents. However, it does have limitations when exposed to sulfuric acid at concentrations >10%, methylene chloride, DMSO, and THF.
Biocompatibility
PEEK does not break down over time in the human body, and the human body does not reject the material. It is also resistant to radiation and has a natural translucence to assist in medical imaging, including x-rays, MRIs, and CAT scans. This makes this polymer an ideal use for medical applications.
Mechanical Properties
PEEK exhibits superior creep resistance and high tensile strength. It can withstand pressures of up to 16,000 psi and flexural strength of 25,000 psi. It is the highest of high-performance polymers and has a metal-like durability.
Stainless Steel
Cost
Stainless steel is very expensive to produce due to the many additions of alloying elements like iron, chromium, nickel, manganese, and copper. This makes it much more expensive than plastic solutions.
Performance
Stainless steel is corrosion-resistant due to the addition of chromium. It adds an oxide layer, protecting the metal from degradation. It is also non-porous, further increasing its corrosion resistance.
It is also able to withstand high temperatures. There are many different grades of stainless steel, however, each is able to withstand high temperatures.
Mechanical Properties
This metal is highly durable and has a high impact resistance. It can also retain its shape in a wide range of temperatures and demanding environments. High tension can also be applied to the materials without failure.
Still Trying to Decide Between PEEK vs Stainless Steel? Ensinger is Here to Help
At Ensinger, we have the ability to machine a wide range of polymers to make sure your products exceed all of your requirements. We have decades of experience working with PEEK to create products in a wide range of industries.
Contact our team today to see what we can do for you.