Over the past few decades, the trend of replacing metal parts with plastic alternatives has gained significant traction, and for good reason. Plastic parts provide lightweight solutions that decrease wear and tear on applications and systems, and they often exhibit better corrosion resistance as well as reduced noise and vibration. Plus, with the versatility of injection molding, the design of plastic parts is generally more flexible and easier to customize. That being said, it’s essential that plastic parts maintain the same performance level (or better) as their metal counterparts. For that, fewer plastic parts rise to the occasion like PEEK components.

The Technical Advantages of PEEK Components

PEEK, or polyetheretherketone, is a high-performance thermoplastic renowned for its exceptional properties and versatility across a number of demanding applications. As a result, PEEK components are highly sought after and often exhibit characteristics equal or superior to those of traditionally metal parts. A few of these include:

  • Superior mechanical strength — PEEK components exhibit excellent strength and stiffness, making them suitable for high-stress applications. They are also highly capable of withstanding impacts and other stresses without deformation or failure.
  • Thermal stability — PEEK parts can operate continuously at temperatures up to 260°C (500°F) and maintain their properties at these elevated temperatures.
  • Chemical resistance — Resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including acids, bases, solvents, and oils, PEEK components are ideal for corrosive environments.
  • Wear and tear resistance — PEEK parts exhibit low friction coefficients, reducing wear and extending the lifespan of parts. They are highly suitable for moving parts and high-friction applications.
  • Cost and manufacturing efficiency — While the initial material and manufacturing costs can be higher compared to other plastics, the long-term benefits of PEEK components — such as durability, reduced maintenance, and operational efficiency — often outweigh these costs in the long run.

Replacing Metal Parts with PEEK Components: Examples From Industry Applications

Aerospace Applications

PEEK components have become highly valuable in the aerospace industry, where performance, reliability, and compliance with stringent standards are critical. PEEK parts also offer a critical advantage over metal parts: weight reduction. PEEK is much lighter than aluminum or titanium, offering weight savings without compromising on strength or durability. PEEK is also critical in aerospace due to its resistance to chemicals and ability to work under incredibly high temperatures.

A few examples of PEEK parts in aerospace include engine components like bushing, bearings, seals, and gaskets; interior parts like panels and seating components; and structural components like fasteners, clips, and bracketry.

Medical Applications

PEEK components offer significant advantages in medical applications, especially when it comes to biocompatibility, sterilizability, mechanical properties, and imaging compatibility. These properties make PEEK parts safe, reliable, and effective for a wide range of medical devices and implants.

PEEK is a common choice for a wide range of applications including implants like spinal fusion cages, knee implants, and shoulder implants; surgical instruments like grips and handles; dental applications like prosthetics, bridges, and braces; and drug delivery systems like pumps and ports.

Oil & Gas Applications

In the oil & gas industry, PEEK components are extremely advantageous thanks to their corrosion resistance, durability in harsh environments, and compliance with industry regulations. For instance, PEEK is highly resistant to saltwater corrosion, making it suitable for offshore oil and gas operations where plastic parts are frequently exposed to seawater. PEEK also maintains its mechanical properties at high temperatures (up to 260°C or 500°F), making it suitable for use in environments such as downhole drilling operations.

A few examples of PEEK parts in the oil & gas industry include high pressure seals in wellheads and blowout preventers; valve components like seats, stems, and seals; and pump components like impellers, housings, and bushings.

Semiconductor Applications

PEEK components offer significant advantages in semiconductor applications, particularly in terms of electrical properties, dimensional stability, and resistance to the chemicals used in semiconductor manufacturing. For example, PEEK exhibits excellent dielectric strength, making it ideal for insulating applications in semiconductor manufacturing where maintaining electrical integrity is crucial. PEEK’s resistance to plasma etching processes also ensures longevity and durability in semiconductor fabrication equipment.

PEEK parts can be found in a variety of semiconductor applications such as wafer carriers and handling components like chucks, clamps, and wafer boats; insulating components like socket insulators and connector housings; and tooling and fixtures like retainers, supports, and fixtures for chemical processing.

Get Expertly Manufactured PEEK Components With Ensinger

At Ensinger, we specialize in working with high-performance polymers like PEEK to deliver components that meet our customers’ strictest specifications. Our U.S.-based manufacturing facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art injection molding equipment and technology, and our team has years of experience in the industry. If you work in a demanding industry like medical, aerospace, or oil & gas, we have the capabilities to deliver the plastic components you need. Get in touch today to get started.