PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone)
An ultra-high-performance semi-crystalline thermoplastic with exceptional mechanical, thermal, and chemical resistance properties for demanding automotive applications.
Overview
PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) is one of the highest-performance engineering thermoplastics commercially available, offering remarkable mechanical strength, stiffness, and toughness at elevated temperatures up to 260°C continuous service. It is inherently flame retardant, chemically resistant to virtually all automotive fluids, and has excellent tribological (wear and friction) properties. In automotive applications, PEEK is used as a metal replacement in high-load, high-temperature environments: thrust washers, bearing cages, pump components, piston skirts, and under-bonnet electrical components. Carbon or glass fibre reinforced PEEK grades offer further improvements in strength and thermal performance. Its high cost limits use to critical components where performance justifies the premium.
Automotive Applications
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Properties
Category
Type
High-Performance Polymer
Available Colors
Available Forms
Key Properties
- High continuous service temperature (260°C)
- Excellent chemical resistance
- High mechanical strength
- Inherently flame retardant
- Low wear and friction
- Biocompatible
- Metal replacement capability
Technical Specifications
Density
1.30–1.32 g/cm³
Tensile Strength
100–200 MPa (unfilled to CF-reinforced)
Temperature Resistance
Up to 260°C continuous; 300°C peak
Sustainability
Sustainability Rating
PEEK can be recycled and reprocessed. Its long service life and metal-replacement capability can reduce system weight and maintenance intervals, improving lifecycle sustainability.