CNC machining materials
Plastics are another common material used in CNC turning because they are available in many different options, are relatively inexpensive, and have faster machining times. Commonly used plastics include ABS, acrylic, polycarbonate and nylon.
PEEK is a high-performance thermoplastic material known for its excellent mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and biocompatibility. It is often used in demanding applications that require high strength and resistance to sterilization processes.
Implantable medical devices
Surgical instruments
Aerospace components
Oil and gas industry components
High strength and stiffness
Excellent chemical resistance
Biocompatible and sterilizable
Good dimensional stability
High cost
Difficult to process
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PEEK (Polyether ether ketone) is a high-performance thermoplastic polymer that belongs to the family of polyaryletherketones. It is derived from the condensation polymerization of biphenyl and 4,4'-difluorobenzophenone.
One of the key advantages of PEEK is its excellent mechanical strength and stiffness. It has a high tensile strength, flexural strength, and modulus of elasticity, allowing it to withstand heavy loads and resist deformation. PEEK also exhibits good dimensional stability, maintaining its shape and size even under varying temperature conditions.
PEEK is widely used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical, and chemical processing. In aerospace applications, PEEK is used for components that require high strength, stiffness, and resistance to extreme temperatures. In the medical field, PEEK is used for implants and devices due to its biocompatibility, resistance to sterilization methods, and ability to withstand bodily fluids.
PEEK also offers good electrical insulation properties, making it suitable for electrical and electronic applications. It has a low dielectric constant and loss factor, allowing it to maintain its electrical performance even at high frequencies.