Machining PEEK

JACO Machine Works machines PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) polymer to make precision parts for critical applications across the aerospace, medical, surgical and electrical industries. Due to its low weight and high strength, PEEK provides outstanding resistance to harsh chemicals, steam, water, and high temperatures. With superb mechanical properties, strength, and dimensional stability, PEEK polymers have become an ideal replacement for a wide range of machined metals in high-performance applications.

Attributes and Properties

High mechanical strength and stiffness
Ease of machinability and fabrication
Excellent wear, friction, and crack resistance
Great chemical resistance, including at high temperatures
UL 94 V-0 flammability rating
Hydrolysis resistance to steam, water and sea water
Ability to withstand up to 3,000 autoclave sterilization cycles
Compatible with high vacuum applications
Low smoke and toxic gas generation when exposed to flame
Superior resistance to gamma and x-rays
Fully recyclable

Industrial Applications

Medical: PEEK is widely used across various medical applications due to its superior properties. From dental syringe handles to sterilization boxes, PEEK serves as a more effective, sustainable, and less wasteful alternative to aluminum and other metals. Its improved biocompatibility makes it ideal for load-bearing implants, such as spinal cages and joint replacements. PEEK can withstand up to 3,000 autoclave sterilization cycles at temperatures reaching up to 134°C, making it optimal for use in sterilization trays and boxes.

Aerospace: PEEK’s resistance to harsh chemicals and environments - along with its ability to withstand thermal degradation and cracking at continuous use temperatures up to 480°F (260°C) - makes it an invaluable material in the aerospace and defense sectors. It is used in critical engine parts, structural components, and aircraft exterior parts due to its high strength-to-weight ratio and excellent wear resistance. PEEK’s flame resistance and low smoke emission also make it suitable for use in aircraft interiors.

Electrical Connectors: PEEK provides excellent mechanical and chemical stability, combined with exceptional wear resistance, making it ideal for electrical connectors and insulators. Its high dielectric strength and thermal stability allow PEEK to withstand high voltages and extreme temperatures without compromising performance. PEEK is frequently used in the handling and storage of silicon wafers and can endure the soldering process, ensuring reliability in extreme conditions with high levels of temperature, pressure, and frequency fluctuations. This makes PEEK a preferred material for advanced electrical and electronic components, including connectors used in demanding applications like aircraft engines and high-pressure, high-temperature environments.

Machining Plastic at JACO

If you’re developing plastic machined components and wish to know more about their machinability, JACO Machine Works is ready to review your program and offer support. No matter your application, our skilled engineers and operations professionals are dedicated to helping you succeed. We are pleased to offer the following machining services for your next project: