How does PEEK compare to PTFE?

While [PTFE](https://www.piedmontplastics.com/blog/a-guide-to-peek-ptfe-and-premium-polymers) excels in low-friction performance, PEEK offers significantly higher strength, stiffness, and thermal stability.

PEEK Plastic Sheet, Rod, and Tube

Common Properties

Common Brand Names TECAPEEK®, Ketron®, SustaPEEK, Semitron™
Typical Thickness Size 0.04 - 4 inches
Typical Lengths 12 - 48 inches
Typical Widths 12 - 24 inches
Friendly Names PEEK Plastic, Polyetheretherketone
Common Profiles Sheet, Rod, Tube
Typical Rod Diameters 0.25 - 6 inches
Typical Rod Lengths 3 - 5 feet
Typical Tube Diameter 30 – 210 mm

Physical Properties

Density 1.2g/cm³
Water Absorption 0.2%
Moisture Absorption at Equilibrium 0.15%
Linear Mold Shrinkage 0.005mm/mm
Melt Flow 12g/10 min

Electrical Properties

Dielectric Strength 160-220kV/mm
Dielectric Constant 3.2-3.4
Dissipation Factor 0.001-0.003
Volume Resistivity 10^16ohm·cm
Surface Resistivity 10^16ohm/sq
Arc Resistance 120-160secs
Comparative Tracking Index (CTI) 150volts
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Sensitivity Moderate

Mechanical Properties

Hardness, Rockwell R 126Rockwell R
Tensile Strength, Ultimate 90MPa
Tensile Strength, Yield 70MPa
Elongation at Break 20%
Elongation at Yield 6%
Modulus of Elasticity 3.6GPa
Flexural Yield Strength 120MPa
Flexural Modulus 4.2GPa
Compressive Yield Strength 118MPa
Bearing Yield Strength 137MPa
Shear Strength 80MPa
Izod Impact, Notched 53J/m
Izod Impact, Unnotched 800J/m
Gardner Impact 27J
Falling Dart Impact 28J
Instrumented Impact Total Energy 49J/m

Thermal Properties

CTE, linear 47.0um/m/°C
CTE, linear, Transverse to Flow 150.0um/m/°C
Deflection Temperature at 0.46 MPa (66 psi) 160.0°C
Deflection Temperature at 1.8 MPa (264 psi) 152.0°C
Vicat Softening Point 325.0°C
Flammability V-0UL94
Max Continuous Operating Temperature in F 500.0°F
Minimum Operating Temperature in F -148.0°F
Thermal Conductivity 0.25W/m·K

Regulations

UL-94 Flame Class
FDA
NSF
USP Class VI
FAR 25.853 Flammability
D635 Self Extinguishing
RoHS Compliant
REACH Compliant

Get a Quote for PEEK at Piedmont Plastics

PEEK, short for polyetheretherketone, is one of the highest-performing thermoplastics available today. Offered in sheet, rod, and tube, PEEK provides exceptional strength, stiffness, and wear resistance, along with outstanding thermal and chemical stability. Its balance of mechanical performance and machinability makes it an ideal choice for demanding environments where other plastics fail.

At Piedmont Plastics, we supply PEEK material to engineers, fabricators, and manufacturers across industries ranging from aerospace and automotive to medical and semiconductor. Contact us today to learn how PEEK can support your project requirements.

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Key Features of PEEK

PEEK is engineered to maintain reliable performance under extreme conditions. Its key properties include:

Excellent mechanical strength and stiffness
High temperature resistance (up to 480°F continuous use)
Outstanding chemical resistance, even against aggressive solvents
Low moisture absorption for dimensional stability
Superior wear and abrasion resistance
Excellent electrical insulating properties
Easy to machine into precision components

Benefits and Advantages

Choosing PEEK plastic means investing in a material that reduces downtime, increases reliability, and extends service life. Its resistance to heat, chemicals, and wear makes it a cost-effective solution for long-term performance.

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Common Applications

PEEK is trusted in industries that demand uncompromising performance:

Aerospace components: lightweight, high-strength parts for extreme environments
Medical devices: biocompatible and sterilization-resistant components
Semiconductor equipment: low outgassing and chemical resistance for cleanroom use
Automotive parts: durable components for engines, transmissions, and fuel systems
Oil and gas: seals, valve seats, and wear rings exposed to high pressures and chemicals
Electrical and electronic: insulating parts for high-voltage applications

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some commonly asked questions about PEEK plastic and its variations:

PEEK is available in sheet, rod, and tube to suit a variety of machining and fabrication needs.

Yes. Certain grades of PEEK are engineered for medical use, providing biocompatibility and resistance to sterilization methods. Contact your Piedmont Plastics sales representative to discuss the best option for your specific application requirements.

These are reinforced grades of PEEK designed to improve stiffness, strength, and wear resistance for more demanding applications.

While PTFE excels in low-friction performance, PEEK offers significantly higher strength, stiffness, and thermal stability.

Piedmont Plastics offers a wide selection of PEEK sheet, rod, and tube materials. With more than 50 locations across North America, we’re ready to supply the exact size and grade you need.

Why Buy from Piedmont Plastics?

Piedmont Plastics is your trusted source for high-performance plastics like PEEK. Partnering with us means more than purchasing material; you gain a dependable solutions provider committed to your success.

Nationwide network of branches: Local inventory and quick delivery across North America.
Custom cutting and fabrication services: Tailored solutions to match your exact specifications.
Deep industry expertise: Knowledgeable staff to guide material selection and applications.
Wide product selection: One-stop access to engineering plastics, composites, and specialty materials.