Polyether Ether Ketone — High-Performance Thermoplastic
PEEK
PEEK is a high-performance semi-crystalline thermoplastic with outstanding mechanical strength retained at temperatures up to 260 °C continuous service (HT grades to 280 °C). We stock PEEK rod and sheet in natural, glass-filled, and carbon-filled grades, with machined parts available to order. PEEK's combination of chemical resistance, dimensional stability, and mechanical performance makes it the go-to engineering plastic where standard polymers cannot cope with the temperature or chemical environment.
At a Glance
Temperature Range
-60 °C to +260 °C continuous (standard PEEK); HT grades to +280 °C
Thickness Range
1 mm to 100 mm (sheet); 6 mm to 150 mm diameter (rod)
Available Forms
Colours
Brands We Stock
Technical Properties
Typical values across stocked grades. Specific grade data sheets available on request.
Chemical Resistance
Resistant To
- Hydrocarbons and petroleum fuels
- Dilute and moderate-strength acids
- Dilute and moderate-strength alkalis
- Ketones, alcohols, and esters
- Salt water and brine
- Saturated steam to 250 °C continuous (one of PEEK's hallmark properties — far better hydrolysis resistance than most thermoplastics)
- Hydraulic fluids
Limited Resistance
- Some halogenated solvents at elevated temperature
- UV radiation (yellows without additives, though mechanical properties stay unaffected short-term)
Not Recommended
- Concentrated sulphuric acid (>70%)
- Concentrated hydrofluoric acid
- Concentrated nitric acid and other strong oxidising acids at elevated temperature
Standards & Certifications
Standards Compliance
Common Applications
- Aerospace bearing cages and bushings
- Medical implants (spinal cages, trauma fixation)
- Chemical processing pump components and valve seats
- Semiconductor wafer carriers and handling equipment
- Oil and gas downhole seals and backup rings
- High-temperature electrical connectors
- Food processing conveyor wear strips
- Automotive transmission thrust washers
Not Recommended For
- Significantly more expensive than standard engineering plastics, typically 10–20× the cost of nylon or acetal
- Requires specific machining techniques: sharp carbide tooling, controlled feed rates, and flood coolant to avoid heat build-up
- Not UV-resistant without stabiliser additives. Outdoor applications require UV-stabilised grades or protective coatings
- Notch-sensitive in filled grades, so avoid sharp internal corners in machined parts
- High processing temperature (380–400 °C) limits the range of manufacturing methods compared to commodity plastics
Available Grades
Brands we stock: Victrex, Ensinger, Röchling
PEEK Natural (Unfilled)
General-purpose unreinforced PEEK with the best elongation, impact resistance, and chemical purity of the three grades. Our standard recommendation for chemical processing, food contact, and medical applications where regulatory compliance is required.
PEEK Glass Filled (30%)
PEEK reinforced with 30% short glass fibre for improved stiffness and creep resistance at elevated temperature. Dimensional stability under load is significantly better than unfilled PEEK, with a moderate increase in wear resistance. Used in structural bearing housings and pump components.
PEEK Carbon Filled (30%)
PEEK reinforced with 30% carbon fibre, delivering the highest stiffness, lowest friction coefficient, and best wear resistance of the three grades. Our recommendation for dry-running bearing surfaces, thrust washers, and high-load sliding applications.
Need PEEK?
We supply peek in sheet, roll, and custom die-cut forms. Contact our team for pricing, data sheets, or technical assistance.
Disclaimer
This resource is provided for general engineering reference only and does not constitute professional advice, specification, or guarantee of performance. Actual results depend on specific application conditions. Universal Gaskets Pty Ltd accepts no responsibility or liability for decisions made based on this information. For full terms, see our Terms & Conditions.