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PEEK (Polyetheretherketone)
Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is a semicrystalline high-performance thermoplastic that offers exceptionally high strength and toughness over a wide range of temperatures.
What is PEEK (Polyetheretherketone)?
Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is a semicrystalline high-performance thermoplastic that offers exceptionally high strength and toughness over a wide range of temperatures. PEEK maintains its properties when exposed to temperature extremes, moisture, chemical attack or physical stress.
PEEK is one of the high-performance engineering resins we extrude for medical tubing that needs strength, heat resistance or stiffness. Compare it with the other resins on our engineering resins page, or call us to talk through your application.
PEEK tubing
PEEK tubing is chosen when a tube has to stay strong and stiff through heat, moisture, chemicals and repeated sterilization. We extrude PEEK into custom medical tubing, including thin wall PEEK with walls held as thin as 12.5 microns (0.0005 inch). Compare PEEK with PEI, polysulfone and other high-performance options on our engineering resins page.
PEEK questions, answered
What is the melting point of PEEK?
Typical melting points for PEEK grades on our datasheet are 644°F (340°C) to 649°F (343°C). Its glass transition temperature is 289°F (143°C).
What is the tensile strength of PEEK?
Tensile strength at break for PEEK runs 16,000 psi (110.3 MPa), with elongation at break of 50% to 60%.
What is the density of PEEK?
PEEK has a specific gravity of 0.0470 lb./in.3 (1.30 g/cc), which corresponds to a density of about 1.30 g/cm³.
How hard is PEEK?
On our datasheet, PEEK grades measure Shore A 99.
How can PEEK tubing be sterilized?
Depending on grade, PEEK is compatible with ethylene oxide (EtO), gamma radiation, steam autoclaving and vaporized hydrogen peroxide. Confirm the method for your specific grade with the resin supplier.
Does MicroSpec extrude PEEK tubing?
Yes. We extrude PEEK into custom medical tubing, including multi-lumen, bump and co-extruded designs. Send us your print or call 603.924.4300 for a quote.
PEEK (Polyetheretherketone) properties
| Property | Measure low | Measure high |
|---|---|---|
| Specific gravity | 0.0470 lb./in.3 (1.30 g/cc) | |
| Melting point | 644°F (340°C) | 649°F (343°C) |
| Glass transition temperature | 289°F (143°C) | |
| Tensile strength at break | 16,000 psi (110.3 MPa) | |
| Elongation at break | 50% | 60% |
| Hardness durometer (Shore A) | 99 | |
| Hardness durometer (Shore D) | 126 | |
| Water absorption @ 24 hours | 0.5% | |
This material datasheet is presented for reference only. Characteristics and performance may vary for a specific application and environment. Confirm material selection and suitability against your own requirements and the resin supplier's documentation.
Sterilization
- Ethylene oxide (EtO) Gamma radiation Steam autoclaving Vaporized hydrogen peroxide
Other engineering resins & peek tubing we extrude.
Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT)
Semi-crystalline engineering thermoplastic
Polycarbonate (PC)
Amorphous engineering thermoplastic
Polyetherimide (PEI)
Amorphous high-performance polymer
Polysulfone (PSU)
Amorphous engineering polymer
Extruding PEEK for your device?
Send us your specs, drawing or just describe the problem. A member of our team will follow up personally to walk through tolerances, materials and schedule.
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Have full drawings and tolerances? Use our detailed request form.