PEEK and Ultem are two of the most advanced thermoplastics on the market; both are available for both medical and industrial applications. They’re also available with modifiers such as glass fibers to improve performance or even reduce cost. But how do you know which one is right for your product’s application?
PEEK (Polyether ether ketone) offers unmatched performance under extreme heat (up to 480°F), high pressure, and chemical exposure. It’s often used in aerospace, military defense, automotive, petrochemical, and surgical devices where failure is not an option. PEEK is available with modifiers to improve performance for specific requirements.
Ultem (Polyetherimide) provides excellent strength, heat resistance (up to 340°F), and flame retardancy at a lower cost than PEEK. It’s a great option for medical, petrochemical, housing, electrical connectors, and structural parts. Ultem is available with modifiers to improve performance for specific requirements.
Consider PEEK if:
- Your part needs long-term heat resistance above 400°F
- Chemical or sterilization resistance is critical
- Your part needs to support a high-demand medical, aerospace, chemical, or military defense application.
Consider Ultem if:
- Your part has complex geometries or needs a flame rating
- You’re in medical, electronics, defense, or transportation
At Action Plastic Injection Molding, we’ve processed millions of parts using both PEEK and Ultem. Let our team help guide your resin selection.
Ready to get started? Call us at (714) 978-0333 to explore your project with our team.
Also read: What to Look for in a High-Performance Injection Molding Partner