7 Alternatives To Peek: Plastic Polymers

Peek or polyetheretherketone is a superior thermoplastic polymer used in engineering and medical applications because of its low 7% failure rate. A high-performance plastic polymer, it serves a variety of applications. This is due to its strength, chemical resistance, and high-temperature resistance. There are many other plastic polymers that also have unique properties. These can function as a peek alternative in certain applications. In this article, we will explore 7 peek alternatives useful in the food industry, the medical field, and the automotive industry.

What are Plastic Polymers?

Plastic polymers are large molecules made of repeating chemical units called monomers. They can serve in the production of a variety of products. There are many types of plastic polymers, each with unique properties. Plastic polymers can be molded and colored for various applications using methods including injection molding, blow molding, and extrusion. They are popular due to their low cost, versatility, and ease of processing. They can also be environmentally harmful due to their non-biodegradable nature and potential for pollution during production and disposal. Here are 7 alternatives to PEEK, the superior plastic polymer.

1. ABS

ABS is a thermoplastic polymer with toughness, impact resistance, and high-temperature resistance. The automotive and construction industries take advantage of it, as well as countless consumer product companies. ABS has good dimensional stability, chemical resistance, and UV resistance, and is easy to process.

It is also tough and impact resistant and you can mold and color it for various applications. Some common applications for ABS include:

• Automotive parts, such as dashboard panels and bumpers
• Construction materials, such as pipes and conduits
• Consumer products, such as toys, appliances, and sporting goods
• Medical devices, such as blood glucose monitors and inhalers
• Electronics, such as computer housings and printer components

2. Acrylic

Acrylic, also known as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), is a transparent plastic. It is good for applications where transparency, durability, and weather resistance are important. Some common uses for acrylic include:

• Display cases and museum exhibits
• Windows and skylights
• Signs and displays
• Automotive parts
• Lighting fixtures
• Furniture

Acrylic is known for its high level of clarity, making it an excellent choice for applications where visibility is important. It is strong and resistant to breaking, making it a good choice for use in high-traffic areas or for applications where the plastic may be subjected to impact. Acrylic is resistant to UV radiation, making it a good choice for outdoor applications where it may be exposed to sunlight. It is much lighter than glass, making it easier to handle and install.

Acrylic can be easily cut, drilled, and shaped using a variety of methods, making it a versatile material for use in a wide range of applications.

3. Nylon

Nylon is a synthetic polymer with strength, durability, and flexibility. Used in the manufacturing of mechanical parts and textiles and it has properties such as:

• Chemical resistance
• UV resistance
• The ability to be molded and colored.

Nylon is resistant to wear, is flexible, and you can mold it using various methods. Some common applications for nylon include:

• Mechanical parts, such as gears, bearings, and bushings
• Textiles, such as clothing, carpets, and ropes
• Industrial filtration systems
• Automotive parts, such as fuel and brake lines
• Consumer products, such as bags, backpacks, and luggage
• Medical devices, such as catheters and suture thread

4. PTFE

PTFE is a synthetic fluoropolymer with low friction, non-stick properties, and high-temperature resistance. Used in industrial, automotive, and consumer products, it has properties such as:

• Chemical resistance
• UV resistance

PTFE is often used in the manufacturing of seals, gaskets, and bearings. It is also used in cookware and other kitchen products. It has a high melting point and is resistant to high temperatures.

Some common applications for PTFE include:

• Industrial seals and gaskets
• Bearings and bushings
• Cookware and bakeware
• Pipe fittings and valve components
• Automotive parts, such as fuel lines and brake hoses
• Medical devices, such as catheters and suture thread

5. Polycarbonate

Polycarbonate is a strong, stiff plastic with high impact resistance and excellent electrical insulation properties. Used in the automotive and aerospace industries, as well as in consumer electronics. It has properties such as chemical resistance and UV resistance.

Some common applications for polycarbonate include:

• Automotive parts, such as dashboard panels and bumpers
• Aerospace components
• Consumer electronics, such as phone cases and computer housings
• Medical devices, such as intravenous bags and tubing
• Industrial components, such as gears and bearings
• Construction materials, such as windows and skylights

6. Polyethylene

Polyethylene is a synthetic polymer with versatility, flexibility, and chemical resistance. Used in a variety of industries, including food, medicine, and construction, it has properties such as:

• Chemical resistance
• Strength
• Flexibility
• Lightweight

You can mold and color it for various applications using methods including:

• Injection molding
• Blow molding
• Extrusion

It is also resistant to UV radiation, making it suitable for outdoor use. Some common applications include:

• Food packaging, such as bags, containers, and wraps
• Medical supplies, such as sterilization containers and intravenous bags
• Construction materials, such as pipes and conduits
• Consumer products, such as toys and household items
• Industrial components, such as gears and bearings
• Automotive parts, such as fuel lines and brake hoses

7. Ultem

Ultem is a high-performance plastic polymer with high-temperature resistance, strength, and chemical resistance. Used in the aerospace, medical, and electrical industries, It has properties such as:

• High melting point
• Thermal resistance
• UV resistance

Ultem is suitable for use in high-temperature and outdoor environments. You can mold it using various methods including injection molding and extrusion.

Some common applications for Ultem include:

• Aerospace components, such as cockpit windows and radomes
• Medical devices, such as surgical instruments and drug-delivery systems
• Electrical components, such as insulators and connectors
• Industrial components, such as gears and bearings
• Consumer products, such as sporting goods and automotive parts

Find the Best Peek Alternative for Your Business

There are many peek alternatives, that can serve a variety of applications. Each of these plastic alternatives has its own unique properties and can be used in a range of industries. These include the food industry, the medical field, and the automotive industry.

Severna is a producer of precision-manufactured plastic components. We can help you determine the best peek alternative for your specific application. We have years of experience and the expertise necessary to get the job done. Request a quote today and let’s get started.