Category: Aerospace and Defense

 

In the highly demanding conditions of space, the selection of materials used for spacecraft and associated systems are critical to mission success. The advent of advanced plastics, specifically high-temperature resistant polymers, has ushered in a new era of resilience and efficiency in the space industry.

These polymers, characterized by their exceptional performance under severe conditions, have proven to be indispensable in the design and construction of spacecraft components. In this informative brief from AIP Precision Machining, we explore the benefits of high-performance polymers, specifically their role in enhancing reliability, longevity and performance of spacecraft systems.

 

Critical Advantages of High-Performance Polymers in Demanding Spacecraft Applications

Employed in demanding spacecraft applications, plastics confer a multitude of tangible benefits. These materials exhibit low outgassing characteristics under vacuum conditions, an attribute critical for avoiding contamination in extreme outer space environments. They exhibit minimal friction, demonstrating significant life expectancy and diminished wear on interfacing metal components in vacuum, crucial for the overall durability and operational longevity of integral spacecraft apparatus.

Superior sealing capabilities, coupled with a consistent actuation torque when incorporated in spacecraft valves, affirm their practical utility in these complex mechanical systems. Inherent resistance to solvents, propellants, and other corrosive agents ensures their survival against the aggressive chemical milieu found in space. Moreover, these materials are resilient to radiation, sourced both internally and externally from the spacecraft, and exhibit noteworthy resistance to atomic oxygen-induced erosion.

The temperature adaptability of these plastics is demonstrated by their operational reliability within the space environment, where temperatures range from -150°C to 130°C, and they exhibit resistance to elevated temperatures in rocket engine applications. Exhibiting optimal flammability characteristics, these materials are compatible with both liquid oxygen (LOX) and gaseous oxygen (GOX), critical for maintaining safety in the highly reactive environments of spacecraft.

A key advantage of these plastics is their minimal moisture absorption prior to flight, a feature that preserves their structural and operational integrity. Additionally, they maintain excellent dimensional stability, exhibiting a low and consistent coefficient of thermal expansion.

These materials possess mechanical properties robust enough to withstand the extreme stresses associated with launch. Their lightweight nature, high specific strength and high specific modulus, contribute to the overall mass efficiency and increase payload capabilities of spacecraft. The excellent fatigue resistance of these materials, enabling them to withstand vibration and thermal cycling, is a vital aspect of spacecraft longevity.

Electrical insulation is another key application for these materials, which exhibit high dielectric strength, low dielectric constant, and low dissipation factor across a wide range of temperatures and frequencies. This is important when these materials are used for spacecraft antenna radomes. Their low thermal conductivity makes them apt choices for thermal insulation applications. Further, these materials possess vibration-damping characteristics, a critical requirement for safeguarding sensitive optics and electronics onboard spacecraft.

 

Types of High-Performance Polymers Used on Spacecraft Applications

 

The space environment presents a myriad of challenges that place considerable demands on the materials used in spacecraft. To meet these requirements, it’s crucial to turn to materials that offer superior performance characteristics. High-performance plastics stand at the forefront of this revolution, providing a unique blend of properties such as exceptional thermal resistance, chemical resilience, and structural integrity.

Let’s delve into the advantages of three high-performance plastics— ULTEM®, TORLON®, and VESPEL®—including their properties, benefits, and common applications. Each of these materials brings a unique set of benefits for aerospace applications, and understanding these nuances is key to harnessing their full potential.

 

Ultem:

Ultem®, an amorphous thermoplastic polyetherimide (PEI) resin, is renowned for its exceptional thermal resistance, dielectric strength, stiffness, and good chemical resistance, making it a material pick for various space and rocket propulsion systems applications.

Ultem’s notable characteristics are high processability, dimensional stability, environmental stress resistance, and flammability resistance, all of which are critical for the harsh and unpredictable conditions of space. It also offers long-term heat resistance, which is a significant factor for components exposed to extreme temperatures, which is beneficial for rocket launches.

Ultem’s elevated tensile strength of 15,200psi and consistent performance up to 340ºF underline its suitability for high-strength applications in the space industry. Its long-term creep resistance ensures the material does not deform under long-term mechanical stress. This makes it an excellent substitute for metal in many structural applications of spacecraft and rockets. The inherent flame resistance, chemical and hydrolysis resistance, and one of the highest dielectric strengths (830 V/mil ASTM D194) among thermoplastics are additional advantages that Ultem provides.

This material’s unique processability and dimensional stability, combined with its mechanical properties, provide considerable flexibility and freedom to design engineers. As a result, Ultem can be used in diverse components, including electrical insulators and parts of the propulsion system that require high strength and heat resistance.

Ultem’s versatility also extends to underwater connector bodies, an essential aspect in certain space missions that involve water landing of spacecraft. Furthermore, its unique dielectric properties make it suitable for analytical instrumentation and semiconductor process components found in spacecraft and satellites.

In summary, Ultem, with its balanced mechanical properties and processability, offers unique solutions to the space research industry’s demanding requirements. It is a premier high-temperature resistant polymer in the design and construction of spacecraft, rocket propulsion systems, and satellites.

 

PROPERTIES	COMMON USES
●        Dimensional Stability ●        Environmental Stress Resistance ●        Flammability Resistance ●        High Processability ●        High Stiffness ●        High Strength ●        Long-Term Heat Resistance ●        Smoke Generation Resistance ●        Toxicity Resistance	●        Analytical Instrumentation ●        Dielectric Properties Required ●        Electrical Insulators ●        High Strength Applications ●        Reusable Medical Devices ●        Semiconductor Process Components ●        Structural Components ●        Underwater Connector Bodies

 

Torlon®:

Torlon®, Polyamide-Imide (PAI) resin, is one of the highest-performing, melt-processible plastics. Due to its ability to retain strength and stiffness up to 500°F (260°C), its excellent wear resistance, and ability to endure severe thermal, chemical, and stress conditions, Torlon finds its place in many critical applications within space and rocket propulsion systems.

Several grades of Torlon are available, each with specific use cases. These include Torlon® 4203 (primarily for electrical and high-strength applications), Torlon® 4301 (general-purpose wear), Torlon® 4XG (glass-reinforced), and Torlon® 4XCF (carbon-reinforced). These varieties allow for a wide range of applications based on specific needs within the space industry.

 

See the Specs → Discover Torlon’s Grades for Aerospace Applications

 

One of the notable characteristics of Torlon PAI is its high compressive strength, which is double that of PEEK and about 30% higher than Ultem PEI. This impressive strength, paired with the highest tensile strength of any unreinforced thermoplastic (21,000 psi), ensures that Torlon-based components can withstand the extreme mechanical stresses during a rocket launch and space travel.

Torlon also offers excellent wear and radiation resistance, both of which are essential properties for materials used in space environments. Inherent low flammability and smoke emission make it an ideal material for high temperature and potentially hazardous conditions present in rocket propulsion systems.

Torlon’s extremely low thermal expansion and superior creep resistance make it an excellent choice for tight-tolerance applications. This is especially useful in space applications where maintaining precise dimensional tolerances is crucial for system reliability and efficiency.

Structural parts of spacecraft and rocket propulsion systems are areas where Torlon is extensively used, as these parts must resist the high temperature and intense stress conditions of space travel. High-temperature electrical connectors, a critical component for successful signal transmission and data collection in spacecraft and satellites, can also benefit from the use of Torlon due to its excellent thermal resistance and high strength.

Moreover, Torlon’s excellent wear resistance and strength make it suitable for wear rings and valve seats in rocket engines, contributing to the longevity and efficiency of propulsion systems. It’s also used in bearing cages that support the rotation of mechanical parts, aiding in the smooth operation of various systems within the spacecraft.

However, Torlon’s moisture absorption rate, while not as low as other high-performance plastics, should be taken into account when designing components for use in humid environments. This consideration is essential to ensure the longevity and performance of Torlon-based parts in all space missions.

Overall, Torlon, with its excellent thermal, chemical, and stress resistance, coupled with high strength and stiffness, offers significant advantages in the design and construction of spacecraft, rocket propulsion systems, and satellites, thus playing a critical role in the space industry’s advancements.

 

PROPERTIES	COMMON USES
●        Excellent Chemical Resistance ●        Excellent Stress Resistance ●        Excellent Thermal Resistance ●        Excellent Wear Resistance ●        High Stiffness ●        High Strength	●        Bearing Cages ●        High-Temperature Electrical Connectors ●        Structural Parts ●        Valve Seats ●        Wear Rings ●        Seals

 

Vespel®:

The high-performance polyimide resin Vespel® is a well-known name in the aerospace, semiconductor, and transportation technology industries. It is highly valued for its combination of heat resistance, lubricity, dimensional stability, chemical resistance, and creep resistance. This balance of properties makes it particularly suitable for use in extreme and hostile environmental conditions, such as those encountered in space.

One of the remarkable characteristics of Vespel is its high-temperature resistance. This makes it ideal for use in the space industry where materials are frequently subjected to extreme temperatures. Furthermore, Vespel does not exhibit significant outgassing, even at high temperatures. This makes it useful for manufacturing lightweight heat shields and crucible support structures for spacecraft and rocket propulsion systems, where any outgassing could cause contamination and performance issues.

Vespel’s outstanding strength and impact resistance combined with low wear rates also contribute to its broad use in the space industry. Rocket propulsion systems and satellites need materials that can withstand extreme conditions while maintaining their mechanical properties. With its ability to retain mechanical properties at very high temperatures (up to 500ºF), Vespel serves as an excellent candidate for these systems.

Vespel’s high resistance to chemical corrosion makes it a suitable choice for parts that might come into contact with various industrial hydraulic fluids, fuels, and solvents during the spacecraft and satellite operations. This chemical resistance contributes to the longevity and reliability of the systems where Vespel is used. The chart below shows a breakdown of Vespel’s chemical resistance to common industrial fluids:

 

Chemical Media	F	K	Time Hrs.	% Tensile Strength Retained by SP-1
Industrial Fluids
Hydraulic Fluid	248	393	1000	100
JP-4 Jet Fuel	210	372	1900	80
Jet Engine Oils	500	533	600	60 (90)(2)
Mineral Oil	392	473	1000	70  (90)(2)
Silicone Fluid	500	533	1000	70 (85)(2)
Ticresyl Phosphate (oil additive)	500	533	1000	80

 

In vacuum applications and extremely low cryogenic temperatures, Vespel performs exceptionally well, which is crucial for many space applications. Vespel’s ability to perform from cryogenic to extremely high temperatures results in a great seat or seal material for propulsion fuel systems. Despite absorbing a small amount of water that can lead to longer pump times in a vacuum, its overall performance in vacuum environments is commendable.

The ease with which Vespel can be machined to achieve complex geometries and tight tolerances offers great flexibility to design engineers. This allows for the creation of unique, intricate components necessary in aerospace applications, from bearings to critical aircraft parts.

 

Looking for design freedom and cost effective options? See how CNC machining stacks up against other plastics machining techniques.

 

While some polymers may surpass Vespel in individual properties, the combination of strength, temperature resistance, stability, and low outgassing sets Vespel apart, making it a trusted choice for various applications in the space industry and rocket propulsion systems.

 

PROPERTIES	COMMON USES
●        High-Temperature Resistance ●        Overcomes Severe Sealing and Wear ●        Withstands Harsh Environments	●        Aerospace Applications ●        Semiconductor Technology ●        Transportation Technology

 

Advancing aerospace edge technologies with AIP’s Unrivaled Expertise

In this examination of high-performance polymers ULTEM® PEI, TORLON® PAI, and VESPEL® Resin we’ve underscored the pivotal role they play in advancing the frontier of space exploration. The impressive array of traits they exhibit — such as superior chemical, thermal, and stress resistance, low outgassing rates, limited moisture uptake, exceptional mechanical strength and rigidity — are all indispensable to thrive in an extraterrestrial environment.

Crucially, these materials show resilience under extreme operating conditions, as well as superior dimensional stability, low coefficients of thermal expansion, and high resistance to radiation and microcracking. These properties collectively ensure the structural integrity and longevity of spacecraft during challenging space missions.

As we propel further into an era characterized by heightened space exploration activity, the judicious choice and application of these high-performance materials become increasingly critical. By integrating these materials into spacecraft, we not only boost the performance and lifespan of these vehicles but also enhance the cost-efficiency of space missions through weight minimization.

The importance of high-performance plastics and composites in current and future space initiatives is irrefutable. These materials, with their unparalleled and advantageous properties, are catalyzing unprecedented advancements in space technology, and in turn, accelerating our journey into the cosmos.

At AIP, we are steadfastly committed to advancing the frontiers of materials science to meet the needs of the most challenging applications, including those in the space sector. We invite you to join us on this exciting journey of discovery and innovation. Partner with AIP and leverage our expertise in high-performance materials to propel your space technology solutions to new heights. Contact us today to learn how our solutions can help you overcome your space application challenges and realize your objectives. Together, let’s shape the future of space exploration.

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Why PEEK Plastic Material Biocompatibility Is the Standard in Orthopedic Surgery

Medical-grade Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is a radiolucent high-performance polymer alternative to metallic biomaterials. It comes in different versions ranging from unfilled grades with varying molecular weight, to those with image-contrast and carbon fiber-reinforcement grades for demanding medical treatments inside the body or in the operating room. Carbon-reinforced PEEK is similar in strength to cortical bone, making it an attractive biomaterial for spinal fusion surgery, and reduce stress shielding.

In orthopedics, PEEK has been used for intervertebral cages, posterior & anterior instrumentation, and standard lumbar fusion. Additionally, clinical studies of PEEK for cervical fusion have revealed its advantages over titanium or cadaver bone.

 

As this material continues to gain traction in the orthopedic industry, it has shown superior qualities over stainless steel and titanium for biocompatibility, radiolucency, and durability.

 

A Brief History of PEEK in Orthopedic Surgery

 

Since the 1980s, Polyaryletherketones (PEEK) have been utilized as biomaterials in trauma, orthopedic, and spinal implants. Due to its relative inertness, radiolucency and chemical resistance, PEEK has had the greatest clinical impact in spine implant design.

 

Laboratory studies during the 1990s confirmed that PEEK implants had the needed combination of wear, strength, creep, and fatigue resistance to replace the metallic biomaterials in spinal implants. An intervertebral fusion cage was the first piece of spinal instrumentation that had been made with PEEK rather than metal. It was implanted in 1999 and made with PEEK-OPTIMA™ from Invibio Biomaterial Solutions.

 

The Future of PEEK Beyond Spinal Implants

 

Since then, PEEK has only expanded as a performance biomaterial for instrumented spine surgery. In the United States, spine fusion is one of the leading surgeries for patients who suffer from chronic neck and back pain that does not respond to preliminary treatments.

 

According to Orthopedic Design & Technology, around 215,000 Americans underwent spine fusion procedures in 1997. By 2007 that number had increased to 402,000. PEEK is now an established biomaterial that will only continue to expand.

 

The Biocompatibility and Biostability of PEEK

PEEK displays excellent biocompatibility and biostability as a performance medical-grade material. To differentiate, let’s briefly discuss biocompatibility versus biostability.

 

Biocompatibility – The biological requirements of a biomaterial or biomaterials used in a medical device. When it comes into contact with human tissue and fluids, it’s compatible with the environment and will not incur adverse effects.

 

Biostability – The ability of a material to maintain its physical and chemical integrity after implantation into living tissue. The FDA mandates that any medical material that comes into direct or indirect contact with human tissue and fluids must maintain mechanical and molecular integrity.

 

Anything touching or interacting with human tissue and bone must be both biocompatible and biostable for a patient. This is one area where metals fail compared to PEEK. Metals like titanium are a standard material for spinal fusion, yet clinical studies continue to reveal the advantages of PEEK.

 

Benefits of PEEK for Spinal Fusion

PEEK has a growing advocacy in the field of orthopedics for cervical fusion as well as spinal fusion. Published literature supports the material’s advantages and highlights these key benefits for patients with spinal and cervical fusion surgery:

• • Improved spinal alignment and geometry
• • Reduced hospital stays and decreased blood loss
• • Decreased complication rates
• • Good/excellent functional outcomes and improved patient satisfaction
• • Excellent fusion rates

 

Biomaterial Comparison: PEEK Versus Metals

When it comes to standards of medical biomaterials, PEEK tends to outshine metals such as stainless steel and even titanium alloy.

 

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel has the advantage of being inexpensive, durable, and easily alloyed. However, as medical practices have advanced, stainless steel is often replaced by titanium and PEEK implants for spinal fusions.

 

First, stainless steel has low biocompatibility and is more likely to leech artifacts due to corrosion once implanted. This is a danger to patient safety and increases the need for surgeries overtime. PEEK, on the other hand, closely resembles cortical bone tissue and is flexible enough to graft onto tissue.

 

Additionally, metals like stainless steel visually obscure the healing site under fluoroscopy, making it more difficult for doctors to see whether the spine is healing correctly when doing checkups via X-rays or MRIs. Conversely, PEEK is a radiolucent material that offers ease, comfort, and a clear view to monitor stability and healing.

 

Titanium Alloy

Titanium alloy is an accepted standard biomaterial for spinal and cervical fusion surgeries. Compared to PEEK, it has a similar rate of fusion for cervical and lumbar spine fusions.

 

One potential complication of spinal fusion is the subsidence of disc height in the post-operative period. Recent studies to assess subsidence in titanium and PEEK cages showed a notably increased rate of subsidence in titanium versus PEEK in patient follow-ups.

 

This is a serious concern for surgeons looking to improve the rate of patient recovery and lessen repeat spinal fusion surgery. In this regard, PEEK is a superior performance material for safer and better spinal fusion practices.

 

Advancing Orthopedic Innovation With Medical-grade PEEK

 

The fields of orthopedics and spinal fusion continue to research new methods for best practices in the industry. Over the last three decades, medical-grade PEEK has established itself as the performance biomaterial of choice for surgeons and OEMs. Medical device design demands the highest level of sanitation, biocompatibility, and precision in one of the most extreme environments, the human body.

 

As a material that closely resembles cortical bone, PEEK has an established advantage over other metals such as titanium that have shown degradation and leeching over time. As OEMs search to expand the horizon of orthopedic medicine, PEEK polymer machinists like AIP stand at the ready to provide unrivaled expertise on design, function, and quick prototyping.

 

Talk to a team member from AIP about your next medical grade PEEK project. 

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Torlon® Takes the Heat in Mission-Critical Aerospace Components

 

Few businesses on the planet share the same level of scrutiny towards their components as those in the aerospace industry. The material properties of Torlon® are what make the high-performance thermoplastic a top material pick in the industry.

 

To pass the benchmark, aerospace components must be:

• – Impervious to corrosive and oxidizing chemicals
• – Able to function in both cold and hot environments
• – Lightweight to reduce overall vehicle weight and increase payload
• – Strong enough to withstand constant friction, impact, wear, temperature extremes, and high pressures

 

Few polymer materials can check all those boxes, but Torlon® is among them. For decades aerospace OEMs have relied on Torlon® to solve unique challenges in the aerospace and defense sector. One of its most outstanding properties is the ability to maintain mechanical stability at extreme temperatures. For this reason, it’s often used for bushings, fasteners, and screws in Boeing 787s and even F-16 fuel and air connectors.

 

Properties of Torlon®

Besides incredible thermal stability and resistance rivaling aluminum, copper, and steel, Torlon®  is well known for its strength under pressure and chemical resistance. Torlon’s benefits include the following:

 

• – Wear resistance in dry and lubricated environments
• – Maintains strength and stiffness up to 500°F (260°C)
• – Low-temperature toughness and impact strength
• – Chemical resistance, including acids and most organics
• – Low creep and wear under load
• – Excellent compressive strength and extremely low CLTE
• – Low flammability and smoke generation

 

 

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High-Temperature Wear Resistance

Torlon® falls within the family of imidized performance polymers. Celazole® (PBI), VESPEL® (PI), and Torlon® (PAI) all perform at elevated temperatures up to and above 500°F (260°C). These grades of thermoplastics have resistance to chemicals, steam, and wear. Torlon® PAI is often accepted as a metal replacement in aerospace applications where temperatures range from cryogenic to extreme heat, and the application requires thermal/electrical insulation and weight reduction.

 

 

Torlon® Solves Tough Aerospace Challenges

 

Torlon® has been a critical material for many years with industries relying on its innate qualities to solve complicated challenges. How can Torlon® do the same for the aerospace industry? Consider the following:

 

1. Boeing thermal isolators – Increasing fuel efficiency by reducing aircraft weight is a constant goal for the aviation industry. In the case of the Boeing 787, Torlon® was able to help make that goal attainable. The engineers at Boeing theorized they could reduce the overall weight of the aircraft by feeding hydraulic lines through the fuel tanks rather than around them. For this to work, the hydraulic lines needed insulation that could handle being exposed and heated by harsh environments. Torlon® 4203 PAI was a perfect choice because it does not conduct heat nor electricity, which would have caused problems, as temperatures range from -40°F (-40°C) up 350 F (177°C).

 

2. Boeing bushings for blocker doors – Blocker doors allow the aircraft to slow down by creating a reverse thrust. The doors must be precise, and that task falls to the bushings in the hinge assembly. They must maintain a low friction and wear rate while surviving temperatures ranging from -40° to 500°F (260°C), and all without lubrication. Torlon® 4301 PAI provides all these needed properties.

 

3. Worldwide Aviation fastening screws – Aerospace OEMs need screws made from a material that can provide a capacity for heavy load-bearing while being optimized for production. In the case of radar systems, the screws also need to be made out of a material that won’t interfere with detection capabilities. For that reason alone, metal screws are out, as they’ll interfere with the radar’s ability to function. Torlon® 4203, on the other hand, is both RFI and EMI transparent, it doesn’t corrode, and it has a fantastic strength-to-weight ratio.

 

4. F-16 fuel and air connectors – With auxiliary tanks, the F-16 can take on the role of a strategic bomber, as its range is extended by a full 50%. At first, the fuel connectors were made from stainless steel but required additional insulation against lightning strikes, rendering metal connectors infeasible. Finding an alternative material proved difficult due to other variables; it needed to be resistant to temperatures up to 400°F (205°C), be chemically resistant to jet fuel, and handle constant vibrations. Torlon® 4203 was the answer, as it reached all those requirements while also handling pressures beyond 650 psi. This choice improved both the part performance and manufacturing costs.

 

In all of these real-world examples, Torlon® demonstrates its superiority in strength and thermal stability. The fact that it’s successfully used in critical applications is proof of the material’s reliability.

 

 

AIP, Unparalleled Results in Aerospace-grade Torlon® Machining

 

Advancements in aerospace design keep defense technology at the forefront. Material design with precision plastics is a core part of this evolution. High-performance plastics like Torlon® provide lightweight characteristics and mechanical stability even at extreme temperatures above 500°F (260°C). Aerospace contractors look for precision and consistent results in machined precision plastics.

 

As a global leader in precision performance plastics, AIP understands how one single machined part contributes to the efficacy of an entire aircraft. We have machined complex geometries with .002 mm precision. Our machinists have over 40 years of experience working with defense OEMs. From Torlon to PEEK or Vespel®, our material design vetting process aims to produce a final piece that does more than meet criteria; it accelerates the mission and contributes to your entire bottom line.

 

Talk to our machinists and engineers today about your aerospace application; we can provide you with a design and part prototype oftentimes within ten business days.

 

 

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PEEK Polymer Biocompatibility in the Operating Room or Inside the Body

Biocompatible precision polymers, such as Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) have revolutionized medical technology practices for over a decade. Medical devices and implants that come direct or indirect contact with human tissue and blood must meet strict guidelines for short and long-term use.

 

Biocompatibility in spinal and other dental implants, for example, is critical to patient health and bone fusion for long-term functionality. Medical-grade PEEK has the advantage of excellent chemical resistance and stability at high temperatures. This makes it a material choice for medical procedures inside the body or in the operating room.

 

In our latest PEEK brief, we delve into the advantage of PEEK polymer material biocompatibility.

 

The Superior Biocompatibility of PEEK for Surgical Instruments & Orthopedic Implants

 

Medical grade PEEK has gained traction as a leading medical technology for its advanced properties and unique compatibility with human tissue and fluids. It has also become a material choice for implants and instruments over other medical-grade plastics and metals. Additionally, medical OEMs will use PEEK in precision medical devices that require stability in high heat and chemical environments.

 

 

 

Characteristics of Medical-grade PEEK

PEEK fulfills the requirements for biocompatibility under FDA and ISO 10993 guidelines. Not only does it maintain continuous use up to 480°F (250°C), it’s also an attractive precision plastic for components used in the medical field for the following reasons:

 

• • Autoclave Sterilization Stability
• • Abrasion Resistance
• • Chemical Resistance
• • High Ductility
• • High Elongation
• • Hydrolysis Resistance
• • Low Outgassing

 

Grades of Medical PEEK

There are several medical-grades of PEEK, but here are some common brand names sourced from AIP’s industry partners.

 

TECATEC® CW50

TECATEC PEEK MT CW50® black plates are based on Victrex® PEEK that is reinforced with 50% vol. carbon fibers. This carbon fiber reinforcement elevates the stiffness and strength to be many times those of plates made from unreinforced PEEK or plates with short fiber reinforcement.

 

This grade of PEEK has been tested and approved for biocompatibility as per ISO 10993 for blood and tissue contact. It is autoclavable as it shows no significant loss of mechanical properties or degradation, even after many sterilization cycles. TECATEC® PEEK MT CW50 black is also suitable for gamma sterilization and is X-ray transparent. This makes it an ideal material for medical applications in multi-use conditions.

 

TECAPEEK® MT

Ensinger ‘s TECAPEEK® MT was specially developed to meet the requirements for materials used in medical technology. Applications range from the orthopedic market, with the joint reconstruction and traumatology segments, to surgical instruments, the dental market, and many more.

 

SustaPEEK MG

Röchling’s SustaPEEK MG (Medical-grade) has excellent chemical resistance, high temperature stability, and excellent resistance to steam sterilization. It is commonly used for metal replacement in surgical implant applications. It is FDA, USP Class VI compliant, & ISO 10993-5 certified.

 

Ketron PEEK

MCAM’s Ketron® PEEK is a biocompatible polymer that boasts high mechanical properties with a continuous heat resistance of up to 482°F (250°C). Its great dimensional stability, excellent chemical & hydrolysis resistance, as well as its ability to sustain steam cleaning makes it a perfect polymer choice for medical implants, and other medical tool implementations.

 

Additionally, materials undergo numerous quality tests throughout phases of production, including 100% ultrasonic testing. Lot and batch traceability is available upon request with in-depth certification documents and raw material certificates of analysis.

 

 

Your Partner in Advancing Medical Technology

 

As a premier partner in precision plastic component manufacturing, we understand the demands of the medical industry. Cutting corners is out of the question for AIP’s expertise and craftsmanship. That’s why we are here to provide engineering guidance and finesse throughout the process. From initial design consultation to material selection and prototyping, we make it our priority to machine close tolerances, produce precise geometries, and meet the highest levels of sanitation.

 

Quality, accuracy, and durability are the norm at AIP. Not only do our customers demand it, we demand it of ourselves. We include quality assurance as an integral part of our process and is addressed at every step of your project, from concept to completion.

 

Contact an AIP team member for a quote for medical grade PEEK.

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Mission Critical Polymers for Performance Rocketry

Every part of a rocket’s design is critical. If one piece fails or the performance of that piece doesn’t match the demands of the environment, then the whole rocket fails. Organizations like NASA, Boeing, Blue Origin and SpaceX approach rocket part design and selection with careful consideration.

Polymers have a unique position in the Aerospace and Defense market as they present features and capabilities that can stand the test of harsh environments and continuous use. High heat, dielectric strength, moisture resistance, insulative properties and impact strength all come into play in building the parts that make a performance rocket launch skyward.

In this insightful blog, we discuss four key aerospace polymers enabling success in the rocket industry.

 

VESPEL® by DuPont

Polyimide (PI) is an extreme-performance thermoplastic branded by DuPont Co. as VESPEL®. The material’s prime characteristics include outstanding creep resistance, high impact strength, and low wear at high PV. VESPEL® components allow for continuous operation temperatures of 500°F (260°C) with short-term excursion capabilities of 900°F (482°C). It is a well-known performance thermoplastic for aircraft parts, such as thrust washers, valve seats, seals and wear components.

VESPEL® is available in many grades to meet specific design requirements. The current available grades include SP-1 (Unfilled), SP-21 (15% Graphite), SP-22 (40% Graphite), SP-211 (15% Graphite and 10% PTFE) and SP-3 (15% Molybdenum Disulfide).

 

TORLON®

When it comes to high heat and stress, TORLON® can take it. Polyamide Imide (PAI) is an amorphous thermoplastic with the highest performing, melt-processability. It maintains strength and stiffness up to 500°F (260°C), has excellent wear resistance, and endures harsh thermal, chemical and stress conditions. With its continuous use under high heat and stress, this material is often used in the following aerospace applications:  bearing cages, high temperature electrical connectors, structural parts, valve seats, seals and wear components.

There are several TORLON® grades available for PAI, including TORLON® 4203 (electrical and high strength), TORLON® 4301 (general purpose wear), TORLON® 4XG (glass-reinforced) and TORLON® 4XCF (carbon-reinforced).

 

 

KEL-F®

KEL-F, or PCTFE (polychlorotrifluoroethylene), is a type of fluoropolymer that has a wide range of applications in the aerospace industry. It is prized for its high strength and durability, as well as its resistance to chemicals, heat, and wear. What makes KEL-F® stand out is its temperature range from -400°F to +400°F. KEL-F® In aerospace applications, KEL-F® is often used in fuel lines, hydraulic systems, and gaskets. Thanks to its unique properties, KEL-F® is an essential material for many aerospace applications.

At AIP, we machine various grades and brand name PCTFE. Branded names include the following: KEL-F® and NEOFLON®.

 

 

PTFE

PTFE, or Polytetrafluoroethylene, is a synthetic fluoropolymer of tetrafluoroethylene that has numerous applications in aerospace due to its low coefficient of friction, high temperatures and chemical resistance, and non-stick properties. PTFE was first used in the aerospace industry in the 1940s and has since been used in a variety of aerospace applications such as fuel lines, hydraulic systems, and gaskets.

At AIP, we machine various grades and brand name PTFE. Branded names include the following:  FLUOROSINT® 207, FLUOROSINT® 500, DYNEON®, SEMITRON® ESD 500HR, SEMITRON® PTFE, TEFLON®.

 

 

Polymers take flight as a new standard of aircraft excellence

As aerospace rocketry and aircraft continue to evolve with advanced technologies and sophisticated capabilities, material selection is crucial. Every piece that goes into a rocket is carefully thought and crafted for the highest level of performance. Torlon®, Vespel®, KEL-F® and PTFE are all thermoplastics enabling success in mission critical Aerospace and Defense rocketry.

 

 

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