HIGH-PERFORMANCE MATERIAL

Ultem™ (PEI)

When performance is non-negotiable. Ultem™ is an amorphous thermoplastic that offers outstanding strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance for the most challenging environments.

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A precision housing for a robotic gear reducer, an application demanding high-performance plastics like Ultem

A Premier High-Temperature Plastic

Polyetherimide (PEI), most commonly known by its trade name Ultem™, is a high-performance polymer that offers a unique combination of valuable properties, often rivaling those of metals.

Extreme Heat Resistance

Ultem™ has a very high continuous service temperature and a glass transition temperature exceeding 215°C (419°F). It retains its strength and stiffness even at elevated temperatures.

High Strength and Stiffness

With high tensile strength and flexural modulus, Ultem™ provides excellent stability under load, making it a viable lightweight alternative to metals like aluminum in many applications.

Broad Chemical Resistance

It is resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including automotive fluids, halogenated hydrocarbons, and aqueous solutions. It is also inherently flame retardant.

Machining Ultem™

Ultem™ is typically processed via CNC machining from rod or sheet stock. Due to its high strength and abrasive nature (especially glass-filled grades), it requires careful machining practices with sharp, durable tooling. We have extensive experience in machining Ultem™ to produce high-precision components that meet the tight tolerances required by the aerospace and medical industries.

Ideal Applications

Aerospace: Interior cabin components, electrical connectors, and jet engine components due to its flame retardant properties (FST rated).
Medical: Reusable surgical instruments, sterilization trays, and medical device components that must withstand repeated autoclave cycles.
Automotive: Under-the-hood components like sensors and thermostat housings that are exposed to high temperatures and automotive fluids.

A complex part for an aerospace application, similar to those made from Ultem

Ultem™ (PEI) FAQ

What is the difference between unfilled and glass-filled Ultem™?

Unfilled Ultem™ (like Ultem™ 1000) is the standard grade. Glass-filled grades (like Ultem™ 2300) contain glass fibers that significantly increase the material's stiffness, dimensional stability, and heat resistance, but also make it more abrasive and challenging to machine.

What color is Ultem™?

The natural, unfilled grade of Ultem™ has a distinctive translucent amber color. It is not optically clear like polycarbonate. Glass-filled grades are typically opaque and tan or greenish in color.

Is Ultem™ suitable for 3D printing?

Yes, Ultem™ is available as a filament for high-temperature FDM/FFF 3D printing. This process is used to create strong, lightweight, and heat-resistant prototypes and end-use parts, particularly in the aerospace industry for creating custom ducting and interior components.