Product Overview
PEEK (Polyetheretherketone) bearings are sliding/rolling bearing components manufactured from semi-crystalline thermoplastic PEEK via precision injection molding or machining. Thanks to outstanding high-temperature resistance, chemical corrosion resistance, and self-lubricating properties, PEEK bearings have progressively replaced traditional metal and conventional engineering plastic bearings in high-end sectors such as aerospace, semiconductor manufacturing, medical devices, and food processing.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Continuous Service Temperature | -60°C to 250°C |
| Short-term Peak Temperature | 300°C |
| Tensile Strength | 90–100 MPa |
| Flexural Modulus | 3.6–4.1 GPa |
| Friction Coefficient (Dry) | 0.30–0.38 |
| Friction Coefficient (PTFE-filled) | 0.12–0.20 |
| Density | 1.30–1.32 g/cm³ |
| Rockwell Hardness (R Scale) | 120–126 |
| Chemical Resistance | Resists most solvents; exceptions: conc. H₂SO₄/HNO₃ |
Application Scenarios
- Semiconductor Equipment: Wafer transfer systems, CMP polisher rotary components — eliminates metal particle contamination, meets Class 10 cleanroom requirements.
- Aerospace: Flight control system actuators, engine auxiliary components — over 50% weight reduction, resistant to aviation hydraulic fluids.
- Medical Devices: MRI-compatible bearings, surgical robot joints — biocompatible per ISO 10993, withstands repeated autoclave sterilization.
- Food & Pharma: Conveyor guide rollers, filling valve spools — FDA/EFSA food-contact compliant, no grease migration risk.
- Chemical Pumps & Valves: Magnetic pump isolation sleeve bearings, agitator shaft sleeves — long-term resistance to acidic and alkaline media.
Selection Guidelines
1. Virgin PEEK vs. Filled Grades: Virgin PEEK suits insulation and ultra-clean applications; PTFE/graphite-filled grades reduce friction by 40–60% for high-PV sliding bearings; carbon-fiber-reinforced grades significantly boost stiffness and dimensional stability for precision-fit scenarios.
2. Wall Thickness Design: Injection-molded parts should have ≥1.5mm uniform wall thickness to avoid sink marks; machined parts allow thinner walls at higher cost.
3. Clearance Allowance: PEEK CTE is approximately 4.7×10⁻⁵/°C (virgin). Design clearances should allow 0.3–0.5% radial expansion, especially critical in high-temperature service.
4. Cost Considerations: PEEK bearings cost 8–15× more than POM/PA alternatives, yet total lifecycle cost often undercuts metal solutions requiring frequent lubrication and replacement.
Pros & Cons Comparison
| Dimension | Advantage | Limitation |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature Resistance | 250°C continuous, far exceeds POM/PA | Below PI (310°C) and ceramics |
| Chemical Resistance | Resists most organic/inorganic media | Concentrated strong acids and halogens require validation |
| Self-Lubrication | Filled grades run entirely lube-free | Virgin grade wear rate is high under dry friction |
| Weight | Density only 1/6 of steel | Load capacity below metal |
| Cleanliness | Zero particle shedding risk | — |
| Cost | Competitive lifecycle cost | High initial purchase price |
Review Conclusion
PEEK bearings represent a classic “performance premium” product — when operating conditions demand any two or more of high temperature, corrosion resistance, lube-free operation, and ultra-clean performance, PEEK is virtually the only engineering plastic bearing solution. For standard low-temperature, low-load scenarios, POM or PA alternatives offer better cost-effectiveness. Engineers should prioritize evaluating PV values, media compatibility, and full-lifecycle costs before committing to a PEEK solution.
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