Ultem (PEI)
Ultem (PEI - Polyetherimide) is a high-performance amorphous thermoplastic with excellent strength, heat resistance, and flame retardancy. It is one of the few plastics certified for aircraft interior use (FAR 25.853) and can be repeatedly steam-sterilized.
Machinability
55/100
Tolerance
±0.02 mm
Category
Engineering Plastics
Material Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 85 MPa (12.3 ksi) |
| Yield Strength | 85 MPa (12.3 ksi) |
| Hardness | Rockwell M109 |
| Density | 1.27 g/cm³ |
| Machinability Rating | 55/100 |
| Thermal Conductivity | 0.22 W/m·K |
| Melting Point | 217 °C (Tg) |
| Tolerance | ±0.02 mm |
Common Grades
Ultem 1000Ultem 2300Ultem 1010
Advantages
- High temperature resistance (continuous 170°C)
- Inherently flame retardant
- Steam sterilizable
- Low smoke emission
- Good electrical properties
Limitations
- Expensive
- Notch-sensitive
- Limited chemical resistance to some solvents
- Amber color only
Common Applications
Electrical connectors
Aerospace structural parts
Sterilizable medical devices
Semiconductor test sockets
Aircraft interior parts
Industries Served
AerospaceMedicalSemiconductorElectronics
Available Surface Finishes
As-MachinedPolished