4.5-Axis CNC Machining for PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone)
4.5-axis PEEK machining is used for complex aerospace and medical components where the material's high temperature resistance and biocompatibility are combined with sophisticated geometries.
Recommended Machining Parameters
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Achievable Tolerances | ±0.02 mm |
| Surface Finish | Ra 0.8-3.2 μm |
| Cutting Speed | 100-250 m/min |
| Feed Rate | 0.05-0.15 mm/tooth |
| Tooling Recommendations | Uncoated carbide with polished flutes. O-flute end mills. Sharp ball nose for contours. |
Expert Machining Tips
1
Air cooling only — no oil contamination
2
Light finishing passes for dimensional accuracy
3
Control ambient temperature for best tolerances
4
Consider annealing between roughing and finishing
Common Parts Made
Spinal cage implant profiles
Semiconductor wafer carriers
Aerospace bearing housings
Complex electrical insulators
Machining Challenges
- Very expensive material — mistakes are costly
- Thermal expansion can affect accuracy
- Dust extraction required