PEEK CNC Machining

PEEK (Polyetheretherketone) is the king of engineering plastics. With a continuous service temperature of 260°C and short-term up to 300°C, PEEK is the only plastic that can replace metals like aluminum or titanium in many applications, at a fraction of the weight.

PEEK is chemically resistant to almost all aggressive media, biocompatible (implantable), self-extinguishing, and radiation-resistant. This unique combination of properties makes PEEK the preferred material for extreme environments.

PEEK is expensive (raw material price €80-150/kg), mistakes are costly:

• Cutting speed: 100-300 m/min, moderate
• Tools: Sharp, polished solid carbide end mills. For CF30: diamond coating needed (carbon fiber is abrasive)
• Coolant: Compressed air preferred. PEEK does not absorb water, but emulsion residues can be problematic (clean surface important)
• Feed: Sufficiently high to avoid heat buildup, too low a feed rate melts the surface
• Clamping: Clamp evenly, PEEK is sensitive to point loads

Golden rule: PEEK stock is expensive, always clarify procurement before machining. Lead times of 2-4 weeks for special formats are common.

• Medical Technology, Spinal cages, trauma plates, surgical instruments (biocompatible)
• Aerospace, Brackets, insulators, bearings (lightweight, high-temperature resistant)
• Semiconductor, Wafer handling, process chamber parts (chemically inert, cleanroom compatible)
• Oil & Gas, Seals, valve seats (up to 260°C, chemical resistant)
• Food, Baking molds, process components (FDA, autoclavable)