What is PEKK?
PEKK (Polyether Ketone Ketone) is a member of the PAEK (Polyaryl Ether Ketone) family, known for its ultra-tough, high-temperature resistance and exceptional durability. Unlike PEEK, which has one ketone group per repeating unit, PEKK has two, affecting its crystallization and thermal behavior.
Types of PEKK: Amorphous vs. Semi-Crystalline
PEKK comes in different formulations, primarily amorphous and semi-crystalline blends. Thermax PEKK-A from 3DXTech is an amorphous variant, making it easier to print with reduced warping, superior inter-layer adhesion, and excellent thermal stability.
Key Features & Benefits
- High Strength: PEKK parts can withstand significant stress without deformation.
- Excellent Heat Resistance: With a glass transition temperature of 160°C and melting point of 305°C, it excels in high-heat environments.
- Superior Chemical Resistance: Resistant to acids, bases, oils, and hydrocarbons, making it ideal for industrial applications.
- Flame Retardant: UL94 V-0 rated, ensuring safety in aerospace and automotive applications.
- Low Creep & Fatigue: Ideal for parts experiencing cyclic loading and long-term stress.
Printing Requirements
Printing PEKK requires specialized conditions:
- Nozzle Temperature: 350°C+
- Chamber Temperature: 90-100°C
- Bed Temperature: 140-160°C
- Full Enclosure: Required for optimal print quality
Testing & Performance
PEKK exhibits outstanding mechanical properties under real-world testing. In tensile strength and bending tests, it shows remarkable elongation before breaking. Burn tests confirm its self-extinguishing nature, crucial for fire safety applications.
Applications
- Aerospace components
- Automotive under-the-hood parts
- High-temperature tooling
- Industrial chemical-resistant parts
Final Thoughts
PEKK is a game-changer in high-performance 3D printing. With its superior strength, heat resistance, and printability, it is an excellent alternative to PEEK. If your project demands durability and resistance to extreme conditions, PEKK is the way to go.