Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of high-performance polymers, specifically PEEK (PolyEtherEtherKetone), and its new contender, PAEK (PolyAeroEtherKetone). PEEK has long reigned supreme in the 3D printing realm, but it’s time to meet its competition.
PEEK vs. PAEK
PEEK has been a go-to material for its remarkable thermal, chemical, and mechanical properties. Known for its high strength, heat resistance, and chemical resistance, it’s found applications in various industries, from automotive to aerospace. However, PAEK is here to challenge PEEK’s dominance.
The Rise of PAEK
PAEK, or PolyAeroEtherKetone, is making waves in the 3D printing community. It’s essentially a newer, more versatile version of PEEK. While PEEK has served us well, PAEK brings some impressive advantages to the table that make it a strong competitor.
What Makes PAEK Unique?
One of PAEK’s unique characteristics is its amorphous and semi-crystalline nature. When initially printed, PAEK is amorphous, lacking a crystalline structure. This allows it to be more flexible and easier to work with during the printing process. PAEK has a glass transition temperature (Tg), indicating the point at which it begins to lose its mechanical properties.
However, PAEK’s real magic happens after printing. Through a process called annealing, crystalline structures gradually form within the material, locking it into its shape. This transformation significantly enhances its properties, including heat deflection temperature and rigidity, effectively doubling its mechanical capabilities.
How to Spot the Difference
So, how can you distinguish PAEK from PEEK? The color and appearance can be deceptive. Both may appear as sterile, beige materials. However, the key to identifying PAEK lies in its post-processing. Annealed PAEK parts exhibit a distinctive dark, reflective quality that sets them apart from standard PEEK components.
This similarity led even experts to confuse PAEK with PEEK, demonstrating PAEK’s ability to match the performance of the industry standard.
Why Choose PAEK?
PAEK’s advantages over PEEK are numerous:
- Lower printing temperature, typically in the range of 360 to 390 degrees Celsius, compared to PEEK’s higher range.
- Higher compression strength, up to 80% more than PEEK.
- Increased barrier performance for carbon dioxide.
- Superior layered adhesion, making it easier to print complex, large parts.
- Significantly lower price, especially when considering cost savings due to reduced failed prints and better layered adhesion.
Whether you’re looking for accuracy, strength, or better overall printing performance, PAEK delivers. While PEEK has a history of certifications and proven use cases, PAEK’s exceptional qualities position it as a cost-effective alternative. It’s especially suitable for industrial applications, mechanical parts, gears, aerospace components, and more.
Unlocking the Potential of PAEK
PAEK is a game-changer in the 3D printing world, offering superior properties to PEEK at a lower cost. Its lightweight and resistance to extreme conditions make it a valuable material in various industries.
So, if you’re in the market for high-performance polymers and are looking for a material that offers a winning combination of attributes, consider PAEK. While it may not yet have the extensive track record of PEEK, its unique properties and lower price point make it the new kid in town worth watching. The next time you embark on a 3D printing project, remember that PAEK might be your ideal choice.
Consult the Experts
If you’re unsure about the right material for your 3D printing needs or need guidance on choosing the perfect material and machine, our team is here to help. Every project is unique, and we’re dedicated to finding the right fit for you. Feel free to reach out to us with your questions and specifications. Your satisfaction and success are our top priorities!
Thank you for watching, and have a fantastic day. We look forward to assisting you with your next 3D printing project.