- Dr.-Ing. Bastian Gaedike
- 11 hours ago
- 2 min read
Introduction
In the world of high-performance plastics , PEEK (polyetheretherketone) has established itself as one of the most versatile and efficient materials. Particularly in additive manufacturing, i.e., industrial 3D printing, PEEK opens up numerous possibilities for companies in mechanical engineering, chemicals, medical technology, and many other sectors. In this article, we will show you what distinguishes PEEK, what properties make it so special, and in which applications 3D printing of PEEK components offers decisive advantages.
What is PEEK?
PEEK is a thermoplastic, semi-crystalline, high-performance polymer belonging to the polyaryletherketone (PAEK) family. Developed in the late 1970s, it is distinguished by its excellent combination of mechanical, chemical, and thermal properties. Due to its versatility, PEEK is now used in the most demanding industrial sectors.
Key properties of PEEK
1. High temperature resistance
PEEK can be used continuously at temperatures up to 250 °C and retains its mechanical stability even under short-term loads up to 300 °C.
2. Excellent chemical resistance
PEEK resists aggressive chemicals such as acids, bases and organic solvents – a clear advantage in the chemical and process industries.
3. High mechanical strength
With a tensile strength of up to 100 MPa and high stiffness, PEEK remains dimensionally stable even under load.
4. Low friction & wear resistance
PEEK exhibits excellent tribological properties, making it ideal for bearings, guides and sliding components.
5. Biocompatibility & Sterilizability
PEEK is biocompatible and sterilizable, which is why it is also used in medical technology (e.g. implants, surgical instruments).
6. Electrical insulation & flame retardancy
Thanks to its electrical insulation properties and inherent flame retardancy (UL 94 V-0), PEEK is also in demand in the electronics industry.
PEEK in 3D printing: Opportunities & Challenges
With the advent of specialized 3D printers for high-temperature materials, PEEK has established itself as a key material in industrial 3D printing. In particular, the Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) process is used for processing PEEK.
Advantages of PEEK in 3D printing
Design freedom : Complex geometries and functional components can be realized.
Rapid availability : Components can be produced within a few days.
Cost efficiency for small series & prototypes : No expensive tools required.
Individualization : Components can be adapted to specific requirements.
challenges
High printing temperatures : Extruder up to 400 °C, heated print bed & closed build chamber required.
Anisotropy : Mechanical properties can be direction-dependent.
Material costs : PEEK filament is more expensive than standard plastics.
Typical applications of 3D-printed PEEK
Mechanical engineering : Functional components, bearings, gears, guide elements
Chemical industry : Chemical-resistant seals, pipes, pump parts
Medical technology : Prototypes for implants, surgical instruments, cleanroom components
Aerospace & Automotive : Lightweight components, structural elements
Electronics industry : insulators, housings, connectors
Conclusion
PEEK uniquely combines temperature resistance, chemical resistance, strength, and processability – properties that make it the ideal material for industrial 3D printing. With modern manufacturing facilities like those at Malping GmbH, companies can benefit from customized PEEK components – quickly, economically, and reliably.
