PEI: High-Temperature Thermoplastics for Electrical, Medical and Aerospace Applications
A technical polymer combining rigidity, stability and insulation
PEI (polyetherimide) is a high-performance amorphous thermoplastic known under the trade name ULTEM®. It offers excellent thermal resistance, mechanical rigidity and dielectric stability. Thanks to its unique properties, PEI is widely used in sectors such as aeronautics, medical, electronics and sensitive industrial equipment.
This material is appreciated for its amber transparency, dimensional stability and compatibility with demanding environments, while being more economical than PEEK.
Technical properties of polyetherimide
High thermal resistance
- Continuous operating temperature: up to 170°C
- Good resistance to temperature peaks (>200°C)
Stiffness and mechanical stability
- High modulus of elasticity (~3 GPa)
- Dimensional stability over a wide temperature range
Excellent electrical properties
- High-performance insulation up to 200°C
- Low dielectric constant and excellent arc resistance
Moderate chemical inertia
- Resistant to many chemicals, solvents, oils and disinfectants
- Compatible with hospital and industrial environments
Transparent and easy to sterilize
- Translucent amber hue
- Withstands steam, radiation and chemical sterilization
Polyetherimide applications
Aerospace
- Cabin components, connectors, lightweight supports
- Substitute for metal and other more expensive polymers
Electronics
- Thermal and electrical insulation, housings, switches, circuits
- Resistance to high temperatures and electric shock
Medical and laboratory
- Reusable instruments, trays, analytical components
- Withstands repeated sterilization cycles without deformation
Industrial equipment
- Structural parts, sprockets, guides, precision supports
- Rigidity and lightness in stressed environments
Why choose DEMGY ULTEM® PEI?
- Large stock and easy conversion
- Precision machining for standard or custom applications
- Material certificates and food/medical compliance on request
- Expert support for complex projects, prototyping and pre-production
Conclusion: PEI, a high-performance, cost-effective alternative for demanding environments
Polyetherimide is a strategic choice for engineers seeking abalance between high performance, ease of processing and controlled cost. With ULTEM® 1000, DEMGY offers you a reliable solution for insulating, structural and sterilizable parts in a wide range of industrial sectors.
