Polyetherimide (PEI) - Ultem®

Ultem is a high performance engineering plastic offering high mechanical and electrical properties as well as excellent flame and heat resistance. It is UL94 VO rated (self extinguishing) and USP Class VI compliant. Capable of withstanding repeated autoclaving cycles. Maximum continuous operating temperature is 170°C.

FEATURES 

Resistance to high temperature
Flame resistance: self-extinguishing, low oxygen index.  
Mechanical properties: high tensile stress, flexural strength, E.modulus
Good chemical resistance
Excellent electrical properties

WEAK POINT
 
The cost is higher than conventional engineering plastics. The shock resistance is not high. usuitable coolants used during machining can lead to subsequent stress cracking. 

APPLICATION

Mechanical: Used for structural probes, insulators, radomes, manifolds in pharmaceutical process equipment, clamps to connect circuit boards, sight glasses and in aircraft instrumentation.

Food contact: physiologically inert and FDA compliant.
 
Electrical: very good insulating and dielectric properties. It is irreplaceable in many applications in this field thanks to its self-extinguishing property and low smoke emission.

Chemical: good chemical and thermal properties.

OXYGEN LIMIT
The bar graph compares the oxygen limit of some of the best materials in this field. The highest value of oxigen index means that the material is difficult to ignite.