As the “performance champion” among specialty engineering plastics, PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) has seen widespread adoption across high-end sectors including aerospace, medical devices, and semiconductors. Yet its inherent traits—high melting point, low thermal conductivity, and susceptibility to deformation—have long made PEEK processing a persistent pain point for manufacturers. Frequent issues like cracking, dimensional deviations, and surface irregularities not only hamper production efficiency but also limit product quality advancements. Today, we unpack three core solutions to effortlessly overcome PEEK processing hurdles and unlock new possibilities in high-end manufacturing!
Solution 1: Precision Preprocessing – Eliminate Defects at the Source
PEEK materials often accumulate residual stress during extrusion and molding. Direct processing without proper preparation frequently leads to cracking, warping, and other defects, making targeted preprocessing the critical first step.
We implement a customized annealing process: based on PEEK’s thickness and type, we precisely set a heating range of 200-220℃, maintain constant temperature for 30 minutes per 10mm thickness, then shut down the oven for natural cooling to room temperature—high-temperature removal is strictly prohibited. This process fully releases internal stress, stabilizes the molecular structure, lays a solid foundation for subsequent processing, and drastically reduces cracking risks. Additionally, we perform thorough material cleaning before processing to remove surface oil and impurities, preventing adverse impacts on cutting precision and surface quality.
Solution 2: Refined Process Parameters – Conquer Core Processing Difficulties
PEEK’s low thermal conductivity causes easy accumulation of cutting heat, leading to material softening and tool adhesion that directly compromise dimensional accuracy and processing efficiency. Refined regulation of process parameters is the key to overcoming this core challenge.
For tool selection, we adopt a precise matching strategy: fine-grain cemented carbide end mills for unfilled PEEK, and polycrystalline diamond (PCD) tools for glass fiber/carbon fiber reinforced PEEK, effectively enhancing cutting smoothness and extending tool life. Regarding cutting parameters, we employ a “high rotation speed + reasonable feed rate” scheme—the spindle speed can reach up to 6000rpm, shortening tool-workpiece contact time and minimizing heat buildup. For special structures such as thin-walled parts and deep-hole components, we customize low-feed, step-by-step processing plans. Combined with rigid fixtures and high-pressure cooling systems, we achieve precise control of thermal deformation, stabilizing dimensional tolerances within ±0.005mm.
Cooling solutions are also tailored to specific needs: high-pressure precision cooling systems for industrial-grade products, delivering coolant precisely to the cutting area; clean compressed air or deionized water for medical and semiconductor-grade products, ensuring processing stability while meeting the stringent requirements of specialized fields.
Solution 3: Full-Process Quality Control – Uphold High-End Standards
PEEK products are primarily used in high-end scenarios with near-stringent quality demands, making full-process quality control the final line of defense for upholding standards.
During processing, we integrate real-time monitoring systems to dynamically track and adjust parameters such as cutting temperature, rotation speed, and feed rate, ensuring precise control of every link. In the final inspection phase, we utilize high-precision equipment including coordinate measuring machines and roughness testers for comprehensive dimensional and surface quality assessments, achieving stable surface roughness of Ra≤0.2μm. Furthermore, we offer personalized post-processing services based on customer needs, including polishing, sandblasting, and cleanliness treatment, to further enhance product performance and appearance, perfectly adapting to application requirements across diverse fields.
PEEK processing challenges are never insurmountable—they merely require targeted solutions. Mastering these three proven methods enables effortless resolution of industry pain points and full utilization of PEEK’s exceptional performance. If you’re struggling with PEEK processing difficulties, partner with us! Our professional expertise and mature solutions will help your products seize opportunities in the high-end manufacturing market.
