![]() ![]() Kepstan is available in a variety of formulations, which includes a fully amorphous grade in addition several grades which exhibit a range of crystallization speeds. Like PEEK, Kepstan PEKK (Polyetherketoneketone) is part of the PAEK (Polyaryletherketone) family of polymers. For some background on the selected materials, we have outlined each polymer and their respective materials characteristics. Each material selected has different attributes that may play a critical role in the material choice for a medical application. KetaSpire® KT-820 NT, made by Solvay Specialty Polymers, is the grade of PEEK that was used in this comparison. High Performance Polymers Properties Comparisonįor the comparison study, Spectrum selected a group of four polymers to compare to PEEK: Kepstan® PEKK 8001 by Arkema, Udel® GF-120 and Ixef® GS-1022 (both made by Solvay Specialty Polymers), and Vectra® MT1300 made by Celanese. Recognizing the need for expanded options, Spectrum experts have identified and extruded several materials that are more rigid than PEEK and conducted a study to highlight the analytical difference in their respective mechanical properties. In select applications, designers look beyond PEEK to further bridge the performance gap between that of metals and/or composites. In particular, PEEK is an appealing substitute for metal components due to its compatibility with most sterilization techniques and relatively lower cost. PEEK is often used in metal and composite replacement projects, but is also selected at times because it offers more freedom in design and fabrication compared to many other material types. This is largely because PEEK excels in applications that require high chemical resistance and heat resistance, high tensile and flexural properties, and lubricity. PEEK (polyetheretherketone) is often the preferred polymer when it comes to high performance materials for medical and other demanding market applications. Processing these polymers often involves nuances and special requirements that must be considered to achieve optimum material properties. With decades of experience in extrusion manufacturing, Spectrum understands the challenge of successfully processing high performance and high temperature polymers. So, what’s next in high performance polymers? By leveraging our material supplier relationships, Spectrum can provide recommendations to medical device designers as to which materials demonstrate the properties best suited for the design, processing, manufacturing, and sterilization requirements of a particular product. As such, it is important for contract manufacturers like Spectrum Plastics Group to engage with raw material suppliers to stay informed of new material formulations, developments, and technologies. Medical device designers utilize these new materials to create next-generation products, ideally while reducing material and production costs. Raw material suppliers are continuously challenged to advance material formulations and enhance the properties and characteristics of their existing offerings. Likewise, the utilization and understanding of Med Tech materials has advanced to include a broader range of higher performance polymers that support these technologies. In response to the demand for improved therapies and better patient outcomes, medical device technologies have continuously evolved and advanced. ![]() Extrusion Engineer – Spectrum Plastics Group ![]()
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