Expert Machining Services for UHMW and PEEK Plastics by Pro Machining Specialists
Expert Machining Services for UHMW and PEEK Plastics by Pro Machining Specialists
Modern manufacturing increasingly relies on advanced engineering plastics like UHMW (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) and PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) for demanding applications. This guide explores professional machining techniques for these superior polymers, their unique properties, and industrial applications.

PEEK CNC Machining
Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is an advanced engineering plastic with a range of beneficial properties. These include elasticity at high temperatures, wear resistance, biocompatibility, resistance to ultra-high vacuum, excellent chemical resistance, and suitability for CNC machining. PEEK is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic that can operate continuously at temperatures up to 260°C and exhibits high chemical resistance. However, it must be noted that some acids, such as sulfuric acid, will dissolve the material.
| Application | Advantages | Disadvantages | Lead Time | Price | Tolerances |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bearings, washers and gears, spinal implants, surgical tools | Hydrophobic, minimal outgassing in high vacuum conditions, biocompatible | High cost, biocompatible but does not readily bond to bone | Lead time for PEEK parts starts at 3 business days | High ($$$) | Machining tolerances of +/- .001” (+/- 0.025 mm) are achievable |
Processing | CNC Turning, CNC Milling, Laser Cutting, Bending, Spinning, Wire Cutting, Stamping, Electric Discharge Machining (EDM), Injection Molding | |||
Materials | Aluminum: 2000 series, 6000 series, 7075, 5052, etc. | |||
Stainless steel: SUS303, SUS304, SS316, SS316L, 17-4PH, etc. | ||||
Steel: 1214L/1215/1045/4140/SCM440/40CrMo, etc. | ||||
Brass: 260, C360, H59, H60, H62, H63, H65, H68, H70, Bronze, Copper | ||||
Titanium: Grade F1-F5 | ||||
Plastic: Acetal/POM/PA/Nylon/PC/PMMA/PVC/PU/Acrylic/ABS/PTFE/PEEK etc. | ||||
Surface Treatment | Anodized, Bead Blasted, Silk Screen, PVD Plating, Zinc/Nickel/Chrome/Titanium Plating, Brushing, Painting, Powder Coated, Passivation, Electrophoresis, Electro Polishing, Knurl, Laser/Etch/Engrave etc. | |||
Tolerance | ±0.002 ~ ±0.005mm | |||
Surface Roughness | Min Ra 0.1~3.2 | |||
4.Quick proofing, short delivery time, usually is 3-15 days
PEEK's Versatility and Applications
Processing PEEK allows for a wide range of applications that fully utilize the material's exceptional properties. Compared to other engineering plastics, PEEK has few disadvantages. A significant advantage that sets it apart is its heat resistance. PEEK can operate at high temperatures for longer periods than most other plastics.
| Tensile Strength, Yield (MPa) | Elongation at Break (%) | Hardness (Shore D) | Heat Deflection Temperature (°C) | Glass Transition Temperature (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
65-120 | 1.5-110 | 62-89 | 182-210 | 143-155 |

Conclusion: Matching Materials to Applications
The combination of UHMW's wear resistance, PEEK's high-temperature performance, and professional machining expertise enables solutions for the most demanding industrial challenges. By understanding each material's unique machining requirements and partnering with experienced manufacturers, engineers can achieve optimal performance in their plastic components.



























