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PEI (ULTEM™) moulding: high-performance components

We injection-mould polyetherimide (PEI) components, known under the ULTEM™ brand: a high-temperature thermoplastic resin, flame-retardant and with excellent dielectric properties.

What is PEI (ULTEM™)?

PEI is an amorphous high-performance thermoplastic. It keeps its stiffness and mechanical strength at high temperatures, is flame-retardant (many grades are rated UL 94 V-0), is an excellent electrical insulator and absorbs little moisture. It is also available in a transparent amber version.

It resists oils, greases, many solvents and repeated sterilisation: this is why it is used in medical applications, electrical connectors and parts close to heat sources, often in place of metal.

We were among the first companies in Italy to mould ULTEM™: in 1997 GE Plastics Italia, now part of SABIC, gave us its “Protagonisti del futuro” (Protagonists of the future) award.

Properties of PEI

  • High thermal resistance (up to 200 °C)
  • Excellent mechanical properties
  • Good chemical resistance
  • Transparent

Indicative continuous service temperatures for the most common grades: the exact value depends on the grade and formulation and should be checked on the data sheet of the chosen material.

What is PEI (ULTEM™) used for?

  • Electrical connectors and insulators
  • Reflectors and components for high-performance LED lamps
  • Components for reusable, sterilisable medical devices
  • Railway interior parts with fire-safety requirements
  • Components for cooling circuits and fittings

How we mould PEI (ULTEM™)

PEI is moulded at very high temperatures, with dried granules and a heated mould: it requires suitable presses and moulds and careful control of every stage of the process.

PEI or another material?

The material is chosen according to the conditions of use of the component. The closest alternatives:

  • PC Polycarbonate

    Polycarbonate is transparent and impact-resistant at a lower cost, but withstands lower temperatures and fewer chemicals.

  • PA 6 / PA 66 Polyamide

    Glass-fibre reinforced polyamide is more economical when the thermal and electrical performance of PEI is not needed.

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Further reading

Do you have a component to make in PEI?

Send us your drawing or a sample: the contact form opens with the material already selected. If the material is still open, we will choose it together.

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