Introduction
PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) is changing how doctors treat patients. It’s a special plastic used in medical devices and implants.
What makes it stand out? It’s strong, safe inside the body, and can handle heat and chemicals. But using PEEK in medical products isn’t simple. It takes the right tools, processes, and quality checks to keep patients safe.
Let’s take a closer look.
PEEK Works Well With the Human Body
PEEK has several traits that make it perfect for use inside the body:
- Biocompatible – This means the body doesn’t reject it
- Resistant to chemicals – It stays stable when exposed to cleaners and drugs
- Heat-resistant – It won’t break down during sterilization by steam or radiation
- Lightweight and strong – It’s lighter than metal, but still very tough
- Radiolucent – X-rays and CT scans can pass through, so doctors can monitor healing
- Low friction – It moves smoothly, which is key for joint parts
- Shock-absorbing – It handles impact well, like cartilage does
Medical-grade PEEK is also bio-inert (doesn’t react inside the body) and hydrolysis-resistant (won’t break down in water over time)
It’s Used in Many Types of Medical Devices
PEEK isn’t just used in one way. It’s found in many parts of modern medicine:
- Spine implants to help with back pain and movement
- Joint replacements like hips and knees
- Dental tools, crowns, bridges, and implants
- Surgical tools that must be cleaned and reused
- Future uses may include heart valves, nerve repair, and blood vessel grafts
Its strength, safety, and durability help doctors treat patients better.
Making Medical PEEK Parts Takes Special Equipment
To mold PEEK into complex medical parts, you need to heat it above 343°C. Most plastic machines can’t handle that. We have over 30 years of injection molding experience and are very familiar with the operation principles of injection molding machines. To meet high-temperature requirements, we can modify the machines accordingly.
Precision injection molding is the method used. Here’s how it works:
- PEEK pellets are dried, then heated (330–360°C) until they melt
- The melted plastic is injected into molds made to tight specs
- Cooling must be controlled to avoid warping or cracks
Every shape and size has to be just right. That’s why this step needs experience and accuracy.
Quality Checks Are Critical
Medical PEEK parts must be perfect. Even small flaws can be dangerous. Quality checks happen at every step:
- Only ISO-certified materials are used
- Machines are set to prevent material damage
- Biocompatibility is tested using ISO 10993 standards
- After molding and machining, the parts are checked for:
- Exact size
- Smooth surfaces
- Correct shapes
Cleanroom packaging helps avoid contamination before parts reach the hospital or clinic.
Key Takeaways
PEEK stands out because it is:
- Safe inside the body
- Strong but light
- Stable under heat and chemicals
- Easy to shape into complex forms with the right tools
But to use PEEK in medical devices, the process must be done with care. From material prep to final inspection, every step matters.
Get in touch with our engineering team right away to bring your project to life. No matter how difficult, we’ll find a way to make it happen.
