PEI (Ultem)
Polyetherimide — high-performance amorphous thermoplastic. Similar properties to PEEK at lower cost but lower impact strength and use temp. Transparent amber color. Tg 217°C, inherent flame resistance (UL94 V-0 at 0.4mm), very low smoke. Hydrolytically stable (2000+ autoclave cycles). Trade name Ultem (SABIC). Used for aerospace interior panels, medical sterilizable devices, electrical insulators, semiconductor handling, and 3D-print build plates.
International equivalents
| Flag | Standard | Country | Grade | Number | Match |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ISO | INT | PEI | — | REF | |
| 🇺🇸 | ASTM | USA | ASTM D5205 | — | 100% |
| 🇺🇸 | TRADE | USA | Ultem 1000 (SABIC) | — | 95% |
Sources: ISO 10350, ASTM D5205, SABIC TDS
Mechanical properties
Compatibility verdict
PEI (Ultem) and Ultem 1000 (SABIC): 95% composition match
Related materials
PA66 (Nylon 66)
Polyamide 66 — stiffer and more heat-resistant than PA6. Higher crystallinity gives better creep resistance and ~40°C higher melting point (260°C vs 220°C). Slightly more brittle. More moisture-sensitive at saturation than PA6. Trade names include Ultramid A (BASF), Zytel 101 (DuPont), Tecamid 66 (Ensinger). Dominant in US/UK markets. Used for automotive engine components, electrical connectors, gears, cable ties, and industrial bushings.
PC/ABS (Blend)
Polycarbonate + ABS blend — one of the most widely used industrial thermoplastic alloys. Combines PC impact strength and heat resistance with ABS processability and lower cost. Better chemical resistance than pure PC. Properties tunable by PC/ABS ratio. Trade names include Bayblend (Covestro), Cycoloy (SABIC), Pulse (Techpolymers). Used for automotive dashboards, laptop/phone housings, power tool casings, and 3D printing (FDM filament).
PE-UHMW
Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene — the highest impact-strength thermoplastic. Molecular weight 2-6 million g/mol. Self-lubricating, extremely wear-resistant (15x better than carbon steel), and chemically inert. Used for hip/knee implant bearings, conveyor guides, dock fenders, chute liners, food processing equipment, and ballistic armor (Dyneema/Spectra fiber form).
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