High-performance polymers such as PAI/Torlon® can be used over an extremely wide temperature range. These ranges are from the cryogenic (below -150 °C) to a temperature range of over 260 °C.
Due to extremely high glass transition temperature of over 280 °C, the mechanical properties are maintained over the entire temperature range.
High-performance polymers have exceptionally high chemical resistance. Even under high temperatures, these materials are resistant to most chemicals or fluids used in the automotive or aerospace industries.
High-performance polymers behave more like metals, even under extreme conditions. For example, modification with fibers can achieve thermal expansion in the order of magnitude of steel. Modifications with slip-optimizing additives further increase the already high-abrasion resistance.
These materials exhibit high creep resistance. This means that cold flow of the material does not occur, even under high loads.
Despite their enormous strength, the materials also have high impact strength.
Even under very high temperatures (up to >260 °C for PAI/Torlon®), the mechanical properties are on a par with standard materials such as PC or PA at room temperature.
Many high-performance materials can also be used as electrical insulators. Due to their high temperature resistance – even over the long term – they are ideal for use in electrical or electronic components.
Carbon fiber modification achieves a certain conductivity, so that these materials can also be used for shielding electromagnetic interference.
In addition, high-performance polymers are also characterized by low flammability or material fatigue.
In general, materials from this group should be used for long lasting or permanent applications above 150 °C.
In some data sheets, the heat deflection temperature specified give the impression that this material can also be used at a specified temperature. However, a closer look at the test methods reveals that certain materials can only be subjected to slight stresses at these high temperatures.
We’ll be happy to assist you in selecting the appropriate material for your particular area of application.