Overview
PEEK insulating bushings are high-performance polymer components used to electrically isolate conductors and shafts in semiconductor, medical, and aerospace equipment. PEEK (polyetheretherketone) combines outstanding dielectric strength, thermal stability to 260°C, and near-zero outgassing — properties that let it perform where ordinary plastics and even some ceramics fall short.
ORRO Manufacturing machines PEEK bushings from virgin and filled grades to tight bore and wall tolerances. We control machining parameters carefully to avoid stress cracking and to hold the dimensional precision required for press-fit and bearing-bore applications, and we can supply unfilled, glass-filled, or carbon-filled grades to match stiffness and thermal needs.
Material Properties
| Property | Virgin PEEK |
|---|---|
| Density (g/cm³) | 1.30 - 1.32 |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | 90 - 100 |
| Flexural Modulus (GPa) | 3.6 - 4.0 |
| Hardness (Rockwell M) | 99 - 105 |
| Max Continuous Temperature (°C) | 250 - 260 |
| Dielectric Strength (kV/mm) | 23 - 25 |
| Volume Resistivity (Ω·cm) | 10¹⁶ |
| Coefficient of Friction (vs. steel) | 0.30 - 0.40 |
| Water Absorption (%) | < 0.5 |
Key Advantages
- Excellent Electrical Insulation: Dielectric strength of 23 kV/mm insulates high-voltage and signal circuits.
- High-Temperature Stability: Continuous service to 260°C, well above PTFE’s mechanical limits.
- Low Outgassing: Suitable for vacuum and cleanroom environments such as semiconductor tools.
- High Mechanical Strength: Stiffness and strength far exceed most engineering plastics.
- Chemically Resistant: Withstands most acids, bases, and solvents, including steam and hot water.
- Wear Resistant: Excellent abrasion resistance for combined insulation and bearing duties.
Typical Applications
Semiconductor Processing Equipment
Insulating bushings for electrode mounts, wafer-handling fixtures, and plasma chamber components.
Electrical and Electronic Equipment
High-voltage standoffs, connector bodies, and insulating spacers in aerospace and instrumentation.
Medical and Analytical Instruments
Sterilizable insulating components for surgical devices and laboratory analyzers.
Machining Capabilities
| Parameter | Capability |
|---|---|
| Tolerance | ±0.02 mm (bore), ±0.05 mm (general) |
| Surface Finish | Ra 0.8 - 1.6 μm |
| Size Range | 3 mm to 150 mm diameter |
| Key Processes | CNC turning, boring, milling, annealing |
Application Case
Plasma chamber insulating bushing, PEEK — A semiconductor tool maker required bushings with a ±0.02 mm bore, a dielectric rating above 20 kV/mm, and minimal outgassing for a plasma etch chamber. ORRO machined virgin PEEK bushings, stress-relieved them, and held roundness within 0.01 mm, supplying 800 pieces in 15 days with dimensional and material certification.
