The high-temperature amorphous polymer that bridges the gap between engineering plastics (PEEK, nylon) and aerospace thermoplastics — Ultem offers 170 °C continuous service, inherent flame resistance, and optical transparency in a dimensionally stable amber material. Widely specified in aircraft interiors (FAR 25.853 compliant) and medical devices.
170 °C continuous with 105 MPa tensile strength — no other amorphous thermoplastic matches this combination.
UL 94 V-0 without additives; passes FAR 25.853 FST requirements for aircraft cabin parts.
Withstands 1000+ steam autoclave cycles (138 °C) — medical instrument handles, trays, and sterilization cases.
| Element | Content |
|---|---|
| Polyetherimide | 100% |
| Common filled grades | Ultem 2300 (30% GF), 2400 (40% GF) |
Composition per ASTM D5205. Specific mill test reports (MTR) available on request for production orders.
Avoid solvent exposure (especially chlorinated) in machined parts — cracks initiate at residual stress sites. Anneal at 150 °C for 4 hours after machining for critical parts.
Ultem melts/gums at high feed rates. Use polished-flute carbide, positive rake, feed rates 0.05–0.15 mm/rev.
Ultem costs ~30–50% of PEEK but offers only 170 °C vs PEEK's 250 °C. For most aerospace cabin parts, Ultem is the cost-correct choice.
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