TECHNOLOGY NEWS - EXTRUSION
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Heat-shrinkable tubing made from PEEK can be used to protect sensitive components from extreme temperatures, pressures, and electrical interference.
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A supplier has developed heat-shrinkable tubing made from PEEK. PEEKshrink tubing from Zeus Inc. (Orangeburg, SC, USA) provides a shrink-to-fit layer of protection for sensitive wires and other parts. It can be used in medical devices, fluid-handling systems, and electronics.
The tubing offers an alternative to traditional protective coatings, such as fluoropolymers. PEEKshrink is suitable in settings where extreme heat or cold, intense pressure, chemicals, water, or dielectric interference pose a threat to wires and electrical components. PEEKshrink forms a “second skin” that is resistant to contaminants. The polymer’s purity and lubricity make it suitable for medical use.
The company has applied its PEEK-processing experience to the development of the tubing. As a result, design engineers can choose among several sizes, tolerances, and shrink ratios. “PEEK is preferred for many high-performance applications because of its impervious nature and wear resistance,” says Bob Ballard, director of R&D. “By modifying the material and extruding it in a heat-shrinkable format, it takes on a new role as a lightweight, super-tough insulation material.”
The tubing has a continuous service temperature of 400°C and a glass transition temperature 20°C higher than regular PEEK. It has a consistent shrink ratio of up to 1.2:1. The company routinely extrudes the tubing in lengths up to 1000 ft. It is also available in standard 4-ft lengths.
