The first bearings recorded in history were likely made of wood or bronze, but modern engineers can choose from a variety of materials ranging from classical choices such as stainless steel to various types of polymers. One modern (and fascinating) bearing material is PEEK. In this article, we will look at five specific characteristics of PEEK that have allowed it to evolve as a popular material for bearings.
Polyetheretherketone, or PEEK as it is popularly known, is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic widely used in engineering applications. It is undoubtedly a popular choice for seals, but why? The secret lies in special properties that set it apart from other engineering plastics.