Enhanced Processing, Stronger Parts, and Faster Production with LMPAEK™ Polymers

What is LMPAEK™ and how does it differ from standard PEEK?

LMPAEK™ (Low Melt Polyaryletherketone) is an advanced polymer technology that offers similar high-performance characteristics to PEEK but with a significantly lower melting temperature (305°C vs 343°C). This reduction in processing temperature enables faster cycle times, reduced energy consumption, and expanded manufacturing possibilities whilst maintaining the exceptional chemical resistance, mechanical properties, and thermal stability that PAEK polymers are renowned for.

What are the key processing advantages of LMPAEK™ polymers?

LMPAEK™ polymers can be processed at temperatures 35-40°C lower than standard PEEK, enabling compatibility with a wider range of manufacturing equipment and reducing thermal stress on processing machinery. The material offers excellent flow characteristics for complex part geometries, slower crystallisation rates for reduced cycle times, and compatibility with automated manufacturing processes including AFP (Automated Fibre Placement). Additionally, it can be co-processed with temperature-sensitive materials that would degrade at standard PEEK processing temperatures.

Which industries and applications benefit most from LMPAEK™ technology?

LMPAEK™ polymers excel in demanding applications across aerospace (brackets, clips, and structural components), automotive (under-bonnet components and EV applications), energy (oil & gas downhole tools meeting Shell MESC specifications), semiconductor (wafer handling and chemical processing equipment), and marine applications (including innovative hydrofoil projects). The material is particularly valuable where high-performance properties must be combined with efficient, high-volume manufacturing capabilities.

Can LMPAEK™ be processed using standard thermoplastic manufacturing equipment?

Yes but with precautions, LMPAEK™ has been primally invented to be used for composites applications (hence filled with carbon or glass fiber), so it is highly compatible with Automatic Fiber Placement, compression molding, stamp forming, and hybrid overmoulding processes. It can also be processed using conventional thermoplastic manufacturing equipment including injection moulding (with some precautions since not ideal for that process), extrusion, and compression moulding systems. The lower processing temperature extends equipment compatibility, allowing use of machinery that might not withstand standard PEEK processing temperatures. The material is also compatible with advanced manufacturing techniques including 3D printing, and micropellet processing systems.

How does LMPAEK™ perform in harsh environments compared to other high-performance polymers?

LMPAEK™ maintains exceptional performance in extreme conditions, offering continuous use temperatures up to 250°C, outstanding chemical resistance to acids, bases, and hydrocarbons, and excellent mechanical property retention under load at elevated temperatures. The material demonstrates superior fatigue resistance, low moisture absorption, and inherent flame retardancy (V-0 rating). Unlike many lower-performance alternatives, LMPAEK™ combines these properties with long-term dimensional stability and resistance to environmental stress cracking, making it ideal for critical applications where failure is not an option.