Components made from high performance PEEK molded by Minnesota Rubber and Plastics handle thermal expansion forces, are suited for use in a wide range of high performance applications, and can easily replace components made from metal or other types of plastic. PEEK provides long operating life with chemical resistance and excellent retention of mechanical properties up to 570° F (300° C).
PEEK molded components from Minnesota Rubber and Plastics include thrust washers (left) and hydraulic seals (right). Both PEEK designs have improved operating life over previous designs.
PEEK Seal Rings and Thrust Washers
PEEK components replace metal components in assembles requiring high performance seals in vehicle transmissions. During operation, PEEK rings act as a rotating planetary carrier for helical shaped ring gears in transmission assemblies. Load forces in transmissions generate heat, potential wear and abrasion. With PEEK seal rings designed by Minnesota Rubber and Plastics, durability is increased significantly while maintaining required performance levels.
PEEK seal joints can be added to a seal design to minimize leaks or to facilitate required fluid “pass through” when various mechanisms are actuated in a system. Custom joint configurations molded into PEEK ring seals give designers new options to ensure optimal fluid control while facilitating assembly of components.
Thrust washer component design also provides assembly benefits by removing the locating holes of the aluminum components that required riveting. Minnesota Rubber and Plastics’ PEEK thrust washers feature self-aligning extensions at each end that press fit quickly and accurately into the transmission assembly ring gears.
In addition to costing less, requiring less assembly time and providing longer operating life, PEEK weighs 50 percent less than many metal components, an important consideration today’s product designs.
PEEK seals used in hydraulic and pneumatic applications have a proven record of success. When molded of PEEK, the seals are highly resistant to thermal degradation as well as attack by both organic and aqueous environments.
Molding PEEK is a core expertise of MR&P. The company has over 60 years of experience as a designer and manufacturer for major international OEM’s in hydraulic and pneumatic industries as well as for automotive, HVAC and medical industries.
Minnesota Rubber and Plastics
www.mnrubber.com
Filed Under: Materials • advanced