Material comparison
For parts that need high temperature and impact resistance. The top of the high-performance polymers. So which one is right for your project? Compare the values, strengths and weaknesses side by side.
Engineering polycarbonate (ePC)
Polycarbonate is a durable, hard and thermally stable plastic. ePC is a 3D-printable form of engineering polycarbonate, preferred for mechanical parts, functional prototypes and industrial applications.
Polyether ether ketone
PEEK is a high-performance thermoplastic offering high mechanical strength, chemical resistance, thermal stability and fire resistance. It is preferred for complex and demanding industrial parts.
Values
| Property | PC | PEEK |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 1.12 g/cm³ | 1.29 g/cm³ |
| Tensile strength | 55 MPa | 100 MPa |
| Elongation at break | 150 % | 40 % |
| Modulus (stiffness) | 1.07 GPa | 4.2 GPa |
| Heat deflection (0.45 MPa) | 80 °C | 150 °C |
Decision
Good to know
PEEK has higher tensile strength: 100 MPa, versus 54.88 MPa for PC.
PEEK is more heat resistant: 150 °C, versus 80 °C for PC.
PC is usually easier to produce; it needs less special equipment and tuning.
In general, PC is more economical. The exact price is set in the quotation based on part size, quantity and technology.
Tell us the operating conditions; let's decide together which of the two fits, or find a better alternative.