PEEK and PEI (often sold as ULTEM) are high-performance plastics used in aircraft, cars, and industrial equipment. They keep their strength at temperatures that would melt most plastics, resist harsh chemicals, and are naturally flame resistant. Only shops with industrial printers can print them.
What High-performance is good at
- Extreme heat resistance: PEI works at around 170–200 °C (340–390 °F), and PEEK even higher.
- Chemical resistance: Stands up to fuels, oils, and many harsh chemicals.
- Flame resistant: Meets strict fire standards used in aircraft and transit.
- Very strong: Can replace some metal parts at a fraction of the weight.
Where it falls short
- Very expensive: Both the material and the machines cost far more than standard printing.
- Few shops: Requires industrial printers with heated chambers.
- Certification: For regulated uses (aerospace, medical), ask the shop about certified material and documentation.
Is High-performance right for my project?
It's usually a good fit if your item:
- must handle extreme heat or chemicals
- needs flame resistance
- is replacing a metal part to save weight
For most tough parts, polycarbonate or nylon are more affordable.
Common questions
Is ULTEM the same as PEI? ULTEM is a well-known brand of PEI. Other makers sell PEI under other names.
Why is PEEK so expensive? The raw material is costly, and it needs industrial printers that run at very high temperatures.
Find High-performance near you
Ready to get something made? Find shops that offer High-performance near you, or upload your file for a quote. Not sure which material to choose? Choose by what you're making or ask a local shop.