Exploring High-Performance Polymer SLS Materials: PEKK 100 and HT-23

19 September, 2024

Dedicated to the advancement of selective laser sintering (SLS) polymer material development, ALM is here to help you match the right material to the right applications. Application performance begins with the material it is comprised of, leaning on the polymer’s properties to perform the functionalities of the end-use application.

With over 30 materials in the ALM portfolio and beyond, selecting the right material for your project can seem daunting. To begin understanding the material options available, here are two materials that are currently trending in the polymer SLS space: PEKK 100 and HT-23. Both of these high-performance polymers are paving the way for innovations in aerospace, automotive, and industrial applications. Let’s dive into the unique properties and advantages of each material.

PEKK 100: A Versatile Powerhouse

PEKK 100 is a remarkable material that serves as an effective substitute for injection-molded glass fiber-filled Polyamide 6 (PA 6 GF). Here are its standout benefits:

High Impact and Tensile Strength: PEKK 100 boasts impressive mechanical properties, with a tensile modulus of 4100 MPa and tensile strength of 86 MPa. This makes it suitable for demanding applications where strength is crucial.
Chemical and Oil Resistance: This material excels in environments exposed to chemicals and oils, maintaining performance even at elevated temperatures; ideal for automotive and industrial components.
Thermal Stability: With a heat deflection temperature of 249°C (at 0.45 MPa), PEKK 100 performs exceptionally well under thermal stress, making it perfect for high-temperature applications.
Electrical Insulation: It features excellent insulation properties and high dielectric strength, making it suitable for electronic and electrical applications. Its halogen-free flame retardancy (UL94-V0) adds an extra layer of safety.
Enhanced Toughness: PEKK 100 offers a high elongation at break (2.40% in the XY plane) and improved impact strength, ensuring durability without sacrificing flexibility.

HT-23: The Carbon Fiber Champion

HT-23 is a high-performance polymer based on PEKK resin, reinforced with 23% carbon fiber. This material is designed for superior thermal and mechanical properties:

Isotropic Properties: HT-23 delivers consistent performance in all directions (XY & Z), making it ideal for complex geometries that require uniform strength.
Chemical Resistance and Flame Retardance: Like PEKK 100, HT-23 is chemically resistant and inherently flame retardant, making it suitable for aerospace and mobility applications.
High Thermal Stability: With a heat deflection temperature of 275°C (at 0.45 MPa), HT-23 excels in high-temperature environments, ensuring reliability in critical applications.
Mechanical Properties: Although it has a lower tensile strength (71 MPa) compared to PEKK 100, HT-23’s tensile modulus of 6500 MPa makes it an excellent choice for applications requiring superior stiffness and thermal performance.

Example Applications

Both materials cater to a variety of industries:

PEKK 100

Automotive: Ideal for small-series production where injection-molded glass-fiber-filled PA 6 is commonly used.

Electrical and Electronics: Thanks to its insulation properties and flame retardancy, PEKK 100 is perfect for E&E applications.

Aerospace: Its high thermal and mechanical properties make it suitable for lightweight, high-strength components.

HT-23

Aerospace and Mobility: With its excellent thermal properties and isotropic performance, HT-23 is perfect for critical applications in these fields.
Industrial Applications: Its abrasion resistance and flame retardancy make it appealing for a range of demanding environments.

PEKK 100 and HT-23 each offer unique benefits that cater to specific industry needs. As additive manufacturing continues to grow, these high-performance polymers will play a crucial role in developing innovative solutions across various sectors. By leveraging their advanced properties, manufacturers can create parts that not only meet but exceed the demands of modern applications.

Chat with an ALM team member today to learn more about the versatile and customized polymer materials available for your next 3D printed application.