If you are looking for a thermoplastic resin that allows for outstanding flexibility and freedom in design, Ultem is the plastic for you. Ultem properties include thermal and chemical resistance, high strength and stiffness, and dimensional stability. With characteristics similar to PEEK – but at a lower cost – Ultem can be easily machined and fabricated into superior performance parts.
Ultem Properties for Better Aircraft Interiors
A member of the PEI (polyetherimide) family of resins, Ultem is one of the most dimensionally stable thermoplastics on the market. With great processability and strong mechanical properties, Ultem can be used in a wide array of applications. Ultem is increasingly finding use in aircraft interiors, thanks to five key factors:
- Ultem offers excellent long-term heat resistance, with its mechanical and physical properties remaining stable at elevated temperatures (continuous use up to 340ºF). It is also inherently flame resistant with extremely low smoke generation. These factors are particularly crucial to aircraft interiors because, in 2013, the FAA found that 40% of fatalities in impact-survivable aircraft accidents were due to fire and smoke. Incorporating advanced plastics into interior aircraft design can increase survivability in accidents by minimizing smoke and flames inside the cabin.
- It is lightweight, offering 50% weight savings and up to 40% improved strength versus die cast aluminum. Weight reduction provides both fuel and systems cost savings, improves aircraft performance, and also reduces stress on parts thereby increasing part lifetimes.
- Ultem has high stress and cracking resistance, particularly when exposed to aircraft fluids. The average commercial aircraft undergoes 400-600 hours of flight time before getting a break for maintenance checks, so parts must be able to perform consistently under extreme conditions and resist wear.
- It has one of the highest dielectric strengths of any thermoplastic, offering stable electrical properties over a wide range of frequencies. This makes Ultem an excellent choice for insulating the electrical cables that run through aircraft cabins.
Ultem properties also make the resin perfect for 3D printing of aerospace parts. 3D printing is becoming more common in aerospace as it allows for fast aircraft replacement part production, especially for OEM parts. Unfortunately, 3D printed parts cannot hold the tight tolerances most aircraft parts require. With our precision CNC machining, we can correct plastic part defects and get your 3D-printed parts to hold the required close tolerances.
Choose Reading Plastic for High-Performance Plastic Parts
From tray table arms to footrests to galley items, we can machine and fabricate the superior aircraft parts you need. We produce parts in full compliance with Aviation Standards and are committed to excellent service and superior quality. For outstanding plastic aircraft parts, call us at 610-926-3245 or request a quote today.
