ULTEM is a high-performance thermoplastic polyetherimide (PEI) designed for high service, high-temperature applications like jet engines and aerospace.
It is the material of choice for high-performance parts, capable of withstanding repeated cycles in humid, extreme environments.
The ULTEM family includes ULTEM 1010 and ULTEM 9085: ULTEM 1010 is one of the strongest materials in the FDM thermoplastic family; ULTEM 9085 has a lower flexural strength, making it more ductile but still strong, If a component requires high strength and flexibility, ULTEM™ 9085 is the best choice
ULTEM is an amazing engineering material, demonstrating a high strength-to-weight ratio and a desirable FST (flame, smoke and toxicity) rating.
ULTEM features
- Easy to machine and print
- Resistant to hydrolysis
- Resistant to all common oils, greases, solvents and chemicals
- Extreme impact strength, comparable to aluminium
- High dielectric strength and excellent electrical properties
- 9,300 psi tensile strength (1010), 6,800 psi (9085)
- Heat deflection temperature over 210°C
- Class UL94 V0 flame, smoke and toxicity-rated
- Certified for medical applications (1010)
- UV resistant and weatherproof
- High structural stability, with outstanding dimensional stability during printing
ULTEM is an ultra-polymer part of the PEI thermoplastic family with comparable performance to PEEK and PEKK. It is strong, tactile and durable, with high abrasion, heat and chemical resistance, making it suited to most industrial applications.
How to print ULTEM high-performance thermoplastic
You need a 3D printer that supports high-temperature additive manufacturing to print ULTEM, like the 3DGence F421—equipped with the M360 module, the F421 prints the ULTEM family with exceptional accuracy and quality.
The 3DGence 3D printer family also includes the F350, but this model does not support ULTEM. To print ULTEM, you need the F421.
ULTEM high-performance thermoplastic applications
ULTEM can replace metal in most industrial applications that demand high-temperature resistance. It is particularly suitable for functional parts and components,
- Automotive
ULTEM’s resistance to greases, oils, lubricants and solvents make it ideal for use in combustion engine vehicles, while its high-temperature resistance and dielectric qualities make it ideal for use in electric vehicles. ULTEM can make electric vehicles lighter, replacing metal components that are more expensive to make.
- Aerospace
ULTEM is one of the only polymers approved for use in aerospace settings. It is incredibly lightweight and significantly lighter than metal parts made from aluminium, and it offers similar impact strength and performance. ULTEM is used for ducting, housings, protective casings and customised tools and components in aerospace.
- Electrical
One of the underappreciated qualities of ULTEM is its excellent electrical properties. It is ideal for electronic components because it has a high heat resistance and is one of the highest dielectric strengths of any thermoplastic. It is used for casings, housings, electrical circuit boards, switches, connectors, electronic chips and capacitors.
- Water engineering
ULTEM is hydrolysis resistant and withstands repeated autoclaving cycles when exposed to steam and temperatures up to 216°C. It is non-hygroscopic, absorbs minimal moisture and can be cleaned easily with simple washing systems and steam. It maintains 100% of its tensile strength after 2,000 cycles in a steam autoclave.
Find out more
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