Understanding the Basics: PEEK-CF30 vs. PEEK-GF30
1. What is PEEK-CF30?
PEEK-CF30 incorporates 30% carbon fibers into the matrix of high-temperature PEEK resin. The inclusion of carbon fibers alters the plastic from an insulator into a structurally rigid composite with low density and optimized wear performance. Under our high-grade CYLEXPRO line, PEEK-CF30 delivers extreme stiffness, minimal thermal expansion, and electrical conductivity, making it an exceptional replacement for metals in weight-sensitive aerospace and defense mechanisms.
Explore our inventory or custom profiles here: PEEK-CF30 Sheet & Rod.
2. What is PEEK-GF30?
PEEK-GF30 contains a 30% glass fiber formulation. This grade is specifically tailored to enhance mechanical stability, load-bearing capacities, and dimensional consistency over prolonged periods at high temperatures. Unlike carbon fiber, glass fibers maintain excellent electrical insulation properties, providing an ideal solution for structural connectors, housings, and chemical processing fixtures where electric isolation is required.
Explore our inventory or custom profiles here: PEEK-GF30 Sheet & Rod.
Technical Comparison: Key Material Metrics
To optimize performance during high-precision CNC machining, understanding the distinct quantitative properties of these two composites is vital. The table below highlights how carbon fiber reinforcement elevates performance parameters even higher than glass fiber variants.
| Property / Feature | PEEK-CF30 (Carbon Fiber) | PEEK-GF30 (Glass Fiber) |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | Highest (~210–230 MPa) | High (~150–170 MPa) |
| Flexural Modulus (Rigidity) | Extremely High (Up to 13-15 GPa) | High (~9-11 GPa) |
| Density & Weight Saving | Lower (~1.44 g/cm³) – Lighter | Higher (~1.51 g/cm³) – Heavier |
| Electrical Conductivity | Conductive / Antistatic (ESD Safe) | Excellent Electrical Insulator |
| Thermal Conductivity | High (Dissipates heat effectively) | Low (Acts as a thermal barrier) |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CLTE) | Extremely Low (Near metal performance) | Low (But higher than CF30) |
| Tool Wear During Machining | Abrasive (Requires premium tool bits) | Highly Abrasive (Causes rapid tool wear) |
Crucial Decision Drivers: Carbon vs. Glass Fiber
1. Weight vs. Ultimate Strength
PEEK-CF30 has a clear advantage when weight minimization is critical. Carbon fiber itself is less dense than glass fiber, reducing the overall weight of the part while offering nearly 35% greater tensile strength. If your engineering objective requires replacing aluminum or titanium parts in aerospace components or robotics arms, PEEK-CF30 is the unrivaled choice.
2. Electrical and Thermal Dissipation
Carbon fibers form a conductive network within the polymer matrix. Consequently, PEEK-CF30 facilitates static dissipation (ESD) and heat dissipation. In semiconductor testing matrices, IC test sockets, and electronics handling fields, preventing static accumulation is non-negotiable. Conversely, if your part acts as an electrical isolator in high-voltage equipment, PEEK-GF30 must be specified, as it preserves strict insulation integrity under thermal loads.
3. Dimensional Precision in Ultra-High Temperatures
Both grades drastically reduce the material’s Coefficient of Linear Thermal Expansion (CLTE) compared to native unfilled PEEK. However, PEEK-CF30 provides stability that matches certain metal profiles. For ultra-precision machining where parts run continuously at high operating temperatures, carbon-reinforced variants show almost zero dimensional shift.
Precision CNC Machining Considerations for Reinforced PEEK
Whether you choose PEEK-CF30 or PEEK-GF30, fabricating non-standard custom components requires specialist setups. Both materials are highly abrasive due to fiber fillings:
- Tooling Selection: Standard HSS (High-Speed Steel) tooling will dull almost instantly. Solid carbide or PCD (Polycrystalline Diamond) tipped tools are mandatory to maintain flawless surface finishes and precise micron tolerances.
- Stress Relieving: Given the fiber alignment during initial extrusion processes, post-machining annealing steps are often recommended for non-standard, intricate geometry parts to eliminate residual thermal stresses.
Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?
The ultimate choice breaks down to a straightforward rule of thumb:
- Select PEEK-CF30 if your application demands premium mechanical properties, weight reductions, ESD anti-static safety, and optimal heat dissipation.
- Select PEEK-GF30 if your component demands absolute electrical insulation, sustained mechanical strength under extreme temperatures, and a cost-effective alternative to carbon fiber formulations.
At Cylex Plastics, we specialize in supplying high-performance stock shapes and providing advanced CNC machining services for custom, non-standard industrial components. Whether you require micro-machined parts with ultra-tight tolerances using high-end MAKINO V22 or ROKU-ROKU equipment, or raw material supply, our experts ensure perfect execution.
Have technical questions regarding your specific drawings? Ready to start your custom plastic project? Contact our engineering group today at our dedicated portal: Cylex Plastics Contact Page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can PEEK-CF30 and PEEK-GF30 be used in direct contact with chemicals?
Yes, both grades retain the remarkable chemical resistance inherent to the baseline PEEK polymer matrix. They resist most acids, bases, and organic solvents. However, you must verify if your specific chemical environment impacts the structural bonding of carbon or glass fibers over long exposure periods.
Q2: How do the costs compare between PEEK-CF30 and PEEK-GF30?
PEEK-CF30 is premium-priced compared to PEEK-GF30. The production complexity of carbon fiber and its superior performance yield higher raw material expenses. For applications where electrical insulation is adequate and maximum carbon-grade stiffness isn’t required, PEEK-GF30 offers a highly cost-efficient solution.
Q3: What colors do these materials come in for easy inventory distinction?
Due to the integration of black carbon fibers, PEEK-CF30 is always deep black. PEEK-GF30 sheets and rods typically present a distinct grey-tan or custom dark-hued tone depending on the brand matrix, making visual identification straightforward on the factory floor.
Q4: Are these materials suitable for medical implant components?
While standard industrial PEEK-CF30 and GF30 sheets are perfect for medical lab instruments and structural handling components, implants require dedicated implantable-grade polymers that conform to strict ISO 10993 bio-compatibility certifications. Always consult with our technical engineers for grade verifications.
