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PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) is a favored material in industries such as medical, aerospace, and electronics due to its exceptional properties, including chemical resistance, strength, and biocompatibility. However, machining PEEK comes with challenges like excessive heat, surface finish imperfections, and rapid tool wear. Fusion Coolant Systems' Pure-Cut® technology offers solutions that address these issues while enhancing the overall machining process.
In this blog, we’ll explore the science-backed benefits of Pure-Cut® in PEEK machining and how it transforms manufacturing outcomes.
Challenge 1: Slow Machining Speeds
PEEK’s thermal sensitivity requires careful temperature management to prevent deformation, leading to slower machining speeds with traditional methods. Excessive heat can compromise the material’s dimensional stability and result in inconsistent quality.
The Pure-Cut® Solution:
Using scCO₂ for cooling, Pure-Cut® technology maintains an optimal temperature throughout the cutting process. This innovative system prevents thermal expansion, enabling manufacturers to increase machining speeds without sacrificing quality. By optimizing chip formation and heat dissipation, scCO₂ technology allows for faster, more efficient production cycles.
Challenge 2: Poor Surface Finish
Achieving a high-quality surface finish is critical for PEEK components, especially in medical applications where precision is paramount. Traditional coolants often fail to reduce surface roughness adequately, resulting in components requiring additional finishing processes.
The Pure-Cut® Solution:
Pure-Cut® ensures superior surface finishes by leveraging the properties of scCO₂ to cool and lubricate during machining. A 2020 study titled “CO2-assisted machining of biocompatible polymer materials,” showed that sCO₂ minimizes material transfer during cutting, reducing burrs and improving surface quality. This approach minimizes thermal damage and induces a more brittle state in the material, facilitating a cleaner, smoother cut. Independent studies have shown that scCO₂ outperforms other cooling methods, achieving best-in-class surface roughness at optimal feed rates and cutting speeds.
Challenge 3: Downstream Deburring
Burr formation during PEEK machining often leads to time-consuming secondary processes like manual deburring or additional machining steps. This adds to production costs and delays project timelines.
The Pure-Cut® Solution:
Pure-Cut® technology significantly reduces burr formation by minimizing material transfer during cutting. This clean machining process not only saves time but also eliminates the risk of material adhesion to cutting tools, further streamlining production.
Additional Benefits of Pure-Cut® for PEEK Machining
Why Pure-Cut® is the Future of PEEK Machining
Fusion Coolant Systems’ Pure-Cut® technology isn’t just a cooling solution; it’s a transformative innovation. By combining precise cooling, improved lubrication, and sustainability, Pure-Cut® solves PEEK machining’s toughest challenges while delivering measurable performance benefits:
Transform Your PEEK Machining Process Today
Fusion Coolant Systems’ Pure-Cut® is redefining the way manufacturers approach challenging materials like PEEK. Whether you’re looking to improve dimensional accuracy, minimize burr formation, or enhance productivity, Pure-Cut® offers the solutions you need.
Ready to elevate your manufacturing outcomes? Contact Fusion Coolant Systems today to learn how Pure-Cut® can revolutionize your machining processes.
Rob Sarkisian
Chief Revenue Officer
Fusion Coolant Systems
rsarkisian@fusioncoolant.com