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PI Machining
High-Performance Polyimide (PI) Plastic Materials & Custom Machining Services
Premium polyimide sheets, rods, tubes, and precision CNC machined components for extreme temperature applications up to 500°C (932°F). Exceptional wear resistance, low outgassing properties, and superior chemical resistance for aerospace, semiconductor, automotive, and industrial applications. Cost-effective alternative to premium brand polyimides with faster delivery.
✓ No Minimum Order ✓ 3-5 Day Turnaround ✓ 20+ Years Experience ✓ Free Technical Support
💰 Save 30-50% on Polyimide Materials Without Compromising Quality
Our polyimide plastics deliver identical performance to premium brands at significantly lower costs. Same aromatic heterocyclic polymer chemistry, same manufacturing quality, better value for your engineering projects.
| Key Advantages | Premium Brands | BeePlastic Polyimide | Your Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material Cost | $$$$$ | $$$ (30-50% less) | Significant Savings |
| Lead Time | 2-4 weeks | 3-5 days | 75% Faster |
| Minimum Order | Often required | No minimum | Prototype Friendly |
| Technical Support | Limited | Free consultation | Expert Guidance |
| Custom Machining | Third-party required | In-house CNC | One-Stop Solution |
💡 Smart engineers choose BeePlastic for better value and faster delivery
Why Engineers Choose BeePlastic Polyimide Solutions
Facing extreme temperature challenges? Need reliable materials that won't break your budget? Our polyimide plastics solve critical engineering problems with proven performance in demanding applications worldwide.
Extreme Temperature Performance
Continuous operation up to 310°C (590°F), short-term exposure to 330°C, and melting point of 500°C (932°F). Polyimide maintains mechanical properties where PEEK, PPS, and other high-temperature plastics fail. Perfect for jet engine components, semiconductor processing, and industrial heating applications.
→ Download temperature resistance guide
Rapid Prototyping & Production
From CAD file to finished polyimide parts in 3-5 business days. Our extensive inventory and dedicated CNC capacity eliminate long lead times. Standard tolerances of ±0.03mm meet most application requirements while keeping costs competitive. Perfect for urgent projects and iterative design processes.
→ Upload your design now
Superior Mechanical Properties
Tensile strength of 90 MPa, flexural strength of 110 MPa, and excellent dimensional stability under load. Polyimide's unique molecular structure provides exceptional creep resistance and fatigue life, outperforming metals in many wear applications without lubrication.
→ View material data sheets
Chemical & Radiation Resistant
Outstanding resistance to chemicals, solvents, fuels, and radiation exposure. Low outgassing properties (TML <1%, CVCM <0.1%) make polyimide ideal for vacuum and space applications. Inherent flame retardancy (UL 94 V-0) ensures safety in critical environments.
→ Chemical compatibility chart
Understanding Polyimide (PI) Plastic Technology
What Makes Polyimide the Ultimate Engineering Plastic?
Polyimide (PI) is an advanced aromatic heterocyclic polymer featuring imide-based molecular linkages that create an exceptionally stable structure. This unique chemistry delivers unmatched thermal stability, mechanical strength, and chemical resistance that surpasses conventional engineering plastics like PEEK, PPS, and PAI in extreme environments.
Key Polyimide Performance Characteristics:
- Temperature Range: -269°C to +400°C operational capability
- Glass Transition: 360°C - highest among thermoplastics
- Dielectric Strength: 22 MV/m for electrical insulation
- Wear Resistance: Self-lubricating properties reduce friction
- Chemical Stability: Resists acids, bases, and solvents
- Radiation Tolerance: 10^9 rads for nuclear applications
Polyimide Applications Across Critical Industries
From semiconductor wafer processing to aerospace propulsion systems, polyimide components deliver unmatched reliability. Our customers report significant cost savings and performance improvements when switching to BeePlastic polyimide solutions.
✈️ Aerospace & Aviation Components
Polyimide aerospace applications demand zero failure tolerance in extreme conditions. Our PI materials excel in jet engines operating at 300°C+, spacecraft exposed to radiation, and aircraft systems requiring lightweight, high-strength components. The material's low outgassing and thermal stability make it ideal for space-qualified applications.
- Turbine engine seals, bushings, and thrust washers
- Thermal insulation blankets and heat shields
- Bearing retainers and cage assemblies
- Valve seats for fuel and hydraulic systems
- Satellite components and antenna insulators
Application Note: Polyimide thrust washers operate reliably at 260°C for 10,000+ flight hours without degradation.
Learn about aerospace machining →
💻 Semiconductor Manufacturing Equipment
Semiconductor polyimide components provide ultra-low particle generation, plasma resistance, and dimensional stability for wafer processing at 300°C+. The material's purity and thermal properties support advanced chip manufacturing processes requiring contamination-free, high-temperature operation.
- IC test sockets and burn-in fixtures
- Wafer handling clamps and centering rings
- Plasma chamber components and shields
- Chemical processing bath fixtures
- Pick-and-place nozzles and end effectors
Industry Insight: Leading semiconductor manufacturers specify polyimide for next-generation 3nm process equipment.
Precision cutting services →
⚡ Electric Vehicle & Automotive Systems
EV polyimide applications leverage the material's exceptional electrical insulation and thermal management properties. With electric motors reaching 200°C+ and battery systems requiring reliable isolation, polyimide outperforms traditional plastics in safety-critical components.
- Battery thermal barriers and cell separators
- Electric motor slot liners and wire guides
- Power inverter insulation components
- High-voltage connector housings
- Charging system thermal management parts
Market Trend: EV manufacturers increasingly specify polyimide for 800V+ systems requiring enhanced thermal performance.
Laser processing capabilities →
🏭 Industrial & Chemical Processing
Industrial polyimide components excel in aggressive chemical environments, high-pressure systems, and extreme temperature processes. Self-lubricating properties eliminate maintenance in hard-to-reach locations while resisting chemical attack that destroys metal parts.
- Chemical pump bearings, seals, and vanes
- Compressor valve plates and piston rings
- Glass and metal forming fixtures
- High-temperature conveyor components
- Welding and plasma cutting insulators
Cost Benefit: Polyimide bearings last 5x longer than PTFE alternatives in chemical pumps, reducing downtime.
Forming services →
🔬 Medical & Laboratory Equipment
Medical polyimide applications benefit from the material's biocompatibility, sterilization resistance, and precision machining capabilities. Polyimide withstands repeated autoclave cycles, gamma radiation, and chemical sterilization without degradation.
- Surgical instrument components and handles
- Laboratory centrifuge parts and rotors
- Analytical instrument fixtures and holders
- High-temperature sterilization trays
- Diagnostic equipment insulators
Compliance: Polyimide meets USP Class VI biocompatibility requirements for medical applications.
Volume production options →
⚙️ Oil & Gas Equipment
Downhole polyimide components withstand extreme pressures, temperatures, and chemical exposure in oil and gas applications. The material's stability at 300°C+ and resistance to hydrocarbons make it ideal for drilling and production equipment.
- Downhole tool components and seals
- Valve seats for high-temperature service
- Compressor rings and wear parts
- Subsea connector insulators
- Pipeline inspection tool components
Field Performance: Polyimide seals maintain integrity at 10,000 PSI and 250°C in deep well applications.
Welding & assembly →
Polyimide Stock Shapes & Custom Manufacturing Services
Comprehensive inventory of polyimide sheets, rods, tubes, and films ready for immediate shipment. Our advanced CNC machining transforms raw polyimide into precision components with 24-hour quote turnaround and competitive pricing.
Polyimide Sheets & Plates
Premium unfilled and filled polyimide sheet stock for gaskets, seals, wear plates, thermal barriers, and electrical insulation. Available in natural amber and black colors with excellent flatness and machinability.
Stock Specifications:
• Thickness: 1mm to 60mm (0.040" to 2.36")
• Sheet sizes: Up to 307mm x 307mm（12.09"×12.09"）
• Grades: Unfilled, graphite-filled, glass-filled
• Surface finish: Ground both sides
• Custom cutting available
• Thickness: 1mm to 60mm (0.040" to 2.36")
• Sheet sizes: Up to 307mm x 307mm（12.09"×12.09"）
• Grades: Unfilled, graphite-filled, glass-filled
• Surface finish: Ground both sides
• Custom cutting available
Polyimide Rods & Bar Stock
Extruded and compression-molded polyimide rods ideal for machining bearings, bushings, valve seats, piston rings, and wear components. Superior dimensional stability and concentricity for precision parts.
Available Dimensions:
• Diameter: 1mm to 60mm (1/4" to 2.36")
• Length: Up to 307mm（12.09"）
• Centerless ground options
• Filled grades for enhanced wear
• Custom sizes on request
• Diameter: 1mm to 60mm (1/4" to 2.36")
• Length: Up to 307mm（12.09"）
• Centerless ground options
• Filled grades for enhanced wear
• Custom sizes on request
Custom Polyimide Machining
Precision CNC machining of complex polyimide components from your drawings or samples. Cost-effective manufacturing with standard tolerances of ±0.03mm, suitable for most engineering applications.
🎯 Machining Capabilities:
• CNC milling & turning
• Standard tolerance: ±0.03mm
• Surface finish to 0.8 μm Ra
• No minimum order quantity
• 3-5 day standard delivery
• CNC milling & turning
• Standard tolerance: ±0.03mm
• Surface finish to 0.8 μm Ra
• No minimum order quantity
• 3-5 day standard delivery
Polyimide Technical Properties & Performance Data
Complete polyimide material specifications tested to ASTM, ISO, and DIN standards. Compare PI properties with other high-performance engineering thermoplastics.
| Property | Test Method | Unit | Polyimide (PI) | PEEK | PPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Properties | |||||
| Density | ASTM D792 | g/cm³ | 1.42 | 1.32 | 1.35 |
| Water Absorption (24hr @ 23°C) | ASTM D570 | % | 0.24 | 0.10 | 0.02 |
| Hardness | ASTM D785 | Rockwell E | E75 | M99 | R123 |
| Mechanical Properties @ 23°C | |||||
| Tensile Strength | ASTM D638 | MPa | 90 | 100 | 75 |
| Tensile Strength @ 260°C | ASTM D638 | MPa | 45 | 12 | 8 |
| Elongation at Break | ASTM D638 | % | 10 | 45 | 3 |
| Flexural Strength | ASTM D790 | MPa | 110 | 165 | 130 |
| Flexural Modulus | ASTM D790 | GPa | 3.0 | 4.0 | 3.8 |
| Compressive Strength | ASTM D695 | MPa | 150 | 125 | 110 |
| Impact Strength (notched) | ASTM D256 | J/m | 43 | 75 | 30 |
| Thermal Properties - Critical for High-Temperature Applications | |||||
| Melting Point | DSC | °C | 500 | 343 | 280 |
| Continuous Service Temperature | UL 746B | °C | 310 | 260 | 220 |
| Glass Transition Temperature | DMA | °C | 360 | 143 | 90 |
| Heat Deflection @ 1.8 MPa | ASTM D648 | °C | 330 | 152 | 104 |
| Thermal Expansion Coefficient | ASTM D696 | 10⁻⁶/K | 55 | 47 | 49 |
| Thermal Conductivity | ASTM C177 | W/m·K | 0.35 | 0.25 | 0.29 |
| Electrical Properties | |||||
| Dielectric Strength | ASTM D149 | kV/mm | 22 | 50 | 16 |
| Dielectric Constant @ 1MHz | ASTM D150 | - | 3.5 | 3.2 | 3.8 |
| Volume Resistivity | ASTM D257 | Ω·cm | 10¹⁵ | 10¹⁶ | 10¹⁶ |
| Chemical & Environmental Properties | |||||
| Chemical Resistance | - | Rating | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| UV Resistance | - | Rating | Excellent | Good | Good |
| Flammability | UL 94 | Class | V-0 | V-0 | V-0 |
| Oxygen Index | ASTM D2863 | % | 53 | 35 | 44 |
| Outgassing (TML) | ASTM E595 | % | <1.0 | 0.12 | 0.10 |
* Values represent typical properties for unfilled grades. Filled polyimide grades (graphite, glass, MoS2) offer enhanced wear resistance and modified properties for specific applications.
Your Polyimide Parts Manufacturing Process
1
Submit Design
Upload CAD files or drawings. Free design review and material recommendations within hours.
2
24hr Quote
Detailed pricing with material options, lead times, and quantity breaks within 24 hours.
3
Production
CNC machining with in-process quality checks. Standard tolerance ±0.03mm meets most requirements.
4
QC & Ship
100% inspection before shipping. Express worldwide delivery with tracking provided.
Standard Lead Time: 3-5 business days | Rush service available for urgent needs
Polyimide Material Grade Selection Guide
Choose the right polyimide grade for your application. Our technical team provides free consultation to optimize material selection.
| Grade Type | Composition | Key Properties | Typical Applications | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unfilled PI | 100% polyimide | Max chemical resistance, electrical insulation | Seals, gaskets, insulators, semiconductor parts | Highest purity, best electrical properties |
| 15% Graphite PI | PI + 15% graphite | Low friction (0.10-0.25), self-lubricating | Bearings, bushings, thrust washers, wear pads | Reduced wear, no lubrication needed |
| 40% Graphite PI | PI + 40% graphite | Lowest friction (0.08-0.20), max wear resistance | High-speed bearings, dynamic seals, pistons | Extreme wear resistance, high PV limits |
| Glass-Filled PI | PI + 15-30% glass fiber | Enhanced strength, dimensional stability | Structural parts, load-bearing components | Higher stiffness, lower thermal expansion |
| MoS2-Filled PI | PI + 15% molybdenum disulfide | Vacuum compatible, low outgassing | Space applications, vacuum equipment | Works in vacuum, radiation resistant |
Need help selecting? Our engineers provide free material consultation based on your requirements.
Request Material Selection Guide →
Complete Polyimide Fabrication Services
Full-Service Manufacturing Capabilities
⚙️ CNC Machining Services
Multi-axis milling and turning for complex polyimide components. Standard tolerance ±0.03mm with excellent surface finish. Quick turnaround on prototypes and production runs.
View CNC capabilities →🔥 Laser Processing
Precision laser cutting for intricate polyimide gaskets, insulators, and thin components. No tooling required, ideal for prototypes and custom shapes.
Laser cutting services →✂️ Cut-to-Size Options
Waterjet, saw, and shear cutting of polyimide sheets and rods. Custom sizes with same-day shipping on standard cuts. Perfect for R&D and prototyping.
Cut-to-size services →🔄 Secondary Operations
Complete finishing services including drilling, tapping, deburring, and assembly. Custom packaging and kitting for production orders.
Assembly services →Polyimide Technical FAQs
How does polyimide compare to other high-temperature plastics?
Polyimide offers the highest continuous service temperature (310°C) among engineering thermoplastics, surpassing PEEK (260°C), PPS (220°C), and PAI (275°C). The material's 500°C melting point and exceptional dimensional stability at elevated temperatures make it ideal for applications where other plastics fail. While PEEK offers better impact resistance, polyimide provides superior thermal performance and comparable chemical resistance at lower cost.
What machining tolerances are achievable with polyimide?
Our standard machining tolerance for polyimide parts is ±0.03mm, which meets requirements for most engineering applications. This practical tolerance level keeps costs competitive while ensuring proper fit and function. Polyimide machines well with sharp carbide tools and appropriate cutting parameters. Surface finishes of 0.8 μm Ra are standard, with finer finishes achievable through secondary operations.
Can polyimide be used in vacuum and space applications?
Yes, polyimide excels in vacuum and space environments due to ultra-low outgassing properties (TML <1.0%, CVCM <0.1%) meeting NASA requirements. The material maintains stability from cryogenic temperatures (-269°C) to extreme heat (+400°C), covering all space conditions. Polyimide's radiation resistance (10^9 rads) and dimensional stability make it perfect for satellite components, spacecraft insulation, and vacuum chamber fixtures.
What's the minimum order quantity for custom parts?
No minimum order required! We machine single prototype polyimide parts with the same quality standards as production runs. This allows you to test designs before committing to larger quantities. Our rapid prototyping service delivers parts in 3-5 days standard. Volume discounts apply for 10+ pieces, with significant savings at 100+ quantities. Many customers start with prototypes and scale to production as designs are validated.
How do I select the right polyimide grade?
Grade selection depends on your application requirements. Unfilled polyimide provides maximum chemical resistance and electrical insulation for seals and insulators. Graphite-filled grades (15-40%) offer self-lubricating properties for bearings and wear parts. Glass-filled polyimide increases strength and stiffness for structural components. Our engineers provide free consultation to match the optimal grade to your temperature, load, speed, and environmental requirements.
What industries commonly use polyimide components?
Polyimide serves critical applications across aerospace (engine seals, thermal barriers), semiconductor (wafer handling, test sockets), automotive (EV battery insulation, transmission parts), medical (sterilizable components), oil & gas (downhole tools, valve seats), and industrial equipment (chemical pumps, compressors). The material's unique combination of thermal stability, chemical resistance, and mechanical properties makes it irreplaceable in extreme environments.
Ready to Start Your Polyimide Project?
Join thousands of engineers who trust BeePlastic for high-performance polyimide materials and precision machining. Better prices, faster delivery, expert support - experience the difference today.
🎯 Special Offer for New Customers
First-Time Buyers: Get 10% off your first polyimide order plus free material samples for testing. We'll provide expert material selection guidance and design optimization suggestions at no charge.
✓ No payment needed for quotes
✓ Free design review included
✓ 24-hour response guaranteed
📧 Email: beeplastic@beeplastic.com | 🌐 www.beeplastic.com
Business Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM EST
Quote Response: Within 24 hours guaranteed
Standard Delivery: 3-5 business days | Rush service available
Explore Other High-Performance Engineering Plastics
Need a different material? Browse our complete range of high-temperature thermoplastics for extreme applications.
PEEK Plastic
Continuous use to 260°C
Outstanding chemical resistance
Biocompatible grades available
Learn About PEEK →
PPS Plastic
Excellent dimensional stability
Superior chemical resistance
Cost-effective performance
Learn About PPS →
PAI Plastic
Highest strength at 275°C
Excellent wear resistance
Low thermal expansion
Learn About PAI →
PEI Plastic
High strength & stiffness
Inherent flame resistance
Excellent electrical properties
Learn About PEI →
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