PPS: High-performance plastic for demanding environments
We have a wide range of engineering plastics, and one of the most interesting is PPS. This plastic stands out for its high chemical resistance, ability to withstand high temperatures and its dimensional stability. Let’s take a closer look at what makes PPS so special and where it is used.
Exceptional chemical resistance
One of the most important properties of PPS is its resistance to chemicals. It can withstand most chemical substances, including both acids and bases, as well as various solvents. This makes it suitable for use in environments where the material is exposed to strong chemicals, for example in the chemical industry.
PPS has almost universal chemical resistance. It withstands strong acids, such as sulphuric acid and nitric acid, as well as bases such as sodium hydroxide. Furthermore, it is unaffected by solvents such as acetone and dichloromethane. PPS is therefore a good choice for applications in chemical manufacturing and purification.
High temperature resistance
In addition to its chemical resistance, PPS can withstand high temperatures. It can be used continuously at temperatures up to 220 °C and withstands short-term temperature peaks of up to 250 °C. This makes it ideal for use in high-temperature environments, such as in the automotive and aerospace industries.
Dimensional stability and flame retardancy
PPS has excellent dimensional stability, meaning it retains its shape and size even when exposed to chemicals or high temperatures. This is important in applications where precision is crucial, such as in precision machinery and instruments.
Furthermore, PPS is naturally flame-retardant, meaning it does not burn or emit toxic gases in the event of a fire. This makes it suitable for use where fire safety is important, for example in the aerospace and defence industries.
Applications and comparison with PAEK
PPS is used in many sectors, such as chemical manufacturing and purification, the automotive and aerospace industries, and in precision machinery and instruments. It is also a popular choice for applications in the oil and gas industry, where high temperatures and chemicals are present.
So how does PPS compare with other high-temperature plastics, such as PAEK? PAEK is a high-performance plastic with high chemical resistance and temperature resistance. PAEK is often more expensive than PPS and can be more difficult to process. PPS is therefore a good alternative in many cases where PAEK is not essential.
PPS has slightly lower temperature resistance than PAEK, but on the other hand, it offers higher chemical resistance. PPS also has a lower density, which can be an advantage in certain contexts. The choice of plastic depends on the specific requirements.
Properties summarised
- Chemical resistance: Resistant to most chemicals, including acids and bases
- Temperature resistance: Continuous use up to 220 °C, short-term peaks up to 250 °C
- Dimensional stability: Retains shape and size when exposed to chemicals and high temperatures
- Flame retardancy: Intrinsically flame-retardant, without added flame retardants
- Density: 1.3 to 1.4 g/cm³
We offer PPS in various shapes and sizes, including sheets, rods and tubes. The material can be machined using standard methods, such as milling, drilling and welding.
Would you like to know more about PPS and how it can be used? Please feel free to contact us! We’ll help you choose the right plastic for your needs and advise you on machining and moulding.
PPS: High-Performance Plastic for Demanding Environments