Polyimide (commonly abbreviated to PI) is a group of polymers that are considered to be some of the most heat and fire resistant of all high performance engineering plastics. In fact, it is thought that this particular thermoplastic has much better heat resistance when compared to any other unfilled organic material.
Photo: etharooni
Furthermore, what makes polyimides different from the vast majority of plastics is it is offered in molded parts, laminates and shapes, and stock shapes. In addition, the parts created with this material are manufactured using techniques that range from powder-metallurgy methods to extrusion, transfer, compression molding and conventional injection.
The first commercial type of PIs was introduced in the early 1960’s. Today, Polyimide is available in both thermoset resins and as a thermoplastic. This unique material has many features and can be used in a variety of applications. Some of its key features include:
- High resistance to heat
- Good thermal stability
- High-quality chemical resistance
- Good strength and toughness
- Flame retardancy
- Good creep resistance
- Amorphous
- Etc.
Because of its excellent characteristics, Poylimide has many uses that include, but are not limited to: seals, bushings, bearings, adhesives, and film, as well as aerospace, industrial, automotive, electrical and electronic applications.
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