As a leading manufacturer in precision tool components, Drake offers a comprehensive range of products including chucks, turrets, CNC tool holders, rotary cylinders, tool magazines, indexing plates, optical machines, vises, CNC lathes, collet chucks, and angle heads. Our accessories are engineered to deliver superior performance, durability, and precision for various industrial machining applications. Whether you need high clamping force, rapid tool changes, or customizable solutions, Drake ensures seamless integration with your CNC equipment. Explore common questions answered by our experts to help you make informed purchasing and operational decisions.
Link to DRAKE
At Drake, we offer a full range of high-performance chucks engineered to deliver precision, stability, and durability in demanding machining environments. Our product line includes hydraulic chucks, pneumatic chucks, and manual chucks, all designed for secure clamping and optimal torque transmission. Whether you need hollow or solid types, 3-jaw or custom clamping solutions, Drake chucks are compatible with CNC lathes, turning centers, and special-purpose machines. Built with hardened steel and advanced surface treatments, our chucks ensure long service life and high concentricity. Backed by efficient delivery, global service support, and customizable options, Drake chucks are trusted by manufacturers worldwide to enhance productivity and machining accuracy.
A: Chucks are divided into: hydraulic chucks, pneumatic chucks and manual chucks.
A: What is the size of your workpiece? What machine is it used on? Is it hollow or solid? How many claws are needed?
A: It depends on whether your workpiece passes through the chuck.
A: Our chuck installation method is the same as that of Korea, Japan, and Taiwan.
A: 4-24 inch chucks are in stock and shipped as normal. The warranty period is 12 months.
A: Can be sold separately.
Drake’s high-performance CNC turrets are engineered to meet the rigorous demands of modern turning applications, offering reliable indexing, high-speed rotation, and precise positioning. Our turret series includes servo-driven, hydraulic, and electric models with configurations from 4 to 12 stations, suitable for horizontal and vertical lathes. Designed for fast tool change and high repeatability, Drake turrets help manufacturers reduce cycle time and boost machining efficiency. Each unit is constructed with premium alloy steel, precision-ground components, and advanced sealing systems to ensure durability and minimal maintenance. Whether you're integrating into automated production lines or upgrading existing machines, Drake provides flexible solutions with compatible tool holders, motors, and customized mounting options. Trusted by customers worldwide, our turrets are backed by fast delivery, a 12-month warranty, and technical support tailored to your machine model and production goals.
The sending plate and knife holder can be sold separately.
We have the 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 station numbers.
Both servo motors and electric motors are available. Which one do you specifically need?
Different types of knife holders have different center heights. Please refer to our catalog for selection, or tell us what center height you need.
It depends on the specific type of turret you have chosen. Generally, the turret we sell is equipped with corresponding accessories.
We have both vertical and horizontal turret.
The turret is divided into: power living turret, servo hydraulic turret, electric turret.
The center height of our tool holder is 63, 80, 100, 125 mm. What center height do you need?
Center height: the height from the bottom of the tool holder to the tip of the tool.
Our tool holder has 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 stations.
The sensor, tool holder, and motor can be sold separately.
Servo hydraulic turret and electric turret are in stock. The power living turret needs to be customized according to your needs. The warranty period is 12 months.
Please confirm with us based on the specific model of the tool holder.
Please confirm with us based on the specific model of the tool holder.
Please confirm with us for the specific replacement content.
Drake CNC tool holders are engineered for precision, rigidity, and versatility across a wide range of turning and milling applications. Built from high-strength alloy steel and machined with strict tolerances, our tool holders deliver excellent stability and repeatability, even under high-speed or heavy-duty cutting conditions. We offer a complete lineup including axial and radial live tool holders, fixed tool holders, boring tool holders, and ER collet holders, compatible with major turret interfaces such as BMT40, BMT55, BMT65, and more. Each unit is available with internal or external coolant systems and locking options to suit diverse machining needs. Whether for high-volume production or custom solutions, Drake provides tool holders that ensure optimal cutting performance, tool life extension, and compatibility with your CNC systems. Supported by in-stock availability, custom manufacturing, and a 2-year warranty, Drake CNC tool holders are trusted by global OEMs and job shops for reliable, high-precision machining.
Internal and External Locking.
The advantage of internal locking is more stable tool clamping and higher precision.
The main body is made of forged steel in one piece.
0 degree and 90 degree driven tool holder.
Fix the tool holder according to the installation requirements of the machine tool using appropriate bolts or fixtures, ensuring that the coaxiality and perpendicularity of the tool holder with the machine tool spindle or turret components meet the requirements. During the installation process, tighten the bolts to the specified torque.
Carefully check the technical parameters of the machine and the specification manual of the tool holder, understand the type, size, and positioning method of the tool turret or spindle interface of the machine tool, and ensure that the interface of the tool holder is completely matched with the machine tool. At the same time, the installation size and space requirements of the knife holder should also be considered.
The tool holder is divided into: 0+90 degree power tool holder, fixed tool holder.
Our tool holders include BMT40, BMT45, BMT55, BMT65, BMT75, and BMT85.
Our tool holders have two cooling methods, external cooling and internal cooling.
Our tool holders have two locking methods, external locking and internal locking.
Which machine model is your tool holder used on?
Standard 0+90 degree and fixed tool holders are available in stock with a 2-year warranty.
No, the chuck of the power tool holder is fixed and cannot be replaced.
Boring tool holder.
Can be used with a reducer and an extension rod. If you want to use an ER32 chuck, you can use a D40-32 reducer and a 32 handle.
No, some models have yellow and black colors.
Yes, please send us the drawing for confirmation. Contact now.
Drake rotary cylinders are designed to provide reliable and precise rotary motion for CNC lathes and automated clamping systems. Engineered with high-quality carbon steel barrels and quenched 40Cr alloy steel piston rods, our rotary cylinders deliver excellent wear resistance, corrosion protection, and long service life. Available in both hollow and solid shaft configurations, they support a wide range of spindle sizes and are compatible with various chuck types. Each cylinder undergoes strict quality control and surface treatments, such as precision honing and chrome plating, to ensure smooth operation under high-speed, high-pressure conditions. With optional sizes ranging from 4 to 15 inches, Drake rotary cylinders are ideal for high-efficiency machining environments requiring fast and stable clamping. In-stock models are available for immediate shipment, and custom solutions can be developed based on your machine type and workholding needs. Backed by a 12-month warranty and professional technical support, Drake rotary cylinders help manufacturers improve safety, efficiency, and machine uptime.
A: The cylinder barrel is made of high-quality carbon steel, which has undergone quenching and tempering treatment and precision honing. The piston rod is made of 40Cr alloy steel, which has undergone quenching and chrome plating treatment, making it wear-resistant and corrosion-resistant.
A: It has good sealing and oil resistance, no leakage risk under rated pressure, and a long service life.
A: Discounts can be given for bulk purchases based on the order quantity, and specific details can be negotiated.
A: Our products have obtained ISO quality management system certification, CE certification, etc. to ensure that the product quality meets international standards.
A: Supports various installation methods such as flange type and base type, adapting to different mechanical equipment requirements.
A: Cylinders are divided into: 1. Hydraulic cylinders and pneumatic cylinders; 2. Solid cylinders and hollow cylinders.
A: 1. Is your chuck hollow or solid? 2. Do you need to see if your workpiece passes through the cylinder?
A: 4-15 inch cylinder are in stock and shipped as normal. The warranty period is 12 months.
Drake tool magazines are built for fast, reliable tool change in CNC machining centers. Available in carousel (umbrella-type) and chain-type designs, our magazines support 8 to 20 stations and integrate seamlessly with automatic tool changers. Designed for durability, precision, and efficient operation, they improve production speed while minimizing downtime. Custom configurations available upon request.
A: Generally, we have 8 workstations, 10 workstations, 12 workstations, 16 workstations, and 20 workstations.
A: The bracket needs to be purchased separately and customized after the customer provides the model and plans it.
A: Pneumatic.
A: When installing tools, ensure that the handle matches the tool holder clamp of the tool magazine, and the installation accuracy meets the requirements. Insert the tool accurately into the chuck and clamp it with the corresponding clamping device.
A: The single tool changing time of the tool magazine is about 3TC, and it adopts technologies such as dual robotic arms and high-speed transmission mechanism to achieve efficient and fast tool changing.
A: The quotation does not include free installation and debugging services. We provide online technical guidance to ensure the normal operation of the equipment. Contact now.
Drake’s indexing plates are precision-engineered for accurate angular positioning in machining and inspection applications. Available in mechanical, optical, and CNC types, our indexing plates ensure high repeatability and robust performance across gear cutting, keyway milling, and circular machining tasks. Built with durable materials and high-precision components, they offer excellent torque resistance and smooth indexing. Custom sizes and configurations are available to meet your specific equipment needs.
A: The indexing disc usually uses mechanisms such as gears, worm gears, and the indexing disc body to achieve indexing.
A: We have mechanical indexing plates, optical indexing plates, and CNC indexing plates.
A: Of course, our indexing plate is suitable for various workpieces that require angular indexing processing, including circular, polygonal, and parts with circular indexing requirements.
A: The rotational speed of the indexing disc has a certain impact on the indexing. Within a certain range, increasing the rotational speed appropriately can improve production efficiency, but if the rotational speed is too high, it may lead to a decrease in indexing accuracy.
A: 1. Strong anti-interference ability 2. Good durability 3. Instant division 4. Good compatibility with traditional devices
Drake’s optical machines are precision-machined base structures designed for CNC machining centers, VMCs, and gantry-type machines. Available in both linear rail and box-way configurations, our optical machines ensure excellent rigidity, vibration damping, and alignment accuracy. Each unit is optimized for stability during high-speed and heavy-load operations, making it ideal for complex part processing. We offer customization based on machine model, size, and application requirements.
A: We have wire or hard rail milling composite machines.
A: We can provide the relevant accessories, such as turret and tool holders.
A: Firstly, it is necessary to clarify the application scenario and specific requirements. In addition, factors such as the size, weight, and interface type of the optical machine need to be considered to ensure that it can be used in conjunction with other devices.
A: The stability of optical machines is influenced by various factors, including the rigidity of mechanical structures, the thermal stability of materials, changes in environmental temperature and humidity, vibration, etc.
A: Generally by sea.
Drake’s precision vises are built for stable and secure clamping in milling, drilling, and CNC machining operations. Available in mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic types, our vises offer strong clamping force, wear resistance, and excellent repeatability. Made from high-strength alloy steel, the jaws are hardened for durability and accuracy under heavy loads. Suitable for both metal and wood applications, Drake vises are ideal for manufacturers seeking efficiency, reliability, and long service life.
A: Vises work through components such as lead screws, nuts, and jaws. When the screw is rotated, the nut will move on the screw, thereby driving the movable jaw to move relative to the fixed jaw, achieving clamping and loosening of the workpiece. The thread fit of the screw and nut can provide a large clamping force, ensuring that the workpiece remains fixed during the machining process.
A: We have mechanical vises, hydraulic vises, and pneumatic vises.
A: The width specifications of vise jaws are diverse, commonly including 50mm, 60mm, 80mm, 100mm, 125mm, 150mm, 200mm, etc.
A: Choose the appropriate installation location, usually on the worktable of the machine tool. Place the vise on the workbench and use fixing devices such as bolts or pressure plates to securely fix the vise on the workbench. Pay attention to making the jaws of the vise parallel or perpendicular to the coordinate axis of the machine tool.
A: Vises are suitable for various types of workpieces, including metal parts of various shapes, plastic parts, wood, etc.
A: 20CrMnTi, which is alloy steel.
Drake’s CNC lathe machines deliver high-precision turning performance for both simple and complex components. Designed with rigid cast iron beds, servo-driven spindles, and advanced control systems, our lathes ensure excellent accuracy, stability, and repeatability. Available in horizontal and vertical configurations, they support a wide range of tooling systems and automation options. Ideal for industries such as automotive, aerospace, and mold manufacturing, Drake CNC lathes help increase productivity while reducing cycle time and manual intervention.
Are you interested in learning more about China Collet Chuck? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!
A: We both have the vertical and horizontal lathe.
A: We both have the CNC and manual lathe.
A: 1. High Precision 2. Stable Processing Quality 3. High Degree of Automation 4. High Production Efficiency 5. Strong Capability for Complex Part Machining
A: We are Industry and trade integration.
A: Generally by sea.
Drake’s collet chucks offer high-precision, quick-change clamping solutions for CNC lathes and machining centers. Available in pneumatic, hydraulic, and vertical styles, our collet chucks provide strong gripping force and excellent concentricity, ideal for high-speed, high-accuracy operations. Designed to accommodate various workpiece sizes, they ensure minimal runout and improved machining efficiency. Customizable models and matching accessories, such as collets and claws, are also available to meet specific application requirements.
A: We have hydraulic collet chucks and pneumatic collet chucks.
A: The clamping force of the hydraulic chuck may be around -N. The clamping force of pneumatic chuck is usually around 500-N.
A: The service life of the chuck is affected by various factors, including the material, manufacturing process, frequency of use, usage environment, and maintenance status of the chuck, so it is difficult to give an exact time.
A: The collet chuck needs to be purchased separately.
A: This chuck can be used in either internal or external clamp configurations.
A: The forward push chuck achieves clamping by pushing forward, using the front push rod to tighten the clamping claw. The pull back chuck achieves clamping by pulling backwards. Pull back chucks typically offer higher positioning accuracy and repeatability, suitable for precision machining, while front push chucks are more widely used where speed and ease of clamping are prioritized over high precision.
A: The collet chucks are divided into: pneumatic collet chucks, hydraulic collet chucks, and vertical collet chucks.
A: What is the size of your workpiece?
A: The chuck body is in stock, but the collet needs to be customized according to the size of your workpiece. The production lead time is about 10-15 days, and the warranty period is 12 months.
A: Collet and claw can be sold separately.
A: Yes, it is one-to-one size.
A: Can be customized according to your drawings.
A: Installation screws and air nozzles, as well as collet wrenches.
A: Yes.
A: Yes, please tell us the speed, clamping accuracy, whether to rotate, clamping force, and processing you need.
Drake’s angle heads are precision accessories designed to extend the machining capabilities of CNC machines by enabling tool operation at various angles. Available in light, 90-degree right-angle, universal, and tilt series, our angle heads ensure high accuracy and smooth transmission through advanced gearing and assembly. Compatible with multiple spindle interfaces like SK, CAT, BT, and HSK, they support maximum rotational speeds up to rpm. Customizable angles and heights are available to suit diverse machining requirements, backed by reliable performance and a 12-month warranty.
A: Generally, the maximum speed that the angle head can achieve is rpm.
A: We can provide multiple driven handle options, such as HK, HSK, CAT, KM, BT, and NT.
A: The accuracy of the angle head is mainly ensured through high-precision component manufacturing and assembly.
A: Angle head is a type of machine tool accessory, which works by transmitting the rotational motion of the machine tool spindle to the tool through internal transmission mechanisms such as gears and shafts, and changing the axis direction of the tool to form a certain angle with the machine tool spindle axis, thereby achieving machining of workpieces in different angle directions.
A: Firstly, it is necessary to correctly install the machine tool spindle and angle head connecting bolts. During the installation process, specialized installation tools should be used to follow the prescribed installation steps. Attention should be paid to adjusting the position and angle of the angle head. After installation, a trial run should be conducted to check whether the rotation of the angle head is smooth, and whether there are any abnormal noises or vibrations.
A: The adjustable angle of our universal angle head is 360 degrees.
A: Angle head options include: light series, 90 degree right angle series, universal series, and tilt series.
A: SK, CAT, BT, K, NT, HSK, etc.
A: The angle can be customized according to your requirements. We usually produce 30 degrees, 60 degrees, 90 degrees, and universal types.
A: The angle head can be customized according to the height you require.
A: The standard product delivery time is 7–10 days, and the warranty period is 12 months.
A: Can be sold separately.
A: Yes, please provide the interface size.
At Drake, we understand that choosing the right machine tool accessories is critical for achieving optimal machining efficiency and product quality. Our FAQ section covers essential topics such as product specifications, compatibility, installation methods, customization options, delivery timelines, and warranty policies. Supported by industry-leading technology and professional customer service, Drake’s accessories are designed to boost your manufacturing productivity and minimize downtime. Trust Drake for reliable, high-precision components tailored to your specific needs.
Torlon L is primarily an injection molding grade resin. Extruded shapes are typically made from Torlon resin. The chemistry is identical, and the performance is equal in all aspects.
The wear resistance and chemical resistance of Torlon improves when machined parts are re-cured after machining. The limiting PV and wear rates can improve by a factor of 5X with re-curing. Many applications are successfully handled with Torlon machined but not being re-cured after machining since Drake fully cures the material prior to it ever shipping from our Cypress, TX facility. For high speed (V greater than 100 FPM and PV’s above 10,000 PSI-FPM we generally recommend re-curing of machined parts).
All Drake supplied Torlon can be certified to ASTM D and AMS at no additional cost. ASTM D supersedes and has replaced Mil-P-A. Additionally, Torlon can be certified upon request to: Hamilton Sunstrand MS29.04 Boeing material specification BMS Honeywell MCS General Electric specification A50TF190
The base resin used to produce all of these shapes is chemically the same. The uniqueness of each process requires different resin characteristics that result in slightly different properties of the final shape. Fiber orientation and directional differences in properties may exist for reinforced grades.
The strongest of the Torlon grades is with not far behind. contains 30% glass fiber which provides strength, dimensional stability over temperature change and excellent thermal isolation and electrical insulation properties. offers a slightly higher stiffness due to carbon fiber reinforcement. Check with Drake as we now have an even stronger grade under development.
Torlon, like most materials, absorbs water when saturated or placed in high humidity conditions. The grade and geometry of the part influences the rate of water pick up and the resultant growth. Thicker cross sections take very long to reach equilibrium and will likely never reach saturation. Glass and carbon fiber reinforced grades absorb less water than . Many of the bearing grades absorb even less. Below are some specific examples provided for reference:
Torlon is a trade name of Solvay Specialty Polymers. It is the original PAI having been developed by Amoco in the early ’s. Today there are other PAI chemistries being investigated, but Solvay’s Torlon PAI remains the premier resin for high performance application. Mitsubishi Chemical Advanced Materials (MCAM), the first to extrude Torlon, markets their PAI products under their registered trade name Duratron PAI. They continue to use the Torlon designations of T and T to denote the two primary grades they offer. They also use 4XG and 4XCF designations to denote two reinforced grades (glass and carbon fiber respectively). Drake processes all Torlon grades and uses the Torlon family name for all product identification. We refer to all Torlon materials by their resin designation and reference a resin batch number too. Both companies use the same raw material but name their shape products differently for commercial reasons.
There can be a difference between the performance of injection molded parts and machined Torlon parts, just as there can be with molded and machined parts made from other polymers. Fiber reinforced Torlon grades can exhibit directionality of strength, stiffness and CLTE related to fiber orientation while the material is molten. In general, the strength and stiffness are greater and the CLTE lower in the cross extrusion direction of extruded rods and plates. Seamless Tube has slightly better properties in the “hoop” or circumferential direction. Directional differences in extruded shapes can range from 10% to 25%. Molded components can often be gated to maximize the properties in specific directions. Machined parts are typically the toughest and most durable.
Torlon develops a dark outer skin from the cure process. This skin can be thought of as a fully cured phase that results from the chemical reaction PAI undergoes as it changes from a thermoplastic to a thermoset. We often describe it as an oxide to “metal heads” but it is not. It is pure Torlon. It generally is about .020-.030″ in thickness and can be machined away or left in place. It may appear slightly harder than interior sections. The darker bearing grades such as , , , and carbon fiber reinforced have such an outer skin but the dark grey/black color makes it impossible to see.
Torlon has great wear resistance especially in higher PV applications. The bearing grades are best but even glass reinforced performs well as rollers and wheels. The wear resistance is maximized by post curing parts after machining and by thoroughly curing injection molded parts. We have seen the limiting PV and the wear rate improve by a factor of 5X with recurring after machining.
Torlon has a very good chemical resistance to most hydrocarbon-based solvents including jet fuel, and gasoline; acids, mild bases, chlorinated and fluorinated hydrocarbons and alcohols. Strong bases such as NaOH should be avoided. Saturated steam and some high temperature acids will also breakdown Torlon. Post curing after machining improves chemical resistance as well as wear resistance.
Diamonds are both a girl’s and Torlon’s best friend. We suggest using polycrystalline diamond insert style tools to provide the best possible finish and closest tolerances for machine Torlon parts. Carbide tooling can be used for short runs but attention to tool wear is required so proper offsets are maintained over medium and longer runs. The bottom line – investing in the right tooling will pay off in the long run via longer tool life and fewer rejected parts.
Drake provides Machining Guides under Resources for all materials on our website.
Torlon cannot be recycled after it has been cured. Runners and sprues from an injection molding process can be recycled prior to curing. Machined turnings/swarf and remnants cannot because they have been fully cured by Drake prior to being supplied.
Drake has extruded rod as small as .048″. We call it wire, as it can be coiled for feeding into an automated process. The largest diameter solid rod Drake extrudes is 10″. We have also extruded 7.5″ OD tube. We supply rod and tube with 3” and greater diameters by the inch up to 48″ L. If you are looking for something larger Ask Drake as we are always pushing the status quo.
Vespel, made and supplied in shape form by DuPont is a fully imidized polyimide. It is the original and most recognized of the commercially supplied polyimides. Torlon is a polyamide-imide in which the chemistry has been modified so that the material can be melt processed (molded or extruded) and then cured. This change provides process flexibility along with the wear resistance and temperature capability normally associated with polyimides. Here is the biggest surprise… Torlon has greater strength, stiffness and a lower CLTE than Vespel. Torlon also has better wear resistance under most PV conditions. Vespel does however win in all applications above 500°F.
Torlon and Torlon are both well suited for very low temperature and even cryogenic applications. Both materials offer low temperature impact resistance and a coefficient of linear thermal expansion (CLTE) that closely matches common metals like aluminum and stainless steel. Of the two materials Torlon is generally preferred as it has the lowest CLTE of the Torlon grades.
Torlon Seamless Tube is a tubular product form developed by Drake that eliminates the knit or weld lines common with other extruded plastic tubing. Typical tube set-ups involve molten plastic moving around or through a “spider die” before it joins again with other molten material prior to solidification. This situation can create weak regions in the final shape. Drake’s trade marked Seamless Tube has no such weak areas resulting in a homogenous cross section that stays round during and after machining. Fibers are oriented in a hoop direction maximizing the burst strength while reducing the CLTE in the radial direction.
Both Solvay PEEK and Victrex PEEK are high quality resins supplied with certifications to relevant ASTM and AMS specifications. Victrex PEEK is the original, having been supplied for more than 30 years. It is slightly stronger but less ductile than Solvay PEEK. Both materials have a similar but not exact light tan to light grey color in the natural form. We find Solvay PEEK to be slightly more ductile and better suited for thick cross section shapes.
We have a strategic relationship with both Solvay and Victrex and have customers who ask for both brands. Larger cross section shapes such as 4-10″ diameter are mostly made from Solvay grades.
Both materials belong to the family of materials known as polyarylether ketones (PAEK). HT is based on a slightly different chemistry (PEK) that results in a slightly higher strength and softening temperature than standard PEEK. The strength difference is 5-10% at room temperature and the softening temperature 15-20°F. The overall chemical inertness of PEK may be slightly less than PEEK in some very aggressive environments.
All PEEK materials offer good wear resistance but FC30, Drake Bearing Grade, and FE20 are best suited for sliding and rotating bearing applications. Both FC30 and FE20 are best for applications requiring FDA compliance.
Yes. On a custom, MTO basis (made-to-order). Black is most common. We stock black resin, so a fast turnaround is generally possible. Colors typically require MOQ’s of 50 lbs. and lead times of 6 weeks.
Non-reinforced PEEK based on KT820 (or Victrex 450G), Victrex GL30, CA30, FC30, 450FE20, and HT are compliant with the guidelines for direct food contact specifically European regulations /72/EC and FDA 21 CFR 177..
Drake Plastics does not offer implantable PEEK shapes but offers conversion services via Genesis Medical Plastics. Please contact Genesis Medical Plastics for more information.
PEEK is one of the most chemically inert polymers. All formulations based on PEEK will exhibit similar resistance to most chemical environments. Strong acids may attack glass fibers more than carbon fibers. HT based on PEK has slightly different resistance than PEEK based grades. It offers less resistance to saturated steam.
Drake brand PEEK products are offered for those interested using PEEK in industrial applications where many, but not all, of PEEK’s characteristics are required. These products are made from a variety of resin sources and can exhibit greater variations in color and appearance than Victrex or Solvay brand PEEK. Drake brand PEEK products are not certified to ASTM, ISO, Mil-P Spec or FDA specifications.
We suggest using polycrystalline diamond insert style tools to provide the best possible finish and closest tolerances for machined PEEK parts. Carbide tooling can be used for short runs but attention to tool wear is required so proper offsets are maintained over medium and longer runs. The bottom line is investing in the right tooling will pay-off in the long run via longer tool life and fewer rejected parts. Glass and carbon fiber reinforced grades are the most abrasive on tooling.
We do not offer any materials that have been specifically formulated for targeted surface or volume resistivity. However, materials containing carbon fiber and graphite offer some level of electrical conductivity that prevents ESd from occurring. Parts contacting sensitive electrical components should be made from materials with a targeted electrical resistivity range. One of the most recognized is the Semitron® family.
Drake does not offer any metal detectable grades from stock but can offer such PEEK based materials on a make-to-order (MTO) basis.
AvaSpire is a PAEK based blend that offers performance similar to traditional PEEK materials with the following uniqueness:
AV 621NT and AV621 GF30 are FDA compliant for 21CFR 177. as well as European regulations /72EC.
Ryton PPS is arguably the original high-performance thermoplastic having been introduced by Phillips in the ’s. The inherent temperature and chemical resistance of PPS and its low cost provided the answer to many tough design problems in the oil and gas and automotive industries but a low softening temperature (Tg) kept it from realizing its potential. The addition of 40% glass fiber helped overcome the low softening point enabling it to be used up to its degradation temperature. The tradename Ryton R4 became synonymous with 40% glass reinforced PPS, a material that was much stronger than PTFE but still nearly as resistant to high temperatures and aggressive chemicals. Today it is specified for many downhole applications including rod guides and pump parts as well as “under-hood” automotive components and fluid contact parts in analytical equipment.
Drake’s Ryton R4 is made from 100% virgin Ryton R4 resin. Many other commercially available “Ryton PPS” products are made via inhouse blends of PPS and glass that are compression molded or ram extruded into shape form. Drake’s melt extruded Ryton R4 has the maximum toughness and strength among competing PPS products. It also comes with a certification to ASTM D.
Techtron is a tradename belonging to Mitsubishi Chemical Advanced Materials (MCAM) used to identify their PPS based stock shapes. Techtron PPS is an unfilled grade and Techtron HPV is a bearing and wear grade. Drake’s Ryton R4 has 40% glass reinforcement for high strength and maximum heat resistance.
Compression molding and ram extrusion are two processing techniques used to form shapes from difficult to process, highly filled resins. Both techniques involve heating resin (in powder form) to temperatures just below the melting point and using high pressure to consolidate finely ground powders into rods plates and tubes. Melt extrusion is a continuous process in which pellets are melted and forced through a die under constant pressure at a controlled rate. Melt extrusion provides the best properties of the 3 process techniques. Drake specializes in melt extrusion meaning all our Ryton R4 is melt extruded.
Fiber orientation in all plastic shapes influences the properties determined by test specimens machined from an extruded or molded shape. Resin datasheets reflect properties determined by testing specimens made by injection molding in a highly controlled process. Resin datasheet properties can be compared with other resin datasheet properties but not with specimens machined from a larger shape.
Read Understanding Datasheets to Maximize Parts Performance in our blog.
Ultem PEI (polyetherimide) is a high temperature resistant amorphous thermoplastic available in several grades. All carry a UL94 V-0 flammability rating, exhibit low smoke generation, have excellent hydrolytic and dimensional stability, and resist long term exposure to steam and a broad range of chemicals.
Both materials are ultra high-performance polymers with properties that serve different applications. Ultem has far greater dielectric strength than most polymers including PEEK. As a semi-crystalline material, PEEK offers better resistance to friction and wear. It also withstands a far wider range of chemicals. Both materials exhibit excellent thermal properties: For example, 30% glass-reinforced Ultem ’s heat deflection temperature is 410oF (210oC), while 30% glass-reinforced PEEK can withstand application temperatures of 450oF (232oC) and higher.
The 30% glass fiber content of Ultem affords strength and stiffness at temperatures as high as 390°F/ 200°C. It has a glass transition (Tg) temperature of ~422°F / 217°C and an in-flow coefficient of linear thermal expansion (CLTE) value of 1.1 E-5/°F (1.98 E–5/ °C), comparable to aircraft grade aluminum. Ultem also has exceptional dielectric strength compared to most other polymeric materials- Ultem has the highest dielectric strength of any commercially available thermoplastic at 830 V/mil.
The geometries of many Ultem parts are best suited to machining from tube or a ring rather than drilling out the ID from rod. This saves cost in both material and machine time. Ultem Seamless Tube, a tubular product form developed by Drake, also affords greater hoop strength than a part machined from rod or plate. It also provides greater dimensional stability and tolerance control during machining because of Drake’s ability to control material flow and fiber orientation during extrusion.