Source: Evonik
This company has launched a new tribological material, designed especially for use in slide bearings needing to withstand high-temperature and high-pressure environments. Based on PEEK (polyether ether ketone), the VESTAKEEP Easy Slide 2 product can be used either as a polymer coating in hybrid bearings, or as a full PEEK-based bearing, depending on the application. The material is ideally processed by injection molding, but also can be extruded. VESTAKEEP® Easy Slide 2 is produced without any intentionally added fluoropolymers such as PTFE. Fluoropolymers are commonly used in polymer-based slide bearings for their desirable properties. According to the manufacturer, “comprehensive test data has shown VESTAKEEP® Easy Slide 2 to have superior tribological properties – especially in its resistance to high temperatures, pressure and velocity – when compared to other polymer-based slide bearing materials.” Other benefits of the material include energy efficiency, compatibility with injection molding and noise dampening capability. — Evonik Industries AG, Essen, Germany