Written on 10.08.2010 - Technology
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PEEK as metal replacement in electronic couplings

Electronic coupling made of Victrex PEEK

Victrex PEEK polymer has been selected by Huco Dynatork for its range of Multi-Beam couplings. These miniature couplings are replacing metal in a high voltage electronics assembly application used in the manufacture of plasma TV screens.

Serving to connect the drive from a small gearbox to a lead screw in a high voltage capacitor, the coupling had to meet a number of requirements such as insulation and flexibility properties. It had to be flexible in order to compensate for any unintentional misalignment which could occur between the gearbox shaft and the lead screw. Also it could not allow any current leakage or tracking across the drive. A material that delivered very good insulation due to its high surface resistance and comparative tracking index was required.

The material needed to be flexible and have a high dielectric constant. Couplings made from traditional materials, such as stainless steel and aluminium, were unable to provide these benefits. However, Victrex PEEK polymer met all of the requirements. According to Victrex Polymer Solutions, from mobile phones, circuit boards and audio speakers to printers, copiers, sensors and connectors, Victrex PEEK is being specified by electronics companies as a metal replacement.