A Deep Dive into its Electrical and Chemical Resilience

Hydrogen energy is rapidly emerging as a clean and sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. However, scaling up hydrogen production, storage, and utilization on a commercial level presents significant material challenges. A major hurdle in the industry is the development of scalable, efficient, and cost-effective solutions that can not only boost production and distribution but also endure extreme operating conditions.

For those intrigued by the prospects of fuel cell electrolyzers, valve seats, or any high-performance applications, we invite you to delve into the fascinating world of advanced materials, with a focus on the extraordinary Arlon® 3160XT.

This glass-reinforced cross-linked PEEK material offers exceptional improvement in mechanical, electrical performance compared to standard PEEK materials, while maintaining excellent chemical resistance. As we explore its impressive creep resistance, versatility in manufacturing, and high-temperature resistance capabilities, we will also answer popular questions about Arlon materials.

Get all your questions answered in our detailed and easy-to-navigate FAQ section below.

1. What manufacturing options are available with Arlon® 3160XT?
Arlon® 3160XT products can be manufactured via injection molding and extrusion stock shapes can be machined to final dimensions with similar machining capabilities as standard filled PEEK. While compression molding hasn't been extensively tested, initial evaluations indicate it should also be possible. If compression molding is of interest, we encourage follow-up discussions to explore its feasibility.

2. What is the maximum operating temperature for Arlon® 3160XT?
The maximum temperature range depends on the specific application:

• Short-term excursions: Up to 300–400°C.
• Medium-term operation: Safely within 250–300°C.
• Long-term use: Case-specific, depending on exposure to fluids and aging conditions.

For sustained use at high temperatures, performance will exceed that of standard materials like PEEK, delivering increased mechanical strength above their Tg (glass transition temperature).

3. Can Arlon® 3160XT operate in cryogenic conditions?
Cryogenic performance of Arlon® 3160XT has not yet been exhaustively tested. However, initial observations with standard Arlon® 3000XT indicate some enhanced toughness compared to PEEK at low temperatures. For cryogenic-specific applications, follow-up evaluations can be conducted to meet customer requirements.

4. How does Arlon® 3160XT compare to PPS?
Arlon® 3160XT significantly outperforms PPS, especially at elevated temperatures. Key differences include:

• PPS exhibits a Tg of around 80°C, leading to significant property loss at higher temperatures. Arlon® 3160XT, with a Tg of ~190°C, provides excellent mechanical robustness for applications requiring strength and stiffness above 80°C.
• Improved creep properties vs PPS. Longer lasting and mechanically superior performance under load compared to PPS in demanding environments.

If PPS is currently used but shows limitations, Arlon® 3160XT may present a more robust alternative.

5. Is Arlon® 3160XT widely used in electrical equipment?
Yes, Arlon® materials, including 3160XT, are commonly utilized in electrical components where precision and reliability are critical. For instance, they are extensively applied in our Seal-Connect® product line, offering excellent electrical properties even at high temperatures. These materials also exhibit superior chemical resistance, ensuring high performance in challenging environments featuring moisture or corrosive agents.

6. What information is available on gas permeability for Arlon® 3160XT?
Arlon® 3000XT (the base polymer used in 3160) has demonstrated exceptional resistance to gas permeation, including hydrogen. Its cross-linked structure ensures:

• Minimal swelling or weight gain from exposure to gases.
• Low diffusion rates, especially when combined with fillers like glass, which further reduce permeation.

For hydrogen-based applications requiring robust sealing, Arlon® 3160XT is a promising candidate.

7. Are there any known chemicals that Arlon® 3160XT shows poor resistance to?
Arlon® 3160XT demonstrates excellent chemical resistance across a broad pH range (-6 to 14.5). Unlike standard PEEK:

• It resists dissolution in aggressive chemicals like sulfuric acid.
• Crosslinking further improves resistance to low and high pH environments.

For highly specific chemical exposure scenarios (e.g., HF acid), chemically specific testing is recommended to ensure compatibility.

8. How does Arlon® 3160XT perform in wear and friction applications?
Though Arlon® 3160XT was not designed as a tribological grade, the Arlon 3000XT base polymer’s crosslinked structure improves the limiting PV (pressure-velocity) by 50% vs. comparable filled grades made with “standard” non-crosslinked PEEK. It is a viable option for dynamic sealing applications if glass-filled grades are currently providing satisfactory results, but higher mechanical strength, creep resistance, or high temperature properties are needed.

9. What is the cost comparison with regular PEEK and PPS?
Arlon® 3160XT is an ultra-high performance material that competes with polyimides, high temperature thermosets designed to deliver superior performance in demanding applications. The additional capabilities are reached through advanced chemistry with costs that are competitive with other materials in the same class:

• Material and Manufacturing Costs: necessitated by chemistry required to deliver its advanced properties and tailored solutions.
• Operational Cost Savings: Offers increased durability and longer product lifetimes, thus reducing overall ownership costs.

We recommend discussing specific requirements with our sales representatives to evaluate cost-effectiveness for your application.

10. Can Arlon® 3160XT support injection molding of thin walls?
Arlon® 3160XT demonstrates flow properties similar to, or better than, glass-filled PEEK. Thin wall applications (0.006–0.01 inches) may be achievable but may require customized formulation adjustments. Discussing specific requirements with our team ensures optimal results for your project.

Have More Questions?
Let us partner with you for the future of clean energy.
Our technical team is here to assist! For inquiries about Arlon® 3160XT or tailored solutions for your specific application, feel free to contact us.