Ultem 2300 (30% Glass Filled PEI)

Ultem 2300 is the 30% glass fiber reinforced grade of Polyetherimide, designed for applications requiring maximum rigidity, dimensional stability, and mechanical strength. By adding glass fibers, the material's thermal expansion is drastically reduced, allowing it to hold significantly tighter tolerances than unfilled plastics across a wide temperature range. At Jucheng Precision, we specialize in the CNC machining of this abrasive high-performance polymer. Utilizing specialized diamond-coated tooling and rigid 5-axis setups, we deliver precision structural components for the aerospace, medical, and semiconductor industries that demand the ultimate in structural integrity and heat resistance.

Ultem 2300

Ultem (PEI) Material Variants

Grade Common Name Key Characteristics Typical Applications
Ultem 2300 30% Glass Filled Highest rigidity and dimensional stability. Opaque tan color. Exceptional strength and heat resistance. Structural aerospace parts, high-load electrical connectors, automotive engine components.
Ultem 1000 Standard Unfilled Amber translucent. Best dielectric strength and ductility. FDA compliant. Electrical insulators, medical manifolds, sight glasses.
Ultem 2100 10% Glass Filled Bridge between 1000 and 2300. Better finish than 2300 with increased stiffness. Electronic housings, industrial brackets.
Ultem 9085 Aerospace FST Grade Optimized for high-performance with strict Flame, Smoke, and Toxicity compliance. Aircraft interior ducting, cabin brackets.

Ultem 2300 Machining Capabilities

Capability Technical Description Jucheng Advantage
Abrasive-Resistant Milling The 30% glass fiber content is highly abrasive. We utilize diamond-coated (CVD) or sub-micrograin carbide tools to maintain sharp cutting edges. Prevents tool blunting and dimensional drift, ensuring consistent +/- 0.02mm tolerances throughout long production runs.
High-Stability Structural Milling Ultem 2300 has extremely low thermal expansion. We machine large structural frames and clips with zero warpage. Our rigid Haas and Mazak 5-axis centers handle the high-modulus material with ease, delivering superior geometric accuracy.
Precision Boring & Drilling Drilling high-tolerance fastener holes and bearing bores in rigid glass-filled PEI. Advanced tool geometry prevents “chipping” or splintering at the exit of the hole, ensuring clean, sharp edges.
In-Process Stress Relief Utilizing proprietary annealing cycles between roughing and finishing passes. Crucial for maintaining absolute flatness on large Ultem 2300 plates used in semiconductor and aerospace equipment.

Fabrication Guidelines for Ultem 2300

Tool Wear Management:
The glass fiber content acts like a grinding wheel. Tip: We use high-speed spindles and lower feed rates to minimize friction heat while frequently inspecting tool sharpness to prevent material smearing.

Surface Finish Note:
Due to the 30% glass reinforcement, Ultem 2300 will have a matte, tan appearance. Tip: It cannot be polished to transparency like Ultem 1000. The focus should be on dimensional accuracy rather than optical clarity.

Coolant Strategy:
Ultem is sensitive to petroleum-based fluids. Tip: We use high-purity water-soluble coolants or specialized air-blast cooling to prevent chemical stress cracking and ensure environmental safety.

Workholding Rigidity:
The material is extremely stiff and can be brittle. Tip: We use custom soft-jaws and vacuum tables to distribute clamping forces evenly, preventing the part from cracking under localized pressure.

Primary Applications

Aerospace Structures
Structural airframe brackets, clips, and engine-zone components that require high strength-to-weight ratios and flame resistance.

High-Power Electronics
Connector housings and standoff insulators for high-voltage systems where dimensional stability under heat is critical.

Medical Equipment (Reusable)
Instrument housings and sterilization trays that must withstand repeated autoclaving without loss of mechanical strength.

Semiconductor Components
Wafer handling tools and test sockets that require high rigidity, low thermal expansion, and excellent chemical resistance.

Properties

Density 1.51 g/cm³
Tensile Strength 165 MPa
Elastic Modulus 9.0 GPa
Hardness 114 Rockwell R
Heat Deflection Temp 211 °C
Continuous Service Temp 170 °C
Water Absorption 0.16%
Dielectric Strength 24 - 28 kV/mm
Color Opaque Tan / Brown
Flammability Rating UL94 V-0
Max Part Size 2000 x 800 x 600 mm