🧩 PA+PEI – Polyamide + Polyetherimide Blend
(High-performance thermal and mechanical technical material resulting from the combination of polyamide (PA66 / PA6T) and polyetherimide (PEI). Offers dimensional stability, flame resistance, and excellent electrical insulation.)
🔹 What is PA+PEI
PA+PEI is an advanced high-performance polymer blend. It combines the elasticity and adhesion of polyamide with the superior rigidity and thermal resistance of polyetherimide (PEI). The result is a thermally self-stabilized material capable of continuous operation up to 180–200 °C, with natural UL94 V-0 flame retardancy without additives.
🔧 Composition
- Polyamide (PA66 / PA6T): 40–60 %
- Polyetherimide (PEI): 40–60 %
- Additives: thermal stabilizers, natural flame retardants, glass fiber (optional 10–30 %).
- Density: 1.30–1.45 g/cm³.
- Melting Point: ≈ 270–290 °C.
- Chemical Resistance: Very good (oils, solvents, fuels).
- Continuous Heat Resistance: 180–200 °C.
🚗 Where PA+PEI is used in the automotive industry
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| Engine / Technical | Thermal sensor covers, air distributors | Thermal stability up to 200 °C |
| Electrical / Connect. | Plugs, clips, ECU housings | Electrical insulation and flame resistance |
| Technical Interior | Functional covers, mounting parts | Rigid with low shrinkage |
| Turbo / EGR | Supports, high-vibration parts | High hardness and heat resistance |
🔧 Welding Temperature and Methods
| Method | Optimal Temperature | Observations |
| Hot Air | 280 – 300 °C | Slow melting, thermal control required |
| Heat Plate (Mirror) | 270 – 290 °C | Solid joint, no bubbling |
| Manual Extrusion | 270 – 290 °C | Suitable for thick parts |
🔩 What to Weld PA+PEI With (Material Compatibility)
Compatibility is excellent with high-temperature polyamides and pure PEI.
✅ Compatible with:
- PA+PEI ↔ PA66 / PA6T / PPA / PEI (Ultem®) – excellent.
- PA+PEI ↔ PPS / PC+PA / PA+FR – good bond.
❌ Incompatible with:
- PP, PE, ABS, ASA, pure PMMA – different melting points.
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation:
Use PA+PEI or PA66 rods at 290 °C. Lightly preheat the part to eliminate internal stresses. Allow for slow cooling — PEI tends to shrink if cooled abruptly.
🏭 Manufacturers and Trade Names
- SABIC: Ultem® / Noryl® PEI Blend
- BASF: Ultramid® Advanced
- Solvay: Ixef® PEI Blend
🧠 How to Identify PA+PEI
- Engraved marking: >PA+PEI<, >Ultem<, >Ixef<, >HTN<.
- Rigid, dense surface, semi-glossy.
- Color: often amber, golden-brown, or black.
- Flame extinguishes rapidly (natural flame retardant).
- Softens at ≈ 280 °C.
- ReplastMD practical test: If the part is heavy, dense, flame retardant, and marked >Ultem<, it is confirmed Polyamide + Polyetherimide.
🛠️ PA+PEI Welding at ReplastMD:
At our ReplastMD service center (Chisinau, Ciocana sector), we perform professional PA+PEI welding for thermal sensor housings and ECU connectors, ensuring a rigid, clean, and 200 °C resistant finish.