PEEK Screws, Nuts, Bolts, Washers are fasteners made of PEEK (Polyetheretherketone), a high-performance plastic material that has excellent mechanical and thermal properties. PEEK fasteners are widely used in various industries where high strength, low weight, and resistance to high temperatures and chemicals are required. One of these industries is the Diamond Light Source, the UK's national synchrotron facility located in Harwell.
The Diamond Light Source is a large scientific instrument that uses a beam of electrons to produce intense light beams of different wavelengths, from infrared to X-rays. These light beams are used by researchers to study the structure and properties of various materials, such as proteins, metals, ceramics, and fossils. The Diamond Light Source has 33 beam-lines, each with a different scientific focus and experimental setup.
PEEK fasteners can be used in some of the beam-lines at the Diamond Light Source to secure components that are exposed to high temperatures, radiation, vacuum, or corrosive gases. For example, PEEK screws, nuts, bolts, and washers can be used to mount detectors, lenses, mirrors, and filters that are part of the optical system of the beam-line. PEEK fasteners can also be used to attach sample holders, motors, sensors, and other devices that are part of the experimental station of the beam-line.
PEEK fasteners offer several advantages over metal fasteners in these applications. First, PEEK fasteners have a high melting point of 343°C and can withstand temperatures up to 260°C without losing their strength or shape. This makes them suitable for use in environments where metal fasteners may deform or melt due to heat. Second, PEEK fasteners have a low thermal conductivity and a low coefficient of thermal expansion. This means they do not conduct heat well and do not expand or contract much when heated or cooled. This reduces the risk of thermal stress or distortion in the components that are fastened by PEEK fasteners. Third, PEEK fasteners have a high resistance to radiation and chemicals. They do not degrade or corrode when exposed to X-rays, ultraviolet light, or acidic or alkaline gases. This increases their durability and reliability in harsh environments. Fourth, PEEK fasteners have a low density and a high strength-to-weight ratio. They are lighter than metal fasteners and can support heavy loads without adding much weight to the system. This improves the performance and efficiency of the beamline.
In conclusion, PEEK Screws, Nuts, Bolts, Washers are useful fasteners for applications that require high strength, low weight, and resistance to high temperatures and chemicals. They can be used in some of the beamlines at the Diamond Light Source to secure components that are part of the optical system or the experimental station of the beamline. PEEK fasteners offer several advantages over metal fasteners in these applications, such as higher melting point, lower thermal conductivity and expansion, higher resistance to radiation and chemicals, and lower density.
