Selection guide
Best plastics for under-hood automotive
Under-hood temperatures reach 150 °C with sustained peaks near 200 °C for turbocharged applications. PA66-GF, PA6-GF, PPA, PPS and PEEK cover intake manifolds, coolant tanks, sensor housings and electrical connectors close to the engine.
What to look for
- Continuous service temperature ≥ 150 °C
- Resistance to engine oil, coolant (glycol) and fuel vapours
- Reinforcement (GF/CF) for stiffness and creep resistance
- Vibration and fatigue behaviour validated on OEM cycles
Top materials for best plastics for under-hood automotive
- #1Ceramic SLA ResinCeramic-Filled Photopolymer Resin for SLAContinuous Service Temperature: High (depends on ceramic, e.g., >1000 °C)
SLA resin filled with ceramic particles for producing ceramic parts after firing.
- #2PEEKPolyether Ether KetoneContinuous Service Temperature: 260 °C
A semi-crystalline high-performance polymer with outstanding thermal, chemical, and mechanical properties.
- #3Extreme Chemical and Temperature Perfluoroelastomer (Kalrez)Perfluoroelastomer (FFKM - Kalrez family)Continuous Service Temperature: -20 to 327 °C
An elastomer offering the highest level of chemical resistance and thermal stability, approaching that of PTFE.
- #4PET Fiber GradePolyethylene Terephthalate for Fiber ApplicationsContinuous Service Temperature: Up to 150 °C (intermittent)
Strong, durable fibers for textiles, ropes, and industrial applications.
Values are indicative and vary by grade and manufacturer. Always confirm against the official datasheet before specification.