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Material Overview
What is PAI?
PAI plastic — polyamide-imide — is an amorphous high-performance thermoplastic that sits at the top of the engineering plastics hierarchy for continuous high-temperature service. The imide and amide linkages in its backbone give PAI an outstanding combination of mechanical strength, dimensional precision, and thermal stability that most engineering thermoplastics cannot approach.
PAI material performs reliably at temperatures exceeding 250 °C (482 °F) while retaining structural integrity under sustained mechanical load. It exhibits excellent wear resistance, very low thermal expansion, and strong dimensional stability — properties that translate directly into long service life for precision-machined components in demanding environments. PAI also maintains good electrical insulation characteristics across a broad temperature range.
Typical applications include bushings, thrust washers, valve components, semiconductor wafer handling fixtures, and aerospace structural parts where weight, heat, and precision requirements rule out metals and lower-performing polymers. Its low thermal expansion coefficient is especially valuable in applications where tight clearances must be maintained from ambient temperature up to operating temperature.
Ready Plastics stocks PAI in rod and plate forms for precision machining. For applications involving sliding contact, continuous bearing loads, or dry-running conditions, see PAI AF — the anti-friction, PTFE and graphite-filled bearing grade. Visit the PAI product page for stock dimensions and quote requests.
Frequently Asked Questions
PAI, answered
What is PAI plastic?
PAI (polyamide-imide) is an amorphous high-performance thermoplastic engineered for extreme temperature service above 250 °C. It combines exceptional mechanical strength, very low thermal expansion, and wear resistance, making it a top choice for precision aerospace, semiconductor, and industrial components.
What is the difference between PAI and PAI AF?
PAI is the unfilled grade, optimized for maximum strength and dimensional precision. PAI AF is the anti-friction grade, filled with PTFE and graphite lubricants to reduce the coefficient of friction and enhance wear resistance for bearing, bushing, and sliding-contact applications. Choose PAI AF when continuous motion or dry-running contact is involved.
How does PAI compare to PEEK?
PAI generally offers higher mechanical strength and hardness than PEEK at elevated temperatures, along with superior wear resistance. PEEK has broader chemical resistance to strong acids and bases and is easier to process. For the most demanding heat and strength requirements, PAI is typically the preferred choice.
What shapes does Ready Plastics stock in PAI?
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