High performance polymer producer Quadrant (Zurich / Switzerland; www.quadrant.ch) has introduced “Duratron” D7000 polyimides (PI) and modified PEEK “Semitron” MP370 for the production of machined parts for use in high temperature applications. “Duratron” D7000 PI and the new bearing grade “Duratron” D7015G PI are high performance polyimide materials for applications operating in the region of 315 °C. Polyimide has been used widely in semiconductor and electronics manufacturing equipment for years and “Duratron” D7000 PI materials are available in an extended range of sheet sizes and tube configurations, offering new opportunities in parts design.

Ceramic-filled PEEK “Semitron” MP370 offers semiconductor test socket designers a stable platform for advanced design by allowing builders to more closely tailor the socket material to the application environment. The material is not subject to the “soft centre” or inconsistent physical properties that can be found in injection moulded shapes. As a result of its machinability, engineers can now generate very small diameter holes and very tight hole patterns with a generic, ceramic filled PEEK.