Filament
PEI / ULTEM
High-performance amorphous thermoplastic (ULTEM 9085/1010) for aerospace, medical and flame-retardant parts.
Polyetherimide (PEI), sold as ULTEM, is an amorphous high-performance thermoplastic with excellent strength, heat resistance (200+ °C), flame retardancy and biocompatibility. Used in aerospace interiors, electrical enclosures and medical devices. Requires a specialized high-temp printer.
Ratings
Ease1/5
Strength5/5
Flexibility2/5
Heat res.5/5
Detail3/5
UV res.4/5
Print settings
- Nozzle temp
- 350–400 °C
- Bed temp
- 120–150 °C
- Enclosure
- Required
- Hardened nozzle
- Yes
- Drying needed
- Yes
- Heat deflection temp
- 220 °C
Print tips
Requires a high-temp printer: 350–400 °C nozzle, 150+ °C chamber, 150+ °C bed. Anneal for full properties. Dry thoroughly.
Safety & food contact
High processing temps — use only on a printer rated for PEI/ULTEM.
Food contact: PEI is biocompatible; verify grade.
Common uses
Aerospace interiorsElectrical enclosuresMedical devicesIndustrial tooling
Pros
- High strength
- Heat resistant to 200+ °C
- Flame retardant
- Biocompatible
Cons
- Very expensive
- Needs specialized printer
- Difficult
- Niche
Typical price: $400–800/kg