RADEL® TR501 Plate

Radel® is polyphenylsulfone (PPSU), the toughest member of the amorphous sulfone family and the one specified when a high-temperature plastic also has to absorb abuse. Tensile strength at yield is 10,100 psi with 60% elongation at break, tensile modulus 340,000 psi, flexural modulus 350,000 psi and notched Izod impact of 13.0 ft-lb/in - an impact figure that puts it in a different class from polysulfone or PEI. Heat deflection temperature is 405°F at 264 psi with a Vicat softening point of 424°F. It is rated UL94 V-0, has dielectric strength of 360 V/mil, and absorbs 0.37% water in 24 hours and 1.1% at saturation. Hydrolytic stability is outstanding.

That hydrolytic stability is why PPSU dominates reusable medical hardware: sterilization trays and cases, instrument handles and bodies, trial implants and dental components survive repeated steam autoclaving without the property loss that ends the life of lesser polymers. It also serves aircraft interior parts, bezels, plumbing manifolds and hot-water fittings, and pigmented blue plate is widely used for tray identification. Machine with sharp carbide tooling, positive rake, light feeds and generous coolant, and anneal before finishing to relieve stress. Limitations: poor resistance to MEK and certain chlorinated hydrocarbons, susceptibility to environmental stress cracking with some solvents and cleaners, and no UV stability outdoors. Confirm approvals for the specific grade supplied.