The shift from metal to advanced polymers is no longer a futuristic vision. It’s a pragmatic decision driven by technical and economic realities. From aerospace to packaging, the materials we choose increasingly determine not just product performance, but the efficiency, cost, and sustainability of entire manufacturing chains. In this context, super polymers and reinforced composites are emerging as the most viable alternatives for applications once thought to require metal. 

But choosing the right material isn't just about specs on a data sheet. It’s about matching performance to context, compliance to regulations, and durability to business goals. 

Materials that shape performance: what to look for 

When assessing a high-performance material for functional components, engineers typically ask: 

• Will it withstand thermal and mechanical loads over time? 

• Is it chemically compatible with the working environment? 

• Can it replace metal without compromise? 

• Does it meet specific regulatory requirements? 

This is where materials like Carbon PEEK, Carbon PA PRO, PEEK, and ULTEM™ 9085 come into play. 

Carbon PEEK: for maximum stability in critical environments 

Carbon fiber-reinforced PEEK is one of the most trusted materials for components requiring thermal resistance up to 260°C, excellent chemical inertness, and structural rigidity. It's ideal for aerospace brackets, motorsport ducts, and components exposed to high vacuum and outgassing conditions. 

Its low moisture absorption and high dimensional stability make it also suitable for precision applications where tight tolerances must be maintained under thermal cycling. 

Carbon PA PRO: the strength of metal without the weight 

With tensile strength values reaching 171 MPa, Carbon PA PRO is engineered for demanding industrial applications where mechanical stress, abrasion, or impact are key concerns. It's often used to replace aluminum or steel in fixtures, jigs, and housings, especially where lightweighting is an added benefit. 

Use case examples include: 

• Load-bearing components in robotic arms 

• Structural parts in industrial automation machinery 

• Non-metallic fan blades for energy sector applications 

Carbon PA PRO combines strength with adaptability, offering a more cost-effective and flexible alternative to machined metal in small and medium production batches. 

PEEK: sterility, chemical resistance, and long-term reliability 

Virgin PEEK is widely recognized in the pharmaceutical and energy industries, not only for its chemical resistance, but also for its sterilizability, thermal stability, and long-term performance in harsh conditions. It retains mechanical integrity even when exposed to acids, solvents, high-pressure steam, and hydrocarbons, making it an optimal material for both contact parts in production lines and components used in oilfield equipment. 

Roboze clients have successfully used PEEK to: 

• Manufacture changeover trays and handling components in pharma packaging lines 

• Replace stainless steel parts exposed to aggressive clean-in-place (CIP) cycles 

• Produce insulated components and seals for oil & gas process equipment 

Thanks to its ability to combine resistance, design freedom, and high repeatability with Roboze technology, PEEK offers a strong value proposition in regulated, high-performance sectors where traditional materials fall short. 

ULTEM™ 9085: flame retardant and lightweight 

Certified for aerospace and railway applications, ULTEM™ 9085 stands out for its UL 94 V-0 flame retardancy, low smoke and toxicity, and high thermal resistance. It’s particularly useful for interior parts, cable supports, and ducting systems where regulatory compliance and weight savings are critical. 

It also supports part consolidation, reducing multi-piece assemblies into a single 3D-printed part, cutting down on fasteners and failure points. 

Why material choice is a strategic decision 

Materials are too often selected based on habit or availability. However, in additive manufacturing, the material is the product: it determines performance, cost, and certification. Selecting the right one requires careful consideration of: 

• Mechanical needs: Will the part carry load? Will it flex? Will it insulate? 

• Environmental exposure: Will it be exposed to high heat, moisture, chemicals, or pressure? 

• Compliance: Does the part need to meet ISO or EN standards? 

• Post-processing: Is surface finish or dimensional precision a key requirement? 

By integrating Roboze super polymers into your workflow, you're not just upgrading a part: you're future-proofing your production process. 

High-performance materials are no longer niche or experimental. With today’s advanced additive manufacturing systems, they’re a powerful tool for redesigning parts, processes, and even business models. 

Choosing the right material can reduce weight, cut lead times, and eliminate secondary operations, driving real-world gains in flexibility, sustainability, and competitiveness. 

To make the right call, you need more than a spec sheet. You need a partner who understands both materials and manufacturing. 

Explore the full potential of high-performance polymers: download our material selection guide or consult with a Roboze expert to evaluate your application.