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Vespel®

Vespel® Polyimide Parts and Shapes

DuPont™ Vespel® is a unique family of high-performance polyimide materials engineered for demanding applications that require a combination of extreme heat resistance, low friction, excellent wear performance, and high strength. Unlike many plastics, Vespel® parts can operate in temperatures ranging from cryogenic levels up to 300°C (572°F) continuously, and even higher for short durations.

It is widely used in aerospace, automotive, semiconductor, and industrial machinery where traditional materials fail—such as in bushings, bearings, seals, thrust washers, and insulators. Vespel® offers metal-like strength with the lightweight, self-lubricating advantages of a polymer, often eliminating the need for external lubrication or frequent replacement.

Its ability to maintain stability under mechanical stress, resist chemicals, and perform in vacuum or dry environments makes it a trusted solution in mission-critical applications.

Our Products

Applications

Key Features

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Extreme Temperature Resistance

Operates from cryogenic temperatures up to 300°C (572°F) continuously.

Can withstand short-term excursions beyond 400°C (752°F) without significant loss of properties.
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Low Friction & Superior Wear Resistance

Offers outstanding tribological performance in both dry and lubricated environments, reducing wear on interacting components.It has high (Pressure x Velocity)PV value.

Self-lubricating properties make it ideal for applications where conventional lubrication is not feasible.
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High Strength and Durability

Retains mechanical strength under high loads and temperatures.

Exhibits excellent creep resistance and dimensional stability over time.
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Chemical and Environmental Stability

Resistant to fuels, solvents, oils, and most chemicals, ensuring long-term performance in harsh environments.

Non-corrosive and unaffected by UV radiation.
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Electrical Insulation

High dielectric strength and excellent insulating properties make it suitable for electronic and electrical applications.
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Lightweight

Reduces weight by up to 50% compared to metals, contributing to energy savings and efficiency.
Temperature Resistance of DuPont™ Vespel®

DuPont™ Vespel® is renowned for its exceptional thermal stability, making it a top choice for high-temperature applications where other plastics or metals may degrade or fail.

Grades

Vespel® Polyimide Grades
Grade Composition Key Features Typical Applications
SP-1 Virgin polyimide (unfilled) Maximum thermal resistance, excellent electrical insulation. Electrical insulators, semiconductor components.
SP-21 15% Graphite Enhanced wear and friction properties. Bearings, seals, and bushings.
SP-22 40% Graphite High wear resistance, lower friction in dynamic applications. High-load industrial components.
SP-211 15% Graphite, 10% PTFE Excellent self-lubricating properties. Low-friction applications, engine parts.
SP-3 MoS2 Filled High strength, exceptional thermal resistance. Aerospace and structural applications.
SP-2515 Proprietary blend Extreme wear resistance and chemical compatibility. High-performance automotive and industrial equipment parts.
SP-202 15% Graphite, 10% MoS₂ Superior lubricating properties, reduced wear under pressure. High-load, low-speed industrial applications.