International distributor Biesterfeld and science-based company Solvay are expanding their joint portfolio. As of 1 January 2023, Biesterfeld will be responsible for the distribution of the high-performance plastics KetaSpire and AvaSpire. The new agreement applies to all of the EMEA region with the exception of Italy.
KetaSpire PEEK and AvaSpire PAEK are engineering thermoplastics whose notable property is their exceptionally high heat resistance. The materials retain their thermal stability at temperatures of up to 315 °C and long-term thermal oxidation stability at up to 240 °C. The products offer outstanding chemical resistance and high fatigue resistance. KetaSpire and AvaSpire also have inherent flame resistance and are extremely resistant to wear.
These properties make both product families an effective alternative to metal in some of the most severe end-use environments. In the mobility segment, the materials are especially popular in applications under the hood and in the drivetrain. Typical medical applications include reusable, sterilisable surgical instruments and devices. KetaSpire and AvaSpire are also used in the semiconductor industry (for example in wafer carriers, etch rings, pins and fasteners) as well as in thrust washers, sealing rings and bushings.
"With their unique combination of properties, the KetaSpire and AvaSpire product families are the ideal solution for a wide range of demanding applications," says Christian Bertram, Business Manager High-Performance Polymers, Biesterfeld Plastic. "We're excited to be able to offer our customers added value with these new products and delighted at the confidence shown in us by Solvay."
"Biesterfeld and Solvay have a highly successful partnership that goes back decades," adds Dries Steijnen, Sales Director Channel Partners EMEA. "We're delighted to be continuing our strategic partnership and we believe Biesterfeld will place both product families optimally on the market."
