alternative energy
Alternative Energy
The demand for all energy sources is rapidly increasing. Alternative energy methods have supplemented the use of fossil fuels for over 125 years. Growing concerns about carbon emissions and global warming encourage innovations for new energy solutions and materials.
Victrex has served the energy industry for over 20 years, and is the undisputed world leader in manufacturing PEEK polymers to create operational efficiencies in energy production.
Nuclear
VICTREX® PEEK™ polymers offer a reliable substitute for many traditional materials because of their unique radiation resistance capabilities. Thermoplastic materials exposed to high doses of electromagnetic or particle-based ionizing radiation, specifically gamma rays, can become brittle. However, our PEEK polymers have an energetically stable chemical structure, excellent electrical properties in a wide range of temperatures and superior mechanical strength.
This ensures that applications such as pump components, impellers, seals, connectors and cable coverings made from VICTREX PEEK operate better than those made from traditional materials.
Hydropower
VICTREX PEEK polymers retain a high level of mechanical properties when exposed to steam or water at elevated temperatures and pressures, making them well suited for hydropower applications. PEEK can be utilized in applications that demand low wear and friction, but with high load capacity.
For example, VICTREX PEEK was applied to the surface of large hydro-generator bearings. It improved load capacity by 50% and reduced friction by approximately 40%. Excellent durability and sliding properties provide value in hydropower applications including bearings, valves, pump components, liners and thrust washers. Benefits include long-term cost savings due to minimized downtime for maintenance and less frequent part replacement.
Wind
VICTREX PEEK polymers can be applied to various wind technologies to create products that are more corrosion and high temperature resistant, light-weight, durable and stable. Most notably, wind turbine products benefit from PEEK’s strength and wear properties. VICTREX PEEK polymers also prevent galvanic corrosion, and are an exceptional insulator for generators, motors or transformers. The use of VICTREX PEEK polymers helps extend equipment life, reduce product failures, improve thermal performance and material strength.
Geothermal
Geothermal energy utilizes superheated water and steam produced from within the Earth. It is a clean, renewable resource that provides energy in discreet global locations. It can be used for electricity production, for direct use purposes, and for home heating efficiency with the use of geothermal heat pumps.
Similar to the Oil and Gas market, the geothermal energy industry faces technical challenges including high temperature, high pressure, and corrosive conditions that demand material solutions for both downhole and surface equipment. VICTREX PEEK polymers have superior temperature performance as well as high pressure, chemical and corrosion resistance, which make them the most effective thermoplastic material for use in the constant presence of hot water and steam. VICTREX PEEK’s proven performance in Oil and Gas and other industrial applications make it well-suited for the needs of the geothermal market.
Solar
VICTREX PEEK polymers can be blended with other products to provide a UV-resistant solar energy solution. Solar product applications benefit from PEEK's high temperature, chemical, and wear resistant properties.
