Q: I’m designing laboratory equipment that will be utilized at 325-400F and I need screws that have immunity to organics and low concentrations of acids, as well be FDA approved. Would that be a ceramic?
A: You probably don’t want a ceramic screw. Though they are corrosion resistant and offer high purity, they are typically reserved for extreme temperatures. In addition, ceramics typically aren’t FDA approved. For your situation, you might want to consider PEEK screws. They offer an economic solution to temperatures up to 500F. In addition PEEK screws are an FDA approved. PEEK screws also offer excellent corrosion resistance to organics, salts, oils, and moderate concentration acids and bases. Depending on the strength you need, PEEK may be an excellent choice and are also available in reinforced glass and carbon if extra strength is needed.