At High Performance Polymer, we take pride in fostering innovation and supporting the next generation of engineering talent. This year, we had the privilege of sponsoring the University of Liverpool Motorsport (ULM) team in their ambitious endeavour to build an electric open-wheeled race car for the prestigious Formula Student UK competition. Our contribution included supplying high-quality PEEK fasteners—a choice driven by their unmatched properties ideal for demanding automotive applications.
PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) is renowned for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, electrical insulating properties, and inherent flame retardancy. These characteristics make it a go-to solution for high-performance and safety-critical components. For the ULM team, PEEK fasteners proved essential in securing critical elements of their car’s design, particularly the high-voltage components located behind the driver’s seat and firewall.
A Successful Outcome at Formula Student UK
This summer, the ULM team entered their 18th car in the competition, showcasing their innovative fully electric design. Meeting the rigorous safety and technical standards of Formula Student UK required components that could ensure reliability and safety. Our PEEK fasteners played a pivotal role in this regard. During the scrutineering phase, where the vehicle underwent a detailed inspection by industry experts, the car’s seat and firewall design—reinforced with our PEEK fasteners—received positive feedback and approval.
This recognition is a testament to the quality and performance of our products and highlights the collaborative spirit between High Performance Polymer and forward-thinking university teams. The ULM team’s success with their seat and firewall setup serves as a clear example of how innovative design, coupled with advanced materials, can meet stringent safety standards without compromise.
Showcasing Our Support
The ULM team shared a series of images that illustrate the integration of our PEEK fasteners within their car. The first image showcases the fasteners securing the driver’s seat, emphasising their role in ensuring both safety and comfort. The subsequent photos focus on the firewall installation, where our fasteners anchor this critical safety barrier, further underlining the importance of quality materials in high-stakes engineering environments.
In addition to providing technical support, we’re proud that the High Performance Polymer logo is displayed on the bodywork of the ULM race car, underscoring our commitment to supporting educational and technological excellence.
Continuing Our Commitment
The partnership with the University of Liverpool Motorsport team is a reflection of our dedication to empowering future engineers. Their gratitude, as expressed by ULM Deputy Team Leader Neil Umataliev, encapsulates the value of collaboration: “Your contribution has been invaluable to our team’s progress, and we hope to continue our partnership in the years to come.” As sponsors, we look forward to following their progress and participating in future events.
We believe that partnerships like these are vital for advancing both education and industry, merging real-world challenges with cutting-edge material solutions. High Performance Polymer is excited to continue supporting the ULM team and other ambitious projects that push the boundaries of engineering.