Parts manufactured from high temperature plastic PEEK polymer can also operate at temperatures up to 260°C (480°F) and have a melting point around 341°C (646°F). PEEK plastic is often used in hot water or steam environments because it maintains physical properties such as flexural and tensile strength at a high level despite the severe environment. Polyetheretherketone is often viewed as one of the engineering thermoplastics that tends to command a high price, however experienced users have come to realize the added value that PEEK materials bring, by offering the possibility of manufacturing parts that are lighter, stronger, and able to survive longer under harsh conditions.