PTFE

Material Type

Plastic

Material Full Name

Polytetrafluoroethylene

Process Compatibility

Injection Molding, CNC Machining

PTFE Description

Price

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Strength

Low friction coefficient, excellent electrical insulation properties, and resistance to weathering and UV radiation.

Weakness

Limited load-bearing capabilities and can be prone to creep under sustained loads.

Common Application

Non-stick coatings for cookware, electrical insulation, gaskets, seals, bearings, and medical implants.

PTFE Properties

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a high-performance synthetic fluoropolymer known for its exceptional chemical resistance, non-stick properties, and wide temperature range stability. PTFE is a type of plastic with remarkable characteristics that make it suitable for a variety of industrial, commercial, and consumer applications such as manufacturing, aerospace, electronics, and healthcare. It is commonly recognized by the brand name "Teflon" which is often used to refer to PTFE coatings and materials. Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a versatile material, but its use in certain manufacturing processes is limited due to its unique properties.

Properties at a Glance

*Pease note: The following material properties are for reference only. Actual values may vary depending on the selected material brand.

Property	Metric	English
Density	2.1 - 2.3 g/cm³	131 - 144 lb/ft³
Shore Hardness D	55-65	55-65
Min Temp. Air	-200°C	-328°F
Max Temp. Air	260~300°C	500~572°F
Flammabilitiy, UL94	V-O	V-O
Elongation at Break	150-350%	150-350%

Chemical Properties

Excellent resistance to many chemicals, including solvents, fuels, and oils.
High resistance to hydrolysis.
Good resistance to acids and bases.
Limited resistance to strong acids and oxidizing agents.

How Additives Improve PTFE Properties

Fillers are added to PTFE to modify its properties according to specific application requirements. For example, adding glass fibers to PTFE can improve its mechanical strength and wear resistance, adding carbon fibers can enhance conductivity and provide anti-static properties. Bronze or graphite can improve thermal conductivity, enabling PTFE to withstand higher temperatures

When using fillers, it's important to be mindful that they may compromise other properties of PTFE. For instance, adding fillers like glass fibers or carbon powder can improve mechanical strength and wear resistance but might slightly reduce flexibility or impact resistance. Similarly, incorporating lubricants or anti-friction additives can enhance self-lubricating properties but may alter chemical inertness or increase friction coefficient. So, while additives can improve specific aspects, careful consideration and testing are necessary to ensure they don't compromise overall PTFE performance.

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FAQs of PTFE Materials

View our FAQ center for more questions.

Is PTFE material recyclable?

Yes, PTFE material is recyclable, but the process is challenging due to its inert nature and high melting point. Full recycling of PTFE without compromising its properties remains a significant technical challenge in the industry.

Can PTFE be used in high-temperature applications?

Yes, PTFE can be used in high-temperature applications due to its exceptional thermal stability. It can withstand temperatures ranging from -200°C to 260°C (-328°F to 500°F) continuously and even higher temperatures for short durations without significant degradation.

Is PTFE material safe for food contact?

Yes, PTFE is considered safe for food contact. It is inert and non-toxic, meaning it does not react with food or release harmful chemicals when in contact with food. However, it's important to note that PTFE should not be heated above its recommended temperature range during food processing to avoid potential health risks associated with overheating.