Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a synthetic fluoropolymer of tetrafluoroethylene.
Being hydrophobic, non-wetting, high density and resistant to high temperatures, PTFE is an incredibly versatile material with a wide variety of applications, though it's perhaps best-known for its non-stick properties.
Advantages of using PTFE filled compounds
- Excellent chemical resistance
- Wide range of service temperature
- Excellent dielectric properties
- Non stick, low friction
- No embrittlement or ageing
- Smooth surface finish can be achieved
- Non wetting
- Outstanding corrosion protection
- Electrical insulation
- High thermal stability and flame resistance
- Resistance to weathering
- Food grade compliancy
Why should I choose PTFE?
PTFE is an incredibly versatile material used across many industries, thanks to its stable and durable characteristics and affordability.
It is an Excellent Electrical Insulator
It is used frequently as an insulator for wiring and cable, particularly in computer applications, since it is an excellent electric insulator and has a high melting point.
It has Low Friction
It's low friction also makes it a popular material in mechanical engineering applications. It is regularly used for slide bearings, slide plates, gears and other working parts where sliding action takes place.
It is Resistant to Wear
Due to its non-reactivity as well as its tolerance for high temperatures, PTFE is also often used in industrial pipes and hose assemblies in which chemicals and acids are used.
It is Tolerant of High Temperatures
Due to its non-reactivity as well as its tolerance for high temperatures, PTFE is also often used in industrial pipes and hose assemblies in which chemicals and acids are used.
It is FDA Approved & Food Safe
This makes it an excellent choice for applications in food manufacturing and packaging, particularly since the material is food grade compliant and resistant to staining.
It is Chemically Resistant & Inert
Combined with its high temperature resistance PTFE is extremely chemically resistant and chemically inert making it an ideal material for sealing components in chemically aggressive applications.
It is Affordable
PTFE is one of the most affordable fluoropolymers on the market, and has one of the best performance to price ratios.
It is often used in construction projects for structures such as car parks, supermarkets and bridges, since it enables affordable structure expansion without worrying about strain being put on rigid elements. Plus, its resistance against weather damage and general wear and tear make it an extremely long-lasting material.
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Let's Talk
Got a question? Get in touch with our team of experts.
Our team are happy to answer any questions you have about the chemical compatibility of the materials we provide. Fill in your details below and we'll be in touch.
| Virgin PTFE | "Virgin PTFE" (PTFE without a filler) is one of the most chemically inert materials known and is used in many different applications and industries. |
| Glass Filled PTFE | Virgin PTFE with 25% Glass fiber filler which dramatically increases compressive strength and lowers deformation under load. |
| Bronze Filled PTFE | The addition of Bronze to PTFE gives better dimensional stability and lowers creep, cold flow and wear. |
| Carbon Filled PTFE | The addition of Carbon Fibre to PTFE increases the compressive strength and wear resistance. It provides good thermal conductivity and low permeability. |
| Stainless Steel Filled PTFE | The material is extremely hard wearing, has excellent strength and stability under extreme loads and elevated temperatures whilst still retaining the low coefficient of friction of conventional PTFE. |
Filled PTFE's maintain their chemical and high temperature characteristics, while fillers improve mechanical strength, stability, and wear resistance.
AFT Fluorotec can manufacturer components using over 500 grades of PTFE and we can help you decide which solution will work best for your project.
These are just some examples of common grades of PTFE. If you have a specific requirement in mind (or perhaps you're not sure if PTFE is what you need), then contact us to chat with our specialists. We work with clients every day to help them discover the best solutions for their projects.
