The main benefit of PTFE coatings (such as Teflon) is the non-stick properties of the material, which means applications such as commercial bakeware have excellent non-stick / release properties and are very easy to clean.
We have developed a range of PTFE coating systems with many benefits to suit most applications. The function that the coating is to be used for and the operating conditions will define the selection of the right coating for the job.
In this blog, we explore some of the benefits in more detail.
NON-STICK AND RELEASE
A PTFE coating applied to a component will give excellent non-stick/release properties and is very easy to clean. This type of coating is also excellent at preventing both hot and cold products from permanently sticking to the substrate and therefore is widely used in the cookware, confectionery, food processing and bakery industries. PTFE coatings are also used for non-stick in the packaging, heat sealing, moulding, automotive, aerospace, chemical and pharmaceutical industries.
NON-WETTING
PTFE surfaces are hydrophobic and oleophobic, and will not readily wet. This allows the material to self-clean. For the semiconductor industry, this property is vital as it allows all chemical media to run off and be collected.
TEMPERATURE RESISTANCE
PTFE coatings can service arduous application conditions involving extremes of temperature. They can remain stable at advanced temperatures of +260°C and for short periods at +290°C. PTFE can be used on extrusion dies and sealing of plastic/elastomers where other treatments may degrade or cause clogging of molten material. These coatings can also perform at cryogenic temperatures and can remain stable at -270°C.
LOW FRICTION AND ABRASION RESISTANCE
PTFE coated surfaces reduce friction and can achieve very low coefficients of friction, typically from about 0.04 to 0.15. Where oils and grease evaporate at elevated temperatures PTFE remains and is therefore ideal for shafts, bearing surfaces, moving mechanisms, stud bolts and fasteners. For added abrasion resistance and increased wear life, this type of coating can be reinforced with the addition of fillers and also by combining with a metal sprayed base layer.
CORROSION AND CHEMICAL RESISTANCE
PTFE is inherently resistant to attack from most chemicals and when combined with other fluoropolymers such as FEP and PFA greatly enhances the life of the component. PTFE applied as a surface coating will increase the corrosion resistance of the component and can also be enhanced with the use of primers, other pre-treatments such as plating and phosphating. Stud bolts and fasteners, valves, pumps, pipe clamps and connectors all benefit from these types of coatings.
ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES
PTFE has a high dielectric strength, a low dissipation factor, insulating and high surface resistivity, giving protection and uses in many electrical applications. Our coatings can also be made to become conductive and used as an antistatic coating. Light fittings, connectors, cable guides and portable electrical equipment all benefit from PTFE.
ANTI-GALLING
PTFE coatings prevent galling and give excellent bearing properties. Mating surfaces and rotating parts benefit from this coating and help provide minimal maintenance downtime.
CASE STUDIES
Here are just some of the examples of how we have helped our clients with our PTFE coatings:
