PTFE is a highly crystalline, high-performance thermoplastic polymer designed for demanding applications requiring exceptional chemical resistance, temperature resistance and low friction. PTFE belongs to the fluoropolymer family, a group of plastics containing fluorine that offer outstanding resistance to aggressive chemicals and harsh operating environments.

To improve wear resistance and dimensional stability, PTFE can be modified with fillers such as glass fiber, carbon, graphite or bronze. Other fluoropolymers include PVF, PVDF, PCTFE and ECTFE, each offering specific performance characteristics for specialized applications.

Chemical Designation

Polytetrafluoroethylene

Abbreviation

PTFE

Natural Color and Additives

• White, opaque
• Available in filled and modified grades

Available Forms

• Rods
• Sheets
• Hollow bars
• Film and foil
• Tubing and hoses
• O-rings
• Profiles
• Finished products, machined or molded

Key Properties

• Excellent temperature resistance
• Retains toughness at low temperatures (down to approximately -160°C)
• Extremely low coefficient of friction
• Outstanding chemical resistance
• Very low moisture absorption
• Resistant to microbial attack
• High density
• Hydrolysis-resistant, including exposure to superheated steam
• Excellent electrical and dielectric properties
• Excellent weather and UV resistance
• Not inherently wear-resistant under abrasive conditions

Typical Applications

PTFE is widely used in:

• Mechanical engineering
• Automotive applications
• Conveying and material handling systems
• Electrical engineering
• Precision engineering
• Food processing equipment
• Medical technology
• Chemical processing industry

Typical Products

• Plain bearings
• Electrical components for aerospace and defence applications
• Wear strips and sliding elements
• Pipes and tubing
• Seals and sealing elements
• Machine components
• Electrical insulation materials
• Gaskets
• Non-stick coatings
• Filters

Typical Benefits

• Exceptional resistance to aggressive chemicals
• Reliable performance across a very wide temperature range
• Outstanding sliding and release properties
• Excellent electrical insulation characteristics
• Suitable for highly demanding industrial and process applications
• Long service life in corrosive environments

Considerations

PTFE offers superior chemical resistance and low friction but has lower mechanical strength and abrasion resistance than many engineering plastics. For applications involving significant wear or mechanical loads, filled PTFE grades may provide improved performance.