HIGH-PERFORMANCE MATERIAL

PTFE (Teflon®)

The most chemically inert and slippery plastic. Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), famous as Teflon®, offers an unmatched combination of chemical resistance, low friction, and high temperature stability.

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A medical device prototype, an area where PTFE's chemical resistance is vital

The Ultimate in Chemical Resistance & Non-Stick

PTFE is a fluoropolymer, a semi-crystalline thermoplastic with a highly stable molecular structure that gives it truly unique properties. It is often considered the benchmark for chemical and temperature resistance among plastics.

Exceptional Chemical Resistance

PTFE is almost completely chemically inert. It is resistant to nearly all acids, bases, and organic solvents, making it ideal for the harshest chemical environments.

Very Low Friction

It has one of the lowest coefficients of friction of any solid material. This gives it a "slippery," non-stick surface, making it excellent for bearings, seals, and sliding components.

Wide Temperature Range

PTFE performs well across an extremely broad temperature range, from cryogenic levels (below -100°C) up to 260°C (500°F) continuously.

Machining & Applications

PTFE is not processable by standard injection molding due to its extremely high melt viscosity. It is typically processed by compression molding or ram extrusion into billets, from which parts are then CNC machined. Machining PTFE requires specific techniques due to its softness and low friction, which can lead to burrs and dimensional instability if not handled correctly.

Seals & Gaskets: The most common application due to its low friction, chemical resistance, and wide temperature range.
Bearings & Bushings: Used in low-friction, unlubricated applications.
Chemical Handling: Components for valves, pumps, and piping in aggressive chemical processing environments.
Electrical Insulators: Excellent dielectric properties make it suitable for high-frequency electrical insulation.

A complex fluidic component, illustrating applications where PTFE's chemical resistance is vital

PTFE (Teflon®) FAQ

What is the difference between PTFE and PEEK?

Both are high-performance plastics. PTFE has better chemical resistance and lower friction. PEEK has significantly higher mechanical strength, stiffness, and creep resistance, especially at elevated temperatures. PEEK is often chosen when a part needs to be strong AND chemically resistant, while PTFE is chosen primarily for its extreme chemical inertness and slipperiness.

Can PTFE be colored?

Natural PTFE is white and opaque. While pigments can be added, colored PTFE is less common as it can slightly affect its chemical inertness. For critical applications, unpigmented PTFE is preferred.

Are there different grades of PTFE?

Yes. Unfilled PTFE is the most basic form. Filled grades often contain glass fiber, carbon fiber, or bronze to improve wear resistance, stiffness, or thermal conductivity, though these fillers can slightly reduce its chemical resistance.