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MATERIAL SPOTLIGHT - PTFE (POLYTETRAFLUOROETHYLENE)
extreme loads and elevated temperatures whilst still retaining the low coefficient of friction of conventional PTFE.
Processing PTFE Because PTFE is a thermoplastic and due to its high viscosity, it cannot be processed using conventional polymer processing techniques. PTFE is processed by cold shaping and followed by heat treatment (sintering) during which polymer particles fuse to form a solid molding.
PTFE is highly resistant to corrosion due to its From interplanetary deep space missions to sealing • Non wetting chemical inertness. Unfortunately, that same the fittings between the faucets and pipes in your • Outstanding corrosion protection chemical inertness prevents PTFE from being kitchen sink, Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) can be • Electrical insulation cross-linked like elastomers and is subject to found being used in almost every aspect of our daily • High thermal stability and flame resistance the phenomenon of cold-flow – otherwise known lives. It was discovered accidentally April 6, 1938 • Resistance to weathering as “creep”. To reduce and diminish cold-flow, by Dr. Roy J. Plunkett while running experiments • Food grade compliancy additives are introduced during the preparation of utilizing gases for freon refrigeration. The white PTFE compounds. Fillers, such as glass fiber found waxy substance that had spontaneously polymerized 5 Common Grades of PTFE in Durlon® 9000 and 9000N gaskets, not only was found to have some remarkable properties. PTFE Virgin PTFE reduce creep but also maintain chemical inertness turned out to be a resin impervious to almost every “Virgin PTFE” (PTFE without a filler) is one of the against aggressive and caustic chemicals but are known solvent with a near frictionless surface which most chemically inert materials known and is used still considered safe for use by food, drug and no substance would stick to. in many different applications and industries. medical services.
The unique properties of PTFE lend itself well Glass Filled PTFE Read more about our PTFE gasket materials here. Virgin PTFE with 25% Glass fiber filler which for use in a variety of industrial, manufacturing, dramatically increases compressive strength and and engineering facilities. The superb chemical lowers deformation under load. resistance and tolerance to vast temperature gradients has not only improved the efficiency of Bronze Filled PTFE many industries but the safety for the employees The addition of Bronze to PTFE gives better that work around those conditions as well. dimensional stability and lowers creep, cold flow and wear. 12 Advantages of Carbon Filled PTFE Using PTFE Filled Compounds The addition of Carbon Fiber to PTFE increases • Excellent chemical resistance the compressive strength and wear resistance. • Wide range of service temperature It provides good thermal conductivity and low • Excellent dielectric properties permeability. • Non-stick, low friction Stainless Steel Filled PTFE • No embrittlement or ageing The material is extremely hard wearing, • Smooth surface finish can be achieved has excellent strength and stability under
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