PTFE

Description

PTFE is not a rubber compound, but a white thermoplastic resin which can be formed into various shapes by either machining or molding. It is a premium grade material which is often specified in harsh chemical environments where no rubber material is suitable as it is impervious to virtually all fluids and gases. PTFE exhibits very low moisture absorption and can withstand extreme high and low temperatures. It also provides the lowest coefficient of friction of any seal material. One major drawback to using PTFE is its tendency to deform under a continuous load, a phenomenon commonly known as creep or cold flow. Loading PTFE with fillers such as bronze, graphite, glass, or molybdenum disulfide can counteract this behavior substantially. PTFE also has relatively poor elasticity compared to other sealing materials.

Composition

PTFE

Physical Properties*

  Excellent Good Fair Poor
Abrasion resistance      
Compression Set      
Elongation      
Flame resistance      
Gas permeability      
Low temperature flexibility      
Tear resistance      
Tensile strength      

Chemical Resistance*

  Excellent Good Fair Poor
Alcohols      
Aldehydes      
Alipathic hydrocarbons      
Alipathic solvents      
Anhydrous ammonia      
Concentrated acids      
Concentrated Bases      
Ketones      
Petroleum oils and fuels      
Steam      
Weather      

Operating Temperature

-100 to 500 °F
*Excellent, good, fair and poor are intended to serve as general guidelines only. Actual testing in the application environment is always recommended.