Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) plastic is strong and versatile. You can also hear this material referred to as Teflon, a brand name of DuPont. This material has many uses, especially in the design and fabrication of high-tech products. When companies need products requiring superior performance, PTFE is an ideal choice.

PTFE is an excellent thermal and electrical insulator with low friction. This material is also non-toxic and chemically inert, making it the go-to plastic within food and electronics industries.

Polymershapes offers innovative fabrication solutions, incredibly fast turnaround times, and superior results. Before you choose PTFE for your next project, here’s more information about polytetrafluoroethylene’s uses and industries relying on this material.

The Properties of PTFE

A pan made with polytetrafluoroethylene plastic

Plastic molecules contain hydrogen atoms bonded with a carbon chain. Polytetrafluoroethylene plastic is different because it contains fluorine instead of hydrogen. This one change results in a material offering a wide range of qualities.

You’ll find PTFE used to make many things including bearings, bushings, enclosures, packaging equipment, valves, and fittings.

Here are the properties that make PTFE a versatile material:

  • Extreme Thermal Resistance: Capable of withstanding temperatures up to 500° F (260° C)
  • Chemical Resistance: Resistant to almost all chemicals and solvents
  • Abrasion Resistance: An incredibly tough material that’s resistant to abrasion and wear
  • Electrical Insulation: An excellent electrical insulator
  • Non-Stick Surface: Polytetrafluoroethylene plastic has a very low friction surface, making it ideal for applications requiring smooth-moving parts.
  • Non-Wetting: PTFE is a “hydrophobic” material that doesn’t absorb water. This quality makes PTFE ideal for situations where water or moisture is a potential issue.
  • Non-Toxic: This material’s non-toxicity makes it ideal for food processing and packaging.
  • Modifiable: A Teflon fabrication company can modify PTFE with fillers and additives like carbon, glass fiber, or graphite to improve its properties for specific applications.
An engine with fuel lines made with PTFE

PTFE is a tough and abrasion-resistant plastic that many businesses rely on. The automotive industry depends on PTFE for parts, including fuel lines, seals, gaskets, and O-rings. Construction companies use PTFE for a low-friction surface. The electrical industry depends on this plastic for flexible circuit boards, insulation, and semiconductor components.

Polytetrafluoroethylene plastic is ideal for a variety of industries, including:

  • Automotive
  • Aerospace
  • Construction
  • Chemical processing
  • Electrical
  • Engineering
  • Food and beverage
  • Machining
  • Medical
  • Milling
  • Mining
  • Oil and gas
Polytetrafluoroethylene uses for storing chemicals

Polymershapes knows the importance of finding the right material for your project. Our high-quality Polytetrafluoroethylene meets and exceeds industry standards. We offer PTFE plastic in various shapes and sizes to meet your needs, including film and flexible tubing.

Polymershapes also offers incredibly innovative solutions. We proudly serve companies in many industries, each with distinctly different needs and requirements. Plus, we have a top-notch team of knowledgeable and helpful professionals. Our sales and customer service specialists are here when you have questions or concerns.

Count on Polymershapes for your company’s fabrication needs. Let our company’s over 70 years of industry-leading heritage help you find ideal plastic fabrication solutions. Contact us to discuss your company’s PTFE application requirements and project options. Request a quote today.

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