The proven and reliable high-performance plastic for custom industrial seals
PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene, e.g., Teflon®) is a fluoropolymer that has become indispensable in engineering applications. Its outstanding properties have made it the most widely used material to date for custom seals and plain bearings.
For dynamic seals and sliding bearing components, PTFE blends known as compounds (Enduflon C) are generally used because unfilled PTFE—in contrast to UHMW-PE—is susceptible to wear.
Strictly speaking, PTFE is classified as a PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance). This calls for particularly responsible use of the material. PTFE itself is not toxic; however, its production has historically resulted in significant environmental pollution. For this reason, PTFE should be reserved for critical applications where no suitable alternatives are available.
For new designs with operating temperatures below approximately 130°C (266°F), modified UHMW-PE can generally be used as an alternative.
Properties:
- Lowest coefficient of friction of any plastic (approx. 0.1 to 0.2)
- Suitable even for completely dry-running applications
- High wear resistance when using PTFE compounds (blends)
- Exceptional chemical resistance to virtually all solvents, acids, and alkalis
- Broad operating temperature range from approximately -200°C to +200°C (-328°F to +392°F), and up to approximately 300°C (572°F) in exceptional cases
- Excellent flex fatigue resistance
- Excellent non-stick properties (“frying pan effect”)
- Physiologically safe and suitable for food-contact applications (e.g., FDA-compliant grades)
- Resistant to hot water, steam, light, and weathering
Teflon® is a registered trademark of The Chemours Company.
TFM® is a registered trademark of 3M.
