Everything You Need to Know about PTFE
What is PTFE?
PTFE is a fluoropolymer and the abbreviated name often used when referring to Polytetrafluoroethylene. After its accidental discovery by chemist Roy Plunkett in 1938, the material quickly became relied on in military circumstances. Since then, its unique properties have proven their use in a wide range of applications, including in the home under brand name Teflon™.
Properties
PTFE has a number of unique properties, including:
- Chemical inertness: Highly resistant to many chemicals and solvents.
- Low coefficient of friction: Has a very low coefficient of friction.
- High heat resistance: Can withstand high temperatures without melting or degrading.
- Electrical insulation: Has high dielectric strength, providing electrical insulation.
- Non-stick properties: Low friction surface also grants non-stick properties.
A number of these attributes are relied upon in conjunction with one another, which makes Polytetrafluoroethylene especially useful in industrial applications.
Industrial applications
A range of industries rely on PTFE for one or more of its unique properties, including:
- Industrial manufacturing: Non-stick properties are useful for moulds and other manufacturing equipment, reducing the need for constant cleaning and maintenance.
- Food manufacturing: Weigh machines, hoppers and other parts on food manufacturing components all benefit from non-stick properties as it allows for better product flow along more accurate weighing.
- Aviation and aerospace: High temperature resistance and low coefficient of friction are ideal for maximising the efficiency and reliability of components used in air and space.
- Medical: PTFE is biocompatible and is often used in medical implants and devices.
- Chemical processing: Chemical resistance is essential when lining vessels, pipes, and valves that will be exposed to corrosive substances.
- Oil and gas: Gaskets, sealing, pistons and must be resistant to high temperature, chemicals, and wear and tear.
Spray coating PTFE
At Marcote, we primarily wet spray PTFE coating, which is later baked to cure. This allows us to precisely apply the coating, giving us greater control over its thickness and ensuring we get the required coverage no matter the shape or intricacy of your part. This method allows greater individual care to be taken with each component, which is a top priority here at Marcote.
As well as quality and care, we at Marcote pride ourselves on open, reliable communication with our customers, so get in touch to find out what we can do for you.
Get in touch
