PTFE washers come in a wide range of standard sizes to accommodate diverse industrial and commercial applications. They are available in metric thicknesses from 0.5mm to 12mm and imperial dimensions spanning diameters of 0.093 to 16 inches with thicknesses from 0.0002 to 0.125 inches. These variations allow for precise selection based on load distribution needs, space constraints, and chemical/thermal requirements across industries like plumbing, electronics, and food processing. The material's unique properties make it suitable for applications requiring chemical resistance, temperature tolerance, or low friction.
Key Points Explained:
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Metric Size Range
- PTFE washers are commonly available in millimeter-based thickness increments:
- 0.5mm to 5mm in 0.5mm steps (e.g., 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2mm)
- Larger standard sizes at 6mm, 8mm, 10mm, and 12mm
- These sizes cater to European/Asian markets and precision engineering needs where metric measurements dominate.
- PTFE washers are commonly available in millimeter-based thickness increments:
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Imperial Size Range
- For North American applications, sizes follow inch-based dimensions:
- Diameters: 0.093" (≈2.36mm) to 16" (≈406mm)
- Thicknesses: Ultra-thin 0.0002" (0.005mm) up to 0.125" (3.175mm)
- Example: A 1/4" (0.25") diameter washer with 0.03" thickness is typical for plumbing fittings.
- For North American applications, sizes follow inch-based dimensions:
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Application-Driven Selection
- Thin washers (0.5-2mm): Used in electronics for insulation or as ptfe brush cleaning tool components.
- Medium thickness (3-6mm): Ideal for mechanical assemblies to distribute bolt loads.
- Thick washers (8-12mm): Employed in high-pressure systems or corrosive chemical processing.
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Special Considerations
- Non-standard sizes can be custom-machined for unique requirements.
- Thinner washers (<1mm) may require reinforcement in high-stress applications.
- Diameter-to-thickness ratios affect performance – wider diameters often pair with greater thicknesses for stability.
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Industry-Specific Preferences
- Food industry: Favors 3-5mm washers for durability during sanitation.
- Semiconductor manufacturing: Uses sub-1mm washers for delicate equipment.
- Automotive: Combines multiple thinner washers for vibration resistance.
The extensive size range ensures compatibility with everything from miniature electronics to large-scale industrial equipment, while maintaining PTFE's signature resistance to heat, chemicals, and wear.
Summary Table:
| Measurement System | Thickness Range | Diameter Range | Common Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metric | 0.5mm – 12mm | Varies by manufacturer | Precision engineering, electronics |
| Imperial | 0.0002" – 0.125" | 0.093" – 16" | Plumbing, automotive, food processing |
Key Selection Factors:
- Thin (0.5–2mm): Electronics/insulation
- Medium (3–6mm): Mechanical assemblies
- Thick (8–12mm): High-pressure systems
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