Extruded PTFE rods are renowned for their exceptionally low friction properties, making them a preferred material in applications where minimal friction is critical. Their coefficient of friction is comparable to ice on ice, and they exhibit non-adhesive surfaces, high surface resistance, and excellent dimensional stability. These properties, combined with their non-toxic and non-combustible nature, make them ideal for sliding bearings, gaskets, seals, and other precision applications. Additionally, PTFE rods can be machined into complex shapes, further enhancing their versatility in industrial and mechanical uses.
Key Points Explained:
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Low Coefficient of Friction
- Extruded PTFE rods have an exceptionally low coefficient of friction, nearly as low as ice on ice.
- This property makes them ideal for applications requiring minimal friction, such as sliding bearings, gaskets, and seals.
- The friction coefficient can vary based on pressure, sliding velocity, and temperature, with lower friction typically observed under high pressure and low velocities.
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Non-Adhesive Surface & High Resistance
- PTFE rods feature a non-adhesive surface where solid materials cannot stick, enhancing their performance in friction-reducing applications.
- They exhibit high surface resistance (>2×10¹³ Ω) and excellent arc resistance (>165 seconds), making them suitable for electrical and mechanical uses.
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Dimensional Stability & Machinability
- PTFE rods maintain dimensional stability, ensuring precise machining results when turned or milled into complex shapes.
- Both standard and glass-filled PTFE rods can be machined using conventional methods, allowing customization for specific applications.
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Environmental & Safety Benefits
- PTFE is non-combustible in air, physiologically inert, and odorless, making it safe for human contact and environmentally friendly.
- Its water absorption rate is below 0.1%, contributing to its durability and resistance to degradation in humid conditions.
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Manufacturing Process Considerations
- Extruded PTFE rods are produced via ram extrusion, which involves compacting and sintering PTFE powder in a heated die tube.
- While this method allows continuous production of rods and tubes, the resulting parts may have slightly lower performance compared to compression-molded equivalents.
These properties make extruded PTFE rods a versatile and reliable choice for industries requiring low-friction, high-performance materials. Have you considered how these characteristics could optimize your specific application needs?
Summary Table:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Coefficient of Friction | As low as ice on ice; ideal for bearings, seals, and gaskets. |
| Non-Adhesive Surface | Prevents material sticking; enhances performance in friction-critical uses. |
| Dimensional Stability | Maintains precision under machining, enabling complex custom shapes. |
| Safety & Environment | Non-toxic, non-combustible, and physiologically inert for safe applications. |
| Manufacturing Process | Ram extrusion enables continuous production but may slightly reduce performance. |
Optimize your low-friction applications with KINTEK’s precision PTFE solutions! Our extruded PTFE rods are engineered for superior performance in sliding bearings, seals, and custom-machined components. Whether you need prototypes or high-volume orders, our expertise in PTFE fabrication ensures reliability and efficiency. Contact us today to discuss how our PTFE rods can enhance your project!