Filled PTFE combines the inherent benefits of pure PTFE—such as low friction and chemical resistance—with enhanced mechanical properties due to the addition of fillers like glass fibers, carbon, or bronze. These fillers improve wear resistance, compressive strength, and stability under extreme conditions while maintaining PTFE's temperature resilience. Key mechanical attributes include moderate tensile strength (20.7–34.5 MPa), high elongation (200–400%), and improved hardness (5.9–6.5 HV). However, challenges like creep under constant stress persist, which can be mitigated through design adaptations like bonded rubber cores in seals. Filled PTFE is ideal for high-load, high-temperature applications where durability and low friction are critical.
Key Points Explained:
1. Enhanced Wear Resistance and Hardness
- Filled PTFE incorporates materials like glass, graphite, or bronze to reduce wear and increase surface hardness (5.9–6.5 HV).
- Retains the low coefficient of friction (~0.05–0.10) of pure PTFE, making it suitable for sliding applications.
- Example: custom ptfe parts often use filled grades to extend service life in abrasive environments.
2. Strength Under Load
- Tensile Strength: Ranges from 20.7 to 34.5 MPa, suitable for moderate-stress applications.
- Compressive Strength: Improved resistance to deformation under load, critical for seals and bearings.
- Impact Resistance: 1.5e4–1.7e4 J/m², providing toughness in dynamic applications.
3. Temperature and Chemical Stability
- Operates continuously up to +260°C, outperforming most fluoroplastics.
- Resistant to weathering, UV, and aggressive chemicals (acids, solvents).
4. Challenges: Creep and Flexibility
- Prone to permanent deformation under prolonged stress (creep). Solutions include:
- Using fillers to reduce cold flow.
- Reinforcing with bonded rubber cores in seals.
- Low stiffness (Young’s modulus: 0.058–0.0801 × 10⁶ psi) limits high-precision applications.
5. Specialized Properties
- Plastic Memory: Can revert to original shape after deformation if heated.
- Electrical Resistance: Ideal for insulating components.
6. Applications
- High-load bearings, chemically resistant liners, and low-friction seals.
- Custom parts requiring a balance of durability and non-stick properties.
Filled PTFE’s versatility makes it a top choice for industries demanding reliability under harsh conditions, though designers must account for its creep behavior and moderate stiffness.
Summary Table:
| Property | Value/Description |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 20.7–34.5 MPa |
| Elongation | 200–400% |
| Hardness (HV) | 5.9–6.5 |
| Coefficient of Friction | 0.05–0.10 |
| Compressive Strength | Improved resistance to deformation |
| Temperature Range | Up to +260°C |
| Creep Resistance | Moderate; mitigated with fillers or bonded rubber cores |
| Applications | Seals, bearings, liners, and custom parts for high-load/chemical environments |
Upgrade your high-performance applications with KINTEK's precision-filled PTFE components—engineered for durability, chemical resistance, and low friction. Whether you need standard or custom solutions for semiconductor, medical, or industrial use, our expertise ensures optimal performance. Contact us today to discuss your project requirements!