PTFE and nylon are widely used in bushings and thrust washers due to their unique mechanical properties. PTFE excels in high-load applications (750–1,000 psi) with an extremely low coefficient of friction (0.05–0.2) and superior self-lubrication, making it ideal for long bearing life. However, it has moderate tensile strength (10–40 MPa) and can creep under constant pressure. Nylon handles lower loads (400 psi) with good self-lubrication and a moderately low friction coefficient. It offers better tensile strength (280–350 kg/cm²) and elongation (200–400%) but has a shorter bearing life. Both materials are durable but differ in wear resistance, flexibility, and environmental adaptability.
Key Points Explained:
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Load Capacity
- PTFE: Handles higher loads (750–1,000 psi), suitable for heavy-duty applications like aerospace or automotive thrust washers.
- Nylon: Lower load capacity (400 psi), better for moderate-load scenarios such as plumbing or construction bushings.
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Friction and Lubrication
- PTFE: Extremely low coefficient of friction (0.05–0.2) and superior self-lubrication, reducing wear in high-movement parts.
- Nylon: Moderately low friction with good self-lubrication, but may require occasional external lubrication in demanding environments.
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Tensile Strength and Flexibility
- PTFE: Moderate tensile strength (10–40 MPa) but high elongation (200–400%), allowing flexibility under stress. Prone to creep, which can be mitigated with bonded rubber cores.
- Nylon: Higher tensile strength (280–350 kg/cm²) and similar elongation, offering better resistance to deformation under static loads.
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Durability and Bearing Life
- PTFE: High planned bearing life due to excellent wear resistance and weathering performance, ideal for harsh environments.
- Nylon: Average bearing life; more susceptible to wear in abrasive conditions but performs well in standard applications.
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Additional Mechanical Properties
- PTFE: Low hardness (Shore D50–55), high fracture toughness (1.2–1.64 ksi/in^0.5), and Young’s modulus (0.058–0.0801 × 10^6 psi).
- Nylon: Higher hardness and impact strength, balancing rigidity and resilience for dynamic loads.
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Environmental Adaptability
- Both materials resist chemicals and moisture, but PTFE outperforms in extreme temperatures and corrosive settings, while nylon is more cost-effective for general use.
For purchasers, the choice hinges on application demands: PTFE for high-performance, low-maintenance systems, and nylon for budget-friendly, robust solutions in less extreme conditions.
Summary Table:
| Property | PTFE | Nylon |
|---|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 750–1,000 psi (high-load) | 400 psi (moderate-load) |
| Coefficient of Friction | 0.05–0.2 (extremely low) | Moderate (may need lubrication) |
| Tensile Strength | 10–40 MPa | 280–350 kg/cm² |
| Elongation | 200–400% | 200–400% |
| Bearing Life | Long (excellent wear resistance) | Moderate (shorter in abrasion) |
| Environmental Resistance | Superior (extreme temps/corrosion) | Good (cost-effective for general use) |
Need precision-engineered PTFE or nylon components for your application? Contact KINTEK today for custom solutions tailored to your industry—whether semiconductor, medical, or industrial. Our expertise in high-performance materials ensures durability, low friction, and long bearing life. From prototypes to bulk orders, we deliver reliability.