PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) balls are known for their unique combination of physical properties, making them ideal for applications requiring chemical resistance, low friction, and high-temperature stability. Key attributes include a density of 2.2 g/cm³, a flammability rating of V0, and a limiting oxygen index of 95%, indicating exceptional flame resistance. They exhibit minimal water absorption (0.01% over 24 hours) and excellent UV resistance, though they perform poorly under radiation. With a refractive index of 1.38, PTFE balls also offer translucency in specific grades. Their mechanical properties include a Shore D hardness of 60–65, tensile strength of 3,625–4,496 psi, and elongation of 300–400%. The material’s low coefficient of friction and high melting point (327°C) further enhance its versatility in industrial and chemical environments.
Key Points Explained:
1. Thermal Properties
- Melting Point: 327°C, the highest among fluoroplastics, enabling use in high-temperature applications.
- Continuous Working Temperature: Up to +260°C, outperforming most conventional plastics.
- Flammability: Rated V0 (self-extinguishing) with a limiting oxygen index of 95%, making it highly flame-resistant.
2. Mechanical Properties
- Hardness: 60–65 Shore D, balancing durability and flexibility.
- Tensile Strength: 3,625–4,496 psi, suitable for load-bearing applications.
- Elongation: 300–400%, indicating high elasticity under stress.
- Density: 2.2 g/cm³, lightweight yet robust.
3. Chemical and Environmental Resistance
- Chemical Inertness: Resistant to virtually all chemicals, including acids and solvents.
- UV Resistance: Excellent for outdoor or UV-exposed applications.
- Water Absorption: Only 0.01% over 24 hours, ensuring dimensional stability in humid conditions.
- Radiation Resistance: Poor performance under radiation, limiting use in nuclear environments.
4. Electrical and Optical Properties
- Dielectric Strength: Very high electrical resistance, ideal for insulating components.
- Refractive Index: 1.38, with translucent grades available for optical applications.
5. Friction and Surface Properties
- Coefficient of Friction: Extremely low, providing non-stick and low-wear characteristics.
- Hydrophobicity: Repels water, reducing adhesion and contamination risks.
For more details on PTFE balls, visit ptfe balls. These properties make PTFE balls indispensable in industries like aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and chemical processing, where reliability under extreme conditions is critical. Have you considered how their low friction could reduce energy consumption in mechanical systems?
Summary Table:
| Property | Value/Range | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 2.2 g/cm³ | Lightweight yet robust for industrial applications. |
| Flammability | V0 (self-extinguishing) | Exceptional flame resistance, ideal for high-temperature environments. |
| Limiting Oxygen Index | 95% | Highly flame-resistant, suitable for critical safety applications. |
| Water Absorption | 0.01% (24 hours) | Minimal absorption ensures dimensional stability in humid conditions. |
| Shore D Hardness | 60–65 | Balances durability and flexibility for mechanical use. |
| Tensile Strength | 3,625–4,496 psi | Suitable for load-bearing applications in harsh environments. |
| Elongation | 300–400% | High elasticity under stress, reducing brittleness. |
| Melting Point | 327°C | Highest among fluoroplastics, enabling extreme heat resistance. |
| Coefficient of Friction | Extremely low | Non-stick and low-wear characteristics for energy-efficient systems. |
Enhance your industrial applications with precision-engineered PTFE components!
At KINTEK, we specialize in manufacturing high-performance PTFE balls, seals, liners, and labware tailored for semiconductor, medical, and industrial sectors. Our products are designed to withstand extreme temperatures, resist corrosive chemicals, and reduce friction—ensuring reliability and efficiency in your operations.
Whether you need custom prototypes or high-volume orders, our team delivers precision and quality. Contact us today to discuss how PTFE solutions can optimize your systems!