Teflon, or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), is a high-performance fluoropolymer renowned for its unique combination of physical properties. These include exceptional heat resistance, chemical inertness, low friction, and excellent electrical insulation. Its density ranges from 2.07–2.20 g/cm³, with a melting point around 327°C, making it stable across extreme temperatures. The material’s nonstick nature and low thermal conductivity (0.25–0.29 W/(m·K)) further enhance its versatility in industrial and consumer applications, from cookware to aerospace components. Below, we break down these properties in detail for equipment and consumable purchasers evaluating Teflon for specific use cases.
Key Points Explained:
1. Thermal Properties
- Melting Point: 325–327°C (617–621°F), allowing use in high-temperature environments (e.g., industrial seals or muffle furnace linings).
- Thermal Conductivity: Low (0.25–0.29 W/(m·K)), ideal for insulation in electrical components.
- Heat Resistance: Stable from -200°C to +260°C, suitable for cryogenic and high-heat applications.
2. Mechanical Properties
- Density: 2.07–2.20 g/cm³, lightweight yet durable.
- Tensile Strength: 20.5–35 MPa, with high elongation at break (306%), offering flexibility under stress.
- Hardness: Shore D 57, balancing softness for machining and rigidity for structural parts.
3. Electrical Properties
- Resistivity: 10^16–10^18 Ω·cm, making it one of the best insulators.
- Dielectric Strength: 40–60 kV/mm, critical for high-voltage applications like cable sheathing.
4. Chemical and Surface Properties
- Chemical Inertness: Resists almost all solvents, acids, and bases (except alkali metals).
- Coefficient of Friction: 0.0646 (against steel), enabling nonstick surfaces in cookware and bearings.
- Water Absorption: 0.0074%, ensuring minimal swelling in humid environments.
5. Specialized Performance
- UV/Weather Resistance: Unaffected by sunlight or outdoor exposure, ideal for aerospace coatings.
- Fatigue Resistance: Maintains integrity under repeated stress (e.g., flexible tubing).
For purchasers, these properties highlight Teflon’s adaptability in demanding settings, from medical devices (chemical resistance) to electronics (dielectric stability). Its trade-offs—like lower compressive strength (10.2 MPa)—can guide material selection based on load-bearing needs.
Summary Table:
| Property | Value/Range | Key Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Melting Point | 325–327°C (617–621°F) | High-temperature seals, furnace linings |
| Thermal Conductivity | 0.25–0.29 W/(m·K) | Electrical insulation |
| Heat Resistance | -200°C to +260°C | Cryogenic to high-heat environments |
| Density | 2.07–2.20 g/cm³ | Lightweight yet durable components |
| Tensile Strength | 20.5–35 MPa | Flexible parts under stress |
| Electrical Resistivity | 10^16–10^18 Ω·cm | High-voltage insulation |
| Chemical Inertness | Resists most solvents, acids, bases | Medical devices, lab equipment |
| Coefficient of Friction | 0.0646 (vs. steel) | Nonstick surfaces, bearings |
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