Stainless steel-filled PTFE balls combine the unique properties of PTFE with the mechanical reinforcement of stainless steel, making them suitable for demanding industrial applications. These composite balls exhibit enhanced wear resistance, higher load-bearing capacity, and improved thermal conductivity compared to pure PTFE, while maintaining excellent chemical resistance and low friction characteristics. Their specific gravity of 3.35 g/cm³ and hardness of 65-69 demonstrate the material's density and durability. The stainless steel filler extends the operating temperature range up to 550°F (288°C) and provides fire resistance, though they remain unsuitable for strong oxidizing agents or extreme high-temperature environments. This combination of properties makes them particularly valuable in applications involving steam, hot liquids, or where both chemical resistance and mechanical strength are required.
Key Points Explained:
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Material Composition and Density
- Stainless steel-filled (ptfe balls)[/topic/ptfe-balls] consist of 50% PTFE and 50% powdered 316 stainless steel
- Specific gravity of 3.35 g/cm³ (higher than pure PTFE's 2.2 g/cm³)
- Increased density improves load-bearing capacity and wear resistance
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Mechanical Properties
- Tensile strength: 22 MPa (higher than pure PTFE's 10-40 MPa range)
- Hardness: 65-69 (Rockwell scale)
- Elongation at break: 400% (maintains PTFE's flexibility)
- Tensile modulus: 0.3-0.8 GPa
- Izod impact strength: 160 J/m
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Thermal and Chemical Characteristics
- Operating temperature range up to 550°F (288°C)
- Fire-resistant with limiting oxygen index of 95%
- Excellent chemical resistance (maintained from pure PTFE)
- Poor radiation resistance
- Unsuitable for strong oxidizing agents
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Friction and Wear Performance
- Coefficient of friction: 0.05-0.2 (low, but slightly higher than pure PTFE)
- Stainless steel filler significantly improves wear resistance
- Higher stem torque required compared to pure PTFE
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Specialized Applications
- Performs well in steam or hot liquid environments
- Combines PTFE's non-stick properties with metal reinforcement
- Used where both chemical resistance and mechanical strength are needed
- Not recommended for ultra-high temperature applications
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Physical Properties
- Water absorption: 0.01% over 24 hours (extremely low)
- Refractive index: 1.38
- Excellent UV resistance
- Flammability rating: V0 (highly flame retardant)
Summary Table:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Material Composition | 50% PTFE, 50% 316 stainless steel |
| Specific Gravity | 3.35 g/cm³ |
| Hardness (Rockwell) | 65-69 |
| Tensile Strength | 22 MPa |
| Operating Temperature | Up to 550°F (288°C) |
| Coefficient of Friction | 0.05-0.2 |
| Flammability Rating | V0 (highly flame retardant) |
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