PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) is a high-performance fluoropolymer renowned for its exceptional thermal and electrical properties, making it indispensable in industries ranging from aerospace to medical devices. Its thermal stability spans from -200°C to +260°C, with a melting point of 326°C, while its electrical insulation capabilities include high dielectric strength (500 volts/mil) and low dielectric constant. These properties, combined with chemical inertness and low friction, enable diverse applications, including custom ptfe parts for specialized environments.
Key Points Explained:
Thermal Properties
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Temperature Resistance:
- Range: Operates reliably from -200°C to +260°C, with short-term tolerance up to 300°C.
- Melting Point: 326°C (620°F); depolymerizes above 650°C (1200°F).
- Low-Temperature Performance: Retains flexibility and strength down to -268°C (-450°F), ideal for cryogenic applications.
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Thermal Stability:
- Nonflammable (UL94 V0 rating) with a limiting oxygen index of 95%, meaning it doesn’t support combustion.
- Low thermal conductivity (~0.25 W/m·K), making it an effective thermal insulator.
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Other Thermal Traits:
- Autoclavable: Sterilizable via steam autoclaving due to heat resistance.
- UV/Radiation Resistance: Excellent UV stability but poor resistance to gamma radiation.
Electrical Properties
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Dielectric Strength:
- Withstands 500 volts per mil, making it a top choice for high-voltage insulation (e.g., wire coatings, semiconductor components).
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Dielectric Constant:
- Low (~2.1), stable across frequencies, minimizing signal loss in high-frequency applications like RF cables.
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Surface Resistivity:
- >10¹⁶ Ω/sq, ensuring superior insulation even in humid environments (water absorption: 0.01% in 24 hours).
Complementary Properties Enhancing Performance
- Chemical Inertness: Resists almost all solvents and acids, ensuring durability in corrosive environments.
- Low Friction (Coefficient: ~0.05): Reduces wear in moving parts, useful for bearings and seals.
- Non-Adhesiveness: Easy-to-clean surfaces repel liquids and contaminants.
Applications Leveraging These Properties
- Electrical: Insulation for wires, circuit boards, and connectors.
- Thermal: Gaskets, seals, and custom ptfe parts for extreme-temperature environments.
- Industrial: Linings for chemical pipes, non-stick coatings, and lab equipment.
PTFE’s blend of thermal resilience and electrical insulation, paired with mechanical robustness, makes it a go-to material for demanding engineering challenges. Its adaptability to customization further extends its utility across niche applications.
Summary Table:
| Property | PTFE Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Temperature Range | -200°C to +260°C (short-term up to 300°C); melting point: 326°C |
| Electrical Insulation | Dielectric strength: 500V/mil; dielectric constant: ~2.1; surface resistivity: >10¹⁶ Ω/sq |
| Thermal Stability | Nonflammable (UL94 V0), low thermal conductivity (~0.25 W/m·K), autoclavable |
| Chemical Resistance | Inert to most solvents/acid; low friction (coefficient: ~0.05); non-adhesive |
| Key Applications | Electrical insulation, high-temperature seals, lab equipment, chemical linings |
Need PTFE components tailored for extreme conditions? KINTEK specializes in precision-engineered PTFE seals, liners, and labware for semiconductor, medical, and industrial applications. Whether you require prototypes or high-volume orders, our custom fabrication ensures optimal performance in corrosive, high-temperature, or electrically demanding environments. Contact us today to discuss your project requirements!