PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) exhibits minimal water absorption and excellent flammability resistance, making it suitable for demanding applications. Its water absorption rate is only 0.05% after 24 hours and 0.1% after 96 hours at 23°C, per ISO 62 standards. Additionally, PTFE meets the UL94 V-0 flammability rating, indicating self-extinguishing properties when exposed to flame. These characteristics, combined with its chemical inertness, high-temperature resistance, and low friction, make PTFE ideal for medical, industrial, and food-grade applications where moisture resistance and fire safety are critical.
Key Points Explained:
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Water Absorption Characteristics
- PTFE has an extremely low water absorption rate:
- 0.05% after 24 hours
- 0.1% after 96 hours (tested at 23°C per ISO 62).
- This property ensures dimensional stability and prevents swelling or degradation in humid or wet environments, critical for seals, gaskets, and custom ptfe parts used in medical or chemical processing.
- PTFE has an extremely low water absorption rate:
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Flammability Resistance
- PTFE meets the UL94 V-0 standard (per IEC 60695-11-10), meaning it:
- Self-extinguishes within 10 seconds after flame removal.
- Does not drip flaming particles.
- This makes it suitable for electrical insulation and high-temperature applications where fire safety is paramount.
- PTFE meets the UL94 V-0 standard (per IEC 60695-11-10), meaning it:
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Complementary Properties Enhancing Performance
- Chemical Inertness: Resists nearly all acids, bases, and solvents, ensuring longevity in corrosive environments.
- High-Temperature Resistance: Stable up to 260°C (500°F), with a melting point of 327°C.
- Low Friction (Coefficient ~0.04): Ideal for non-stick surfaces and moving components.
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Applications Leveraging These Traits
- Medical: Catheters and surgical tools (non-toxic, autoclavable).
- Industrial: Seals, bushings, and liners for chemical equipment.
- Electrical: Insulation for wires and connectors (non-absorbent, flame-retardant).
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Exceptions and Limitations
- While PTFE is highly resistant, it can degrade in contact with:
- Molten alkali metals (e.g., sodium).
- Turbulent fluorine gas or aggressive fluorochemicals (e.g., chlorine trifluoride).
- While PTFE is highly resistant, it can degrade in contact with:
By understanding these properties, purchasers can confidently select PTFE for environments demanding moisture resistance, fire safety, and durability. Its versatility underscores its value across industries, from healthcare to heavy industry.
Summary Table:
| Property | PTFE Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Water Absorption | 0.05% after 24 hours; 0.1% after 96 hours (23°C, ISO 62) |
| Flammability | UL94 V-0 rated: self-extinguishing, no flaming drips |
| Chemical Resistance | Resists acids, bases, and solvents (except molten alkali metals/fluorine compounds) |
| Temperature Range | Stable up to 260°C (500°F); melts at 327°C |
| Friction Coefficient | ~0.04, ideal for non-stick surfaces |
Upgrade your components with PTFE’s unmatched properties!
KINTEK specializes in precision-engineered PTFE solutions—from seals and liners to custom labware—for industries where moisture resistance, fire safety, and durability are non-negotiable. Contact our team to discuss tailored PTFE parts for your medical, industrial, or electrical applications.
