Knowledge What is the dielectric constant of PTFE? Key Properties for Electrical Insulation
Author avatar

Tech Team · Kintek

Updated 1 month ago

What is the dielectric constant of PTFE? Key Properties for Electrical Insulation

The dielectric constant of PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) is consistently reported as 2.1 across multiple references, making it an excellent electrical insulator. PTFE's dielectric properties remain stable over a wide frequency range and temperature spectrum (up to 300°C), with additional characteristics like low dissipation factor (0.0004) and high volume resistivity (>10^16 ohm/cm). Its dielectric strength varies significantly with thickness, from 250 kV/mm for thin films to 20 kV/mm for thicker materials, as outlined in various ASTM standards for different PTFE product forms.

Key Points Explained:

  1. Dielectric Constant Value

    • PTFE has a well-established dielectric constant of 2.1, which is exceptionally low. This property is frequency-independent, making it ideal for high-frequency applications like RF components or custom PTFE parts for electronics.
  2. Additional Dielectric Properties

    • Dissipation Factor: 0.0004 (extremely low, minimizing energy loss).
    • Volume Resistivity: >10^16 ohm/cm (near-perfect insulator).
    • Dielectric Strength: Ranges from 20 kV/mm (thick sections) to 250 kV/mm (thin films), critical for designing insulation components.
  3. Thickness Dependency

    • Thin PTFE films (<15 µm) achieve dielectric strengths exceeding 250 kV/mm, while thicker materials (>100 µm) drop to ~20 kV/mm. This is vital for selecting material dimensions in applications like capacitor films or cable insulation.
  4. Temperature and Frequency Stability

    • PTFE’s dielectric performance remains stable up to 300°C and across broad frequency ranges (from DC to microwave frequencies). This thermal resilience suits it for aerospace or automotive electronics.
  5. ASTM Standards for PTFE Products

    • Different forms of PTFE (sheets, tubes, tapes) have standardized dielectric strengths:
      • Sheets (ASTM D3293): 4–24 kV/mm.
      • Thin-walled tubes (ASTM D3295): 35–55 kV/mm.
      • Skived tapes (ASTM D3308): 20–250 kV/mm.
    • These standards guide material selection for specific voltage requirements.
  6. Trade-offs in Material Properties

    • While PTFE excels electrically, its mechanical limitations (creep deformation, poor wear resistance) may necessitate composites or hybrid designs for structural applications.
  7. Practical Implications for Purchasers

    • When sourcing PTFE for electrical insulation, consider:
      • Thickness vs. Dielectric Strength: Thinner films for high-voltage isolation.
      • Frequency Needs: PTFE’s stable 2.1 dielectric constant suits high-frequency PCBs.
      • Thermal Environment: Performance is stable even at elevated temperatures.

PTFE’s combination of low dielectric constant, high resistivity, and thermal stability makes it a cornerstone material for electrical insulation, though its mechanical behavior requires careful design integration. For tailored solutions, explore custom PTFE parts to match specific dielectric or mechanical needs.

Summary Table:

Property Value Importance
Dielectric Constant 2.1 Low, stable across frequencies
Dissipation Factor 0.0004 Minimal energy loss
Volume Resistivity >10^16 ohm/cm Near-perfect insulator
Dielectric Strength 20–250 kV/mm Varies with thickness
Temperature Stability Up to 300°C Reliable in harsh environments

Need precision PTFE components for your electrical insulation needs? KINTEK specializes in custom PTFE solutions for semiconductors, medical devices, and industrial applications. Our expertise in PTFE fabrication ensures high-performance seals, liners, and labware tailored to your exact dielectric and mechanical requirements. Contact us today to discuss your project!

Related Products

Custom PTFE Parts Manufacturer for Teflon Parts and PTFE Tweezers

Custom PTFE Parts Manufacturer for Teflon Parts and PTFE Tweezers

KINTEK prioritizes precision production and offers custom fabrication from prototypes to high-volume orders.

Custom PTFE Parts Manufacturer for Teflon Containers and Components

Custom PTFE Parts Manufacturer for Teflon Containers and Components

High-precision PTFE containers for labs & industry. Chemical-resistant, customizable sizes. Ideal for semiconductor, medical & lab applications. Get a quote!

Custom PTFE Bottles for Diverse Industrial Applications

Custom PTFE Bottles for Diverse Industrial Applications

High-purity PTFE bottles for chemical storage, resistant to acids & solvents. Wide/narrow mouth options, leak-proof, durable. Ideal for labs & industry.

Custom Machined Molded PTFE Teflon Parts Manufacturer for Laboratory ITO FTO Conductive Glass Cleaning Flower Basket

Custom Machined Molded PTFE Teflon Parts Manufacturer for Laboratory ITO FTO Conductive Glass Cleaning Flower Basket

High-purity PTFE flower baskets for semiconductor & lab use. Chemical-resistant, custom designs available. Ideal for silicon wafers & glass substrates.

Custom PTFE Volumetric Flasks for Advanced Scientific and Industrial Use

Custom PTFE Volumetric Flasks for Advanced Scientific and Industrial Use

Premium PTFE volumetric flasks for labs – chemical-resistant, non-stick, precise measurements. Ideal for semiconductor, medical & analytical applications. Shop now!

Customizable PTFE Scrapers and Shovels for Demanding Applications

Customizable PTFE Scrapers and Shovels for Demanding Applications

High-purity PTFE scrapers & shovels for labs, semiconductor & chemical industries. Chemical-resistant, non-stick, durable tools for precise material handling. Custom solutions available.

Custom PTFE Evaporating Dishes for Diverse Applications

Custom PTFE Evaporating Dishes for Diverse Applications

High-purity PTFE evaporating dishes for labs, resistant to acids & solvents. Non-stick, durable, ideal for sample prep. Custom sizes available. Order now!

Customizable PTFE Three Neck Flasks for Advanced Chemical Applications

Customizable PTFE Three Neck Flasks for Advanced Chemical Applications

Our high-performance Three-Neck Round-Bottom Flasks are expertly crafted from pure Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a material renowned for its exceptional properties, making it ideal for demanding laboratory and industrial environments.

PTFE Chemical Solvent Sampling Spoon

PTFE Chemical Solvent Sampling Spoon

Discover our high-purity PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene, commonly known as Teflon) Sampling Spoons, meticulously engineered for the safe, precise, and contamination-free handling of chemicals, solvents, powders, and various samples.

Custom PTFE Measuring Cylinders for Advanced Scientific and Industrial Applications

Custom PTFE Measuring Cylinders for Advanced Scientific and Industrial Applications

Discover the superior performance of our Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) measuring cylinders, engineered for precision and resilience in demanding environments.

Custom PTFE Teflon Parts Manufacturer PTFE Cleaning Rack

Custom PTFE Teflon Parts Manufacturer PTFE Cleaning Rack

High-purity PTFE flower baskets for labs & semiconductor use. Chemical-resistant, -180°C to +250°C, custom sizes available. Contact KINTEK today!

Custom PTFE Teflon Parts Manufacturer Conductive Glass Substrate Cleaning Rack

Custom PTFE Teflon Parts Manufacturer Conductive Glass Substrate Cleaning Rack

High-purity PTFE flower baskets for lab cleaning, resistant to chemicals & extreme temps. Custom designs available for semiconductor & medical applications.

Custom PTFE Square Trays for Industrial and Laboratory Use

Custom PTFE Square Trays for Industrial and Laboratory Use

Premium PTFE square trays for labs & industry. Chemical-resistant, non-stick, high-purity PTFE trays for semiconductors & medical use. Custom sizes available.

Custom PTFE Microwave Digestion Vessels for Demanding Applications

Custom PTFE Microwave Digestion Vessels for Demanding Applications

High-purity PTFE microwave digestion vessels for safe, contamination-free sample prep. Ideal for ICP-MS, AAS, and trace analysis. Custom sizes available.

Customizable PTFE Crucibles for Laboratory and Industrial Applications

Customizable PTFE Crucibles for Laboratory and Industrial Applications

High-purity PTFE crucibles with lids for labs. Chemical-resistant, non-stick, and durable. Ideal for sample digestion, AA, ICP-MS. Custom sizes available.

PTFE Deep Evaporating Dishes Customizable Laboratory and Industrial Solutions

PTFE Deep Evaporating Dishes Customizable Laboratory and Industrial Solutions

High-quality PTFE deep evaporating dishes for labs. Chemical-resistant, non-stick, and customizable. Ideal for sample handling. Get yours now!

Custom PTFE Shallow Evaporating Dishes for Diverse Applications

Custom PTFE Shallow Evaporating Dishes for Diverse Applications

High-purity PTFE shallow evaporating dish for labs. Chemical-resistant, non-stick, ideal for sample evaporation. Custom sizes available. Order now!


Leave Your Message