Knowledge What is the volume resistivity and power factor of PTFE? Key Electrical Properties Explained
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Tech Team · Kintek

Updated 4 days ago

What is the volume resistivity and power factor of PTFE? Key Electrical Properties Explained

PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) is renowned for its exceptional electrical insulation properties, making it a preferred material for high-voltage and high-frequency applications. Its volume resistivity typically exceeds 10^18 ohm-meter, ensuring minimal leakage currents and outstanding insulation performance. The power factor of PTFE is negligible across a wide temperature range, further enhancing its suitability for electrical applications. These properties, combined with its low dielectric constant and dissipation factor, make PTFE ideal for custom ptfe parts in industries requiring reliable electrical insulation.

Key Points Explained:

  1. Volume Resistivity of PTFE

    • PTFE exhibits extremely high volume resistivity, often exceeding 10^18 ohm-meter (or 10^18–10^19 ohm-cm).
    • This property ensures minimal electrical leakage, making PTFE an excellent insulator even under high voltages.
    • The high resistivity is maintained across a broad temperature range, ensuring consistent performance in diverse environments.
  2. Power Factor of PTFE

    • The power factor of PTFE is negligibly low, typically in the range of 0.0003–0.0007 at 1MHz.
    • A low power factor indicates minimal energy loss as heat, which is critical for high-frequency applications.
    • This property remains stable over a wide temperature spectrum, reinforcing PTFE's reliability in electrical insulation.
  3. Additional Electrical Properties

    • Dielectric Constant: PTFE has a low dielectric constant (2–2.1 at 1MHz), reducing signal loss in high-frequency circuits.
    • Dielectric Strength: Ranges from 50–170 kV/mm, allowing PTFE to withstand high electric fields without breakdown.
    • Surface Resistivity: Extremely high (10^17 Ohm/sq), preventing surface leakage currents.
  4. Why These Properties Matter for Custom PTFE Parts

    • The combination of high volume resistivity and low power factor makes PTFE ideal for:
      • Insulators in high-voltage equipment.
      • Components in RF/microwave applications.
      • Seals and gaskets in corrosive or high-temperature electrical environments.
    • Custom PTFE parts leverage these properties for tailored solutions in aerospace, electronics, and medical devices.
  5. Other Notable Characteristics

    • Chemical Resistance: PTFE is inert to most chemicals, ensuring longevity in harsh environments.
    • Thermal Stability: Performs well from -200°C to +260°C, suitable for extreme conditions.
    • Non-Stick Surface: Low surface tension repels water and grease, reducing contamination risks.

These attributes collectively make PTFE a versatile material for demanding electrical and industrial applications, particularly where custom solutions are required.

Summary Table:

Property PTFE Value Range Significance
Volume Resistivity >10^18 ohm-meter Ensures minimal leakage, excellent insulation under high voltage
Power Factor (1MHz) 0.0003–0.0007 Negligible energy loss as heat, ideal for high-frequency applications
Dielectric Constant (1MHz) 2–2.1 Reduces signal loss in high-frequency circuits
Dielectric Strength 50–170 kV/mm Withstands high electric fields without breakdown
Surface Resistivity ~10^17 Ohm/sq Prevents surface leakage currents
Thermal Stability -200°C to +260°C Reliable performance across extreme temperatures

Leverage PTFE's superior electrical properties for your specialized applications!

KINTEK manufactures precision custom PTFE components (seals, liners, insulators, and labware) tailored for:

  • High-voltage equipment insulation
  • RF/microwave frequency systems
  • Aerospace/medical electronics
  • Corrosive or extreme-temperature environments

Our expertise in PTFE fabrication ensures:
✓ Ultra-pure material grades meeting ASTM standards
✓ CNC machining tolerances to ±0.001"
✓ Prototype-to-high-volume production
✓ Chemical/plasma treatment options

Request a quote for your project – let’s engineer the ideal PTFE solution together!


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