PTFE (Teflon)

PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene), commonly known by the DuPont trade name Teflon®, is a fully fluorinated polymer renowned for its extraordinarily low coefficient of friction (0.05–0.10), outstanding chemical inertness, and exceptional dielectric properties. It is virtually unaffected by all common industrial chemicals and solvents, making it the material of choice for seals, gaskets, and linings in aggressive chemical environments. PTFE also boasts one of the broadest operating temperature ranges of any thermoplastic, from –200°C to +260°C, though its mechanical stiffness and creep resistance are notably lower than those of other engineering plastics.

Mechanical Properties

• Density: 2.16 g/cm³
• Tensile Strength: 25 MPa
• Yield Strength: N/A — no distinct yield point
• Elongation at Break: 200–400%
• Flexural Modulus: 580 MPa
• Hardness: Shore D 55
• Heat Deflection Temperature: 55°C @ 0.45 MPa
• Melting Point: 327°C
• Thermal Conductivity: 0.25 W/m·K
• Coefficient of Thermal Expansion: 12.0 × 10⁻⁵ /°C
• Water Absorption: <0.01%
• Flammability Rating: V-0 (UL94)

Advantages

🟢  Extremely low coefficient of friction (0.05–0.10) — one of the slipperiest solid materials known, ideal for non-stick and low-wear applications

🟢  Outstanding chemical resistance — virtually inert to all industrial chemicals, acids, bases, and solvents up to 260°C

🟢  Exceptional electrical insulation properties — very low dielectric constant (2.1) and dissipation factor across a wide frequency range

🟢  Wide service temperature range from –200°C to +260°C — retains flexibility at cryogenic temperatures

Machining & Manufacturing

Common Applications