PTFE (PolyTetraFluoroEthylene) a fluorocarbon-based polymer, is also known by Dupont’s brand name Teflon®, and commonly used in its virgin (unfilled) state.
Unfilled PTFE, the most common form, is extremely soft and formable and it is often used for chemical resistant seals and gaskets. This grade of PTFE is used when special needs, such as increased resistance to creep under load, exist.
Virgin grade PTFE is 100% pure material directly from the resin producer that has never been processed into a shape. Virgin PTFE has the highest physical and electrical insulation properties and the whitest color compared to mechanical grade. In compounded formulations, Virgin PTFE is used almost exclusively.
Mechanical grade PTFE contains some or all reground PTFE that has been reprocessed (recycled.) It is a cost-effective alternative to virgin grade, particularly recommended for applications in industrial and process industries where high purity materials are not required. It has similar chemical and tribiological properties. The compressive strength and deformation under load are superior to virgin PTFE. Mechanical grade PTFE also has superior wear resistance to virgin PTFE.
A large number of formulations through the addition of fillers, i.e., glass, carbon, graphite, calcium, ceramic, bronze, moly-disulphide, and within these grades variants such as FDA compliant, heat stabilized, stastic control, and wear resistance are available to match specific application demands. Contact an Emco Industrial Plastics representative who can help you choose the correct material to meet the needs of your application.
