What are the differences between Teflon and PTFE?

 

While picking a polymer for their items, customers regularly have inquiries concerning PTFE hose versus Teflon: what is the distinction between the two? The main contrast lies in the name. PTFE is the abbreviated name of the substance polytetrafluoroethylene, and Teflon is the exchange name of a similar polymer. If you are searching for an exceptionally adaptable, non-stick material that is compound, electrical and warm safe, look no farther than PTFE.

The History of Teflon

In 1938, a DuPont scientific expert named Roy J. Plunkett coincidentally found Teflon while endeavoring to make another chlorofluorocarbon refrigerant. DuPont licensed the new fluorinated plastic and enrolled the Teflon trademark in 1945. It was first acquainted with people in general in 1960 as Teflon-covered (non-stick) browning skillet and cookware.

What are the Properties of PTFE?

• PTFE has perhaps the least coefficient of grinding against any strong known to man
• It is hydrophobic, which means neither water nor water-containing substances wet PTFE
• Unadulterated PTFE is synthetically inactive and profoundly insoluble in many solvents or synthetics
• It has a huge working temperature go, demonstrating thermally stable enough to be utilized between — 328ºF and +500ºF without corrupting
• PTFE has a high flexural quality, even at low temperatures
• It has high electrical opposition and dielectric quality, particularly at high radio frequencies

What are the Applications for PTFE?

About half of all PTFE created is utilized for wiring in aviation and PC applications (connect wires, coaxial links, and so on.) in light of its superb dielectric properties. Combined with its high dissolving temperature, PTFE is the ideal superior substitute for the more fragile and lower-liquefying point polyethylene normally utilized in ease electrical applications.

For mechanical use, PTFE’s low grinding fits plain direction, gears, slide plates, and different applications with the sliding activity of parts, outflanking both acetal and nylon in these capacities. PTFE makes longer-enduring, better parts that lessen grinding, wear, and vitality utilization of hardware, lower support expenses, and increment the lifetime of the two sections and apparatus.

Because of its high-temperature rating and extraordinary non-reactivity, PTFE tubes are regularly utilized as holders, development joints, liners in hose gatherings, modern pipelines, and different applications including destructive and receptive synthetic substances.

PTFE versus Teflon: What’s in a Name?

Regardless of whether you call it PTFE or Teflon, this present material’s amazing flexibility permits it to be utilized in a stunning assortment of items and applications in about each industry. The specialists at Reading Plastic can machine and manufacture any PTFE part you need with accuracy and greatness.

PTFE Tubing Benefits & Applications

PTFE hose pipe or Polytetrafluoroethylene is what you can call one of the best and certainly the most effective plastic material. It is ivory-white and opaque fluoropolymer; the process of making it up is using free-radical polymerization of a number of tetrafluoroethene molecules that are used in a number of different industries and yes, it is not only a large part of acid industries but also a major part of other industries, namely the food and drink industry, the telecom industry and the pharmaceuticals.

The Chief Properties of PTFE

The PTFE tube is a wonderful material, having features such as its flexibility, its thermal resistance, chemical resistance, its non-stick feature and it is also electrically resistant material with its melting point being 327°C, and pure PTFE has high flexural strength, even in very low temperatures, high dielectric strength and electrical strength. PTFE hose offers very high resistance to water and a fairly low coefficient of friction. PTFE’s density ranges from the 2200 kg/m3 mark.

The only disadvantage is that it may have a reaction to chemical agents and solvents such as chlorine trifluoride, xenon difluoride, cobalt (III) fluoride, or elementary fluorine if it is put under high pressure and temperature conditions. PTFE does not have very high energy radiation, which forces the breakdown of PTFE molecules.

A Few Modified Features of PTFE

Apart from PTFE, there are other two copolymers that have different properties.

Perfluoroalkoxy otherwise known as PFA has almost similar properties of PTFE as it is flexible, very chemically resistant and thermally stable and can be used up to 260 degrees C even if PTFE has the properties of being able to creep, PFA is creep resistant and is used for a number of properties such as extrusion, melt-processing, injection molding, transfer molding, compression molding and blow molding.

TFM, another name for the same is PTFE-TFM, is polytetrafluoroethylene complete with perfluoropropylvinylether acting as an additional modifier, a material which is quite stiff being creep-resistant like PFA, and weldable.

Advantages of PTFE

PTFE is undeniably very versatile and has a host of applications to speak of.

It is a big part of manufacturing and engineering industries, it is not limited to using in tubes or liners or for handling or storing a few corrosive chemicals, but it is also used in a number of parts such as bearings or screws to boost the lifespan of the parts and also the machinery it is part of.

The longer-lasting, higher-performance enhances the shelf-life and the efficiency of any machine it is part of, thus reducing the requirement of constantly replacing parts, which leads to saving money and reducing waste. Hence it cuts down on constant maintenance issues with the equipment which will lead to the reduction of any expensive manufacturing downtime due to the repairs and faults and will create problems for PTFE hose manufacturer.

PTFE coat has non-wetting properties and felicitates self-cleaning which again reduces the cost of frequent cleaning.

Teflon textile finishes are environment-friendly because the finish repels water and oil stains, and reduce the requirement of dry-cleaning and fabrics will also tend to dry up quickly, using far less energy with methods as tumble drying, and with the reduction of wear, it also tends to last longer.

Take a look at the above properties of PTFE and it will explain why it is one of the most sought-after pipes and tubes catering to the needs of most of the industries.

The Medical Device and Electrical Industries Use PTFE Tubing

PTFE tubing has been used in a number of applications and for varied purposes in a huge number of industries, including medical device and electrical industries. What makes it such an indispensable tubing for most industries? Its properties make it an important addition to medical device and electrical industries. It has solid electrical insulation properties. It is chemically inert, has low friction and also helps satisfy biocompatibility requirements. The tubing is used for a number of applications where the wires are passed through the interior of the tubing or it is used for fluid delivery applications. PTFE tubingalso has the high-temperature range and it is good for both extreme cold and hot environments, and wet conditions too.

Applications Where PTFE Tubing Is Used

PTFE is used as a part of guide wire assemblies. These assemblies can be used in a variety of products for example prosthetics. Guide wires are also a part of the switching mechanism. It also acts as a protective barrier when a secondary object is safely passed through the tubing right to the other side. In laboratory experiments, a small infrared camera is inserted to identify specific molecules suspended in a liquid. The camera can get damaged if it is exposed directly to the liquid or harsh chemicals, the tubing acts as a barrier and acts as a protective shield to the camera, and it helps stop contaminating the sample. Teflon tubing is now largely used in printers specifically for roll covers and is used for covering medical and surgical tools.

Medical device manufacturers are constantly trying to improve device designs to boost their performance levels. There are varied trends in the medical device industry and manufacturers have to consider the same when introducing the product in the market. One of the most common trends that you notice in the medical device industry is the act of connecting the metals and plastic. Another one is enabling “real-time” data when you reach a diagnostic system. Medical device manufacturers are constantly trying to create the best products and try to meet up with the latest trends and emerging healthcare demands.

Additionally, medical device manufacturers have to abide by strict regulations charted down by the FDA. Medical devices are classified under classes, I-III. Class III medical are regulated the most. Medical device manufacturers also have to ensure that their products are not too invasive. A faulty medical device may prove to be fatal. So, product quality holds utmost importance, otherwise, they may be slapped a lawsuit.

Since medical device manufacturers have to maintain so many regulations, they must use the best components and PTFE tubes live up to these standards. PTFE is a fluoropolymer that has been in the market for some time and it has managed to cater to the needs of varying industries and their ever-growing demands with great precision and quality.

Physical Properties of PTFE - A Popular Option Used in Most Industries

 

Countless enterprises, for example, the steel Industry and compound preparing industry have been reliably using channels made of fluoropolymers and is made of materials like PTFE and hoses for various years for the carriage of exceptionally responsive or destructive synthetic substances. These funnels are getting progressively mainstream as time passes, on account of the remarkable properties and are supplanting the channels made of carbon and different metals.

ptfe tubes

The Properties of PTFE Tubes

The PTFE tubeproperties are not the same as another sort of channels and it is its interesting properties which set it apart from carbon and the metal funnels.

Warm properties-PTFE tubing is sufficiently strong to withstand high temperatures as high as 680 °F for a brief term under cryogenic conditions; PTFE tubes stays unaltered even at amazingly high temperatures, for example, 500 degrees Fahrenheit and can withstand cold temperatures also as low as - 320 °F.

Electrical properties-PTFE tubing gloats of impressiveelectrical properties as it is an incredible protector and an extraordinary surface resistivity.

It is resistant to UV beams - PTFE tubing has magnificent UV opposition and wearability.

Wear and Friction Qualities-One thing that will strike you about PTFE tubings is its dangerous and smooth surface, so it likewise has an extraordinary wear and frictional characteristics.

Use of PTFE Tubes

The accomplishment of PTFE tubing is mainly a result of its exceptional properties and it is utilized in a wide number of businesses. The PTFE uses and Properties are as per the following:

In car applications, the property of PTFE to withstand temperatures in overabundance of 250oC makes it a perfect cylinder for high-temperature liquid exchange and subsequently is a prepared reckoner for PTFE tube providers.

In restorative applications, PTFE tubing is much popular because of its lubricity and compound inactivity. The utilization of catheters utilizing PTFE Tubing as it tends to be embedded into the human body unafraid of reasoning it will influence the strength of the patient.

In compound applications, it tends to be utilized in research centers and can supplant the utilization of glass tubes for the most part since it is idle and truly sturdy and subsequently a most loved with PTFE tube producers.

In electrical applications, the exceptionally successful dielectric properties of PTFE tubing make it truly appropriate for protecting high voltage links.

The adaptability of PTFE tubes has increased its prominence as of late and there is by all accounts minimal possibility of its prevalence fading out at any point in the near future.

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a high atomic polymer that is a much looked for after item utilized in link and tubing industry predominantly on account of its electrical properties, synthetic inactivity, and high-temperature obstruction. An ever increasing number of ventures are utilizing this extraordinary material, particularly in the assembling and modern divisions for the most part in view of the particular properties of the specific polymer. It is of nothing unexpected that PTFE abrasion resistant tubes are highly looked for after over the world; certain one of a kind properties are separating it from another comparable sort of tubes.

The characteristics referenced here a makes it an essential piece of the most ventures. Greater parts are understanding that PTFE tubings are essential to their assembling needs and consequently it's implied that most ventures can't work without these unimaginable channels.

PTFE Antistatic Tube Uses in Various Industries

Polytetrafluoroethylene also is known as PTFE is an opaque white fluoropolymer that can be chemically created and the process is known as free radical polymerization or using the process of multiple tetrafluoroethene molecules. PTFE is used in a wide number of applications and industries such as automotive, aerospace also telecom.

In applications where static charge is created (i: e using a medium complete with a high flow rate), it is advisable to use conductive (antistatic) PTFE tubing. When one uses a static charge it can ignite the medium (because of electric sparks) or can cause holes in the wall tubings. The filler in the tubing does not prevent static charge and enables good and safe guidance.

Conductive (antistatic) PTFE tubing is available from stock in smooth design.

You’ll discover that PTFE tubes or rods are combined with metals such as stainless steel or carbon that increases the strength of and wear resistance.

PTFE Properties

PTFE has a few distinctive properties and that is why it is preferred by most industries. It is resistant to chemicals, heat, electricity, and it is highly flexible as well.

PTFE has a melting point of 327 degrees Celsius and it is chemically inert. Even when it is put through extreme temperatures such as high temperatures (260-degree Celsius) and low temperatures (-200 degrees Celsius) it does not change or shows any signs of degradation. I

· It has impeccable flexural strength that too in extremely low temperatures.

· It has stupendous electrical strength

· It is a potent force for its dielectric strength

· Its water resistance power is pretty high as well

· It has a low coefficient of friction

· It has a very high-density level (2200kg/m3)

The fact that PTFE is chemically inert that it only reacts to only a few chemicals, so the only way to cause any impact on it is via energy radiation.

What are the Properties of Filled PTFE

Pure PTFE is subject to deformation under pressure, there are a few additives that can come to the rescue. However, all kinds of filled PTFE (modified) cannot be used in food and beverage applications.

Although some PTFE tube manufacturers do add filler to pure PTFE for its inherent advantages, they being its strength can be increased, the electrical conductivity can increase and its abrasive-resistance also increases manifold. But fillers can affect PTFE on some other levels, such as chemical resistance. If you are a PTFE hose manufacturer and want to add fillers you need to focus on the kind of properties you want to improve.

Benefits of PTFE

We already know PTFE has a wide range of applications. So it can be used in both the engineering and manufacturing fields, PTFE coatings are used to make different kinds of parts such as screws and bearings that are resistant to corrosion.

PTFE coatings can do away with concerns regarding the wear and tear of screws and bearings if they are coated with PTFE. It makes components heat-resistant too. PTFE tubings can be used in food industries as it is non-toxic since it is FDA-approved it is safe to use.

Different Types of PTFE Tubes and Its Uses

There has been a gradual growth of Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or Teflon® from a product used only in high-value applications to a mainstream commercial requirement. However, today, ptfe tubes has become commercially viable in over 200 industrial, consumer and medical applications. Although sheets, rods, coatings and components corner the bulk of the market for PTFE products, PTFE tubing is now emerging as the key growth area and it is widely used across several industries. As a result of which the number of ptfe hose manufacturers are emerging. 

What is PTFE Tubing?

PTFE Tubing is defined as a semi-transparent, chemically inert, and non-toxic material that features temperature resistance and a surface that facilitates the flow of fluids. It can be used in service temperatures of up to 260°C. Thus, making it a material of choice in high temperature applications. It also has a breakdown voltage of up to 100Kv/mm which makes it excellent in electrical insulation.
These types of tubes are mostly used in applications requiring resistance to high temperatures, corrosive chemicals, and high voltages. Also, it can be used for other applications such as fluid transfer applications, cabling, and heat-exchanger systems. 

Reasons for the extensive use of PTFE Tubing:-
Highly resistant to heat - PTFE has high resistance which suggests that it has extremely high-melting temperatures. Therefore, it is suitable for use in industries where transportation of hot liquids is a daily requirement. 

Resistant to Corrosion: PTFE is also resistant to a wide variety of harsh chemicals and acids. Imperbeality is its another important feature, therefore water cannot make its way through.  Due to the property of imperbeality, PTFE tubing is the right option to transport chemicals.
Low coefficient of friction: PTFE tubing is absolutely perfect and widely used in catheters and snares due to the low coefficient of friction (0.1). 

Here mentioned are the different types and uses of PTFE Tubing:-
The PTFE tube manufacturers typically classify PTFE tubing in three different categories depending on the thickness of the wall and the diameter of tube, such as Pressure hose, Spaghetti tubing and Pipe liner. Within these categories, there is a further classification.

Let’s check out the various type of PTFE tubing:-
Split - In these PTFE tubes, there is a ridge that enables the tubing to be split longitudinally. It’s structure allows medical practitioners to extract PTFE introducers from patient’s bodies without having to dislocate the primary device.

Heat shrinkable - This type of tubing is made up of very thin material. Therefore, as it gets exposed to hot air, it begins to decrease and shrink. This is what makes the manufacturing of wires and glass tubes easier along with other insulation purposes.

Multi-lumen - This type of tubing contains a vast number of smaller tubes within an interior. Each and every layer comprises of a different type of fluid or wire. These types of tubes are used across a number of applications in the medical industry. 

PTFE tubing is also used in oil and petrol, for example, to seal and lubricate joints around fuel lines in automotive applications, to its notable chemical inertness. Thus, it helps prevent methanol or gasoline vapors (and odors) from seeping out. 

Some common uses of PTFE Tubing:-
In chemical areas, PTFE tubing can be used in pharmaceutical manufacturing plants. For example, corrosion resistant hose are used in corrosives transfer application. However, cosmetic hose is used in cosmetic manufacturing plant, and sanitary and aseptic hose can be utilized for high purity fluid transfer. And, heated hose is used to transfer hot fluids at a maintained temperature.

For automotive and railways, PTFE hose manufacturer supplies different kinds of products such as fuel hose, turbocharger hose, coolant hose, auto-brake hose, motor bike brakes hose, diesel Engine hose, motorsports hose and power steering hose.

There are several other general applications of PTFE Hoses such as charging hose for carton filling machines, high pressure gas hose for gas bottle filling, bottle filling hose for bottle filling machines. And, foodstuffs hose, hose for processing plants and dispensing.

PTFE tubing is used for a variety of industrial applications and since the last few years, it has been increasingly used in medical devices. It has an extremely smooth surface due to very low coefficient of friction.

While purchasing PTFE, it is important to select tubing of the correct material which can perform under the desired conditions, and is commercially viable and available.

How PTFE Hoses Helps in Fire Safety and Shock Absorption

Stainless steel braided PTFE hose pipes are an essential piece of the present market since they are utilized to ship gasses and securely, effectively and viably. Braided PTFE hose pipes are flexible to the point, that they discover applications where a large portion of different materials fall flat. They are accessible in an assortment of sizes and types and can be found in numerous ventures. Due its one of a kind properties, PTFE hoses ¼" helps in fire wellbeing (see picture underneath) See beneath a portion of its mainstream properties underneath: 

 

Advantages of utilizing PTFE twisted hoses utilized for your assembling procedure:

Twisted PTFE hose is solid as it is solid and tough.

It varies from other hose tubings since they are comprised of woven tempered steel fortification and gives the additional

Braided PTFE hose works super proficiently under high tension, truth be told, it performs better under high tension.

Plaited PTFE hose is additionally temperature safe.

Plaited PTFE Hose is especially helpful when it is utilized in antagonistic conditions, for example, extraordinary climate conditions.

PTFE plaited hose is safe doesn't respond with any synthetic compounds accessible available today, in any event the majority of them.

The synthetic substances that can harm PTFE are liquid antacid metals separated fromhalogenated synthetic substances so PTFE hose is ideal for various assembling forms.

Meshed PTFE hose is additionally utilized widely in food and drink producing.

PTFE hose pipes don't get harmed in any event, when in contact with dampness for quite a while. PTFE likewise doesn't move its properties to the fluid or gasesto the substance and consequently doesn't include smell, taste. It's no big surprise that PTFE gets 's by the FDA and is permitted to be utilized in food items.

Braided PTFE hose is ideal for use in fire wellbeing and stun ingestion as it gives protection from fire.

PTFE interlaced hose pipes are viewed as sheltered to be utilized in fire wellbeing and are every now and again utilized in various spots where the utilization of fire is wild such fire douser frameworks (see picture underneath). That is not all PTFE hose can likewise be utilized in situations, where the warmth is high and can be furnished with a silicone heat sleeve over the treated steel mesh support.