Tetrafluoroethylene
ASTM D1418, ISO 1629 Designation: FEP
ASTM D2000, SAE J200 Type/Class: Not yet assigned
Standard Color: White
Trade Names:
- Algoflon® (Ausimont USA, Inc.)
- Teflon® (DuPont Dow Elastomers)
Relative Cost: High
General Temperature Range: -300° to +450° F
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a chemically inert (inactive or non-reactive) polymer that can handle a wide range of temperatures. In addition to its resistance to most industrial chemicals, PTFE is also low-friction, and impact resistant. Because it does not possess a good elastic memory at or below normal temperatures, PTFE may need to be heated to facilitate installation. PTFE has poor tear resistance, so extra care must be taken not to damage seals during installation. PTFE sometimes requires compounding to control cold flow.
PTFE performs well in:
- Ozone
- Solvents (MEK, acetone, xylene)
- Weather
PTFE does not perform well in:
- Gaseous fluorine
- Highly fluoridated greasing oils
- Melted alkali metals (e.g. sodium and potassium)
