Product Focus – PTFE
What Is PTFE Coated Fabric?
PTFE is a high performance lamination or coating, which can be reinforced through the use of a base fabric, like glass fibre or Kevlar, or unsupported through multi-layer cross lamination. PTFE, or Polytetrafluoroethylene is a synthetic fluoropolymer of tetrafluoroethylene with multiple applications. TFE is more often recognised through trade names such as Teflon®.
PTFE Temperature Range and Performance
Depending on how it is supported, PTFE can perform continuously across temperature ranges from -72°C to +260°C and can be used in cryogenic applications when paired with an aramid base fabric. PTFE’s characteristics make it a popular choice for non-stick and low friction applications, while also offering excellent resistance to flame, weather, ozone and high chemical corrosion from both acid and alkali.
Key Properties of PTFE Fabric
PTFE fabrics are all-rounders in performance:
- Chemically inert
- Excellent temperature resistance
- Low coefficient of friction
- Minimal to no surface micro-cracking, giving excellent water and oil tightness
PTFE Applications and Uses
PTFE’s non-reactivity and high temperature resistance make it well suited to a wide range of applications, including thermal insulation, expansion joints, industrial pipelines and production belts. It can also be used in hazardous zones, where special additions to the coating provide anti-static or conductive surface resistivity.
PTFE Processing and Lamination
Processing PTFE can be difficult and, at times, expensive. Its high melting point means PTFE transitions from a solid to a gas without passing through a liquid stage, instead softening into a pliable solid before turning to gas. It is at this softened stage that PTFE can be laminated or coated onto a substrate.
PTFE Variants and Related Fabrics
Other versions of PTFE are available, including expanded PTFE in a range of thicknesses, as well as threads and coated packings and cords. We also offer other members of the PTFE family, such as ECTFE, a clear film regularly used for windows on flange jackets, allowing the valve to be viewed without removing the jacket system. Many PTFE products are available from stock, single and double sided, and in a variety of colours including black, orange, grey, beige and clear.
ATEX Certified PTFE Fabric
THS Textiles has tested PTFE fabrics to ATEX zones 20-22 and is currently undertaking further testing to certify one of our PTFE fabrics to all ATEX zones. Check back for updates.
Fun fact: PTFE is the only known surface a gecko cannot stick to.