PTFE Rod

PTFE Rod offers numerous advantages, including an incredibly low coefficient of friction, a maximum working temperature of +260°C (+300°C for short periods), exceptional electrical insulation properties, minimal moisture absorption, high chemical and acid resistance, and remarkable UV resistance. It is also one of the most thermally stable plastic materials, approved for food contact, and non-toxic.

PTFE Rod is relatively soft, making it less suitable for certain high-stress applications. Additionally, it is more expensive than other plastics like nylon and acetal, and its relatively higher density makes it heavier than some other plastic options.

PTFE products exhibit exceptional resistance to high and low temperatures, chemical reaction, corrosion, and stress-cracking. Its electrical and low-friction properties make it a preferred material for various applications.

PTFE Rod is widely used in applications requiring sliding action of parts, such as plain bearings, gears, seals, cryogenic applications, and more. It excels in low friction applications, performing even better than nylon and acetal, and is comparable to ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) in wear resistance. Additionally, its high bulk resistivity makes it ideal for fabricating long-life electrets, the electrostatic analogues of magnets.

Machining PTFE Rod can be challenging due to its softness, low friction, and "slipperiness." It requires a high-speed lathe with sharp tools and slow movement to prevent crushing or distortion. Swarf generated during machining can form long strings that may wrap around tooling.

PTFE must undergo surface preparation prior to bonding, using flame, corona discharge, plasma treatment, or etching. Various adhesives, including epoxies, polyurethanes, acrylics, and rubber-based adhesives, can be used. Some proprietary primers or specialist acrylic-based adhesives from companies like Loctite and 3M bond directly to PTFE without the need for extensive pre-treatment.

PTFE is commonly used in cookware linings, making it an approved food-grade material.

PTFE Rod exhibits wear resistance depending on the severity of abrasiveness, speed, and loads. In some cases, wear resistance may be compromised if any of these factors are high. PTFE can be used as a filler to enhance the wear resistance of other materials and plastics.

PTFE is virtually inert against known elements and compounds, only attacked by alkaline metals in their elemental state, chlorine trifluoride, and elemental fluorine at high temperatures and pressures. It is insoluble in almost all solvents at temperatures up to about 300°C.

PTFE is the only known surface to which a gecko cannot stick.

Yes, PTFE is famously known as Teflon® (DuPont).

PTFE Rod is available in white (natural) and diameters ranging from 4mm up to 120mm. For larger sizes, customers can contact our sales team for availability.

It is essential to avoid exposing PTFE Rod to temperatures above 400°C, as it can release highly toxic fumes of fluorides when heated to extreme temperatures. Proper safety measures should be followed during machining to prevent exposure to PTFE dust or shavings under such conditions.

PTFE Rod offers an array of benefits, including high chemical resistance, excellent temperature capability, resistance to weathering, low friction, exceptional electrical and thermal insulation, and "slipperiness."

PTFE, famously known as Teflon®, stands as a thermo-set plastic that retains its shape, flexibility, and resilience under stress, tension, or compression. Highly versatile, it can be moulded into various shapes, sizes, and hardness levels. PTFE showcases superior abrasion, ageing, and tear resistance, outperforming rubber. With excellent load-bearing capacity and minimal deformation issues, it is a durable choice for various applications. Its exceptional impact resistance, wear properties, and elastic memory further enhance its appeal, making it an excellent option in many industrial settings.