New PTFE Components for problems with sealing and friction from FTL Technology
 Constant
innovation in manufacturing techniques allows FTL Technology to offer more state
of the art technology in PTFE. New developments include cost effective injection
moulded parts in PTFE, tubes and components in PFA, Porous PTFE and PTFE foils
and films. If you have problems that the many unique properties of PTFE can
solve, including low friction, wide temperature range, virtually universal
chemical range, please contact us.
PTFE SYNTHESIS
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a partially crystalline substance obtained
from the monomer tetrafluoroethylene (TFE by polymerization. The macro-molecules
created in this process have a linear structure. PTFE's chain structure has two
interesting characteristics:
The carbon chain is almost completely shielded by fluorine atoms, thus being
protected from external influences. The carbon-fluorine combination is one of
the strongest bondings in organic chemistry (dissociation energy: 460 Kj/mol).
This gives PTFE its exceptionally high chemical and thermal resistance.
Modified PTFE
Modified PTFE is obtained from the monomer, tetrafluoroethylene (TFE) and a
modifier (which is perfluorinated as well), perfluoropropylvinylether (PPVE).
The shorter molecular chains (compared to PTFE) have a higher tendency to
crystallize. This would degrade the mechanical properties of the material. The
modifier effectively inhibits crystallization. This means that with modified
PTFE it is possible to combine thermo-plastic property components - due to the
shorter molecular chains - with the good mechanical properties of standard PTFE.
PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF UNFILLED PTFE
Special Characteristics
This material is characterized by a concentration of outstanding properties
which is unique in the family of plastics. Including an exceptionally wide
thermal application range from -260°C up to +260°C (short-term up to 300°C) and
a virtually universal chemical resistance.
Additionally the material is light, weather and Hot water vapour resistant. It
has very good sliding properties and is anti-combustible ; (LOI > 95). Unfilled
PTFE has good electric and dielectric properties and exhibits no absorption of
water. It is physiologically harmless (with BgVV, EU and FDA approvals for use
with foodstuffs)
Benefits of Modified PTFE
While retaining the positive properties that are typical for PTFE, modified PTFE
has additional benefits. Cold flow is reduced by the factor of 3, with reduced
permeation of chemicals and gas down to half of the PTFE value. Porosity is
reduced to half of PTFE's porosity and there is a minimum tendency for pore
formation during drawing processes. Modified PTFE IS Suitable for welding, using
special methods
Further Information
For more infomation please contact Tony Snowdon at FTL Technology on 0113 252
1061 or e-mail tonys@ftltech.co.uk
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