FAQ
PTFE FAQ | Plastic Machining QuestionsCurious about PTFE, Teflon™, or our high-performance plastic machining services?
This FAQ section provides answers to the most commonly asked questions to help you make informed decisions.
Whether you’re exploring filler options, wondering about lead times, or choosing between virgin versus recycled PTFE, we’re here to clarify.
This FAQ page addresses typical queries we receive, so you can better understand our materials, processes, and capabilities, all in one place.
What is virgin PTFE and what is Repro/Mechanical PTFE?
Virgin PTFE refers to pure, unused PTFE resin in its original state, offering superior physical properties and FDA approval. In contrast, Reprocessed or Mechanical Grade PTFE is made from recycled material and is commonly used to produce PTFE sheets and extruded rods. PTFE Industries can manufacture products using either virgin or reprocessed PTFE, depending on customer requirements.
What is a PTFE compound?
PTFE compounds are created by blending PTFE resin with fillers such as graphite, carbon, or glass. These additives alter the properties of the material slightly to enhance performance for specific applications. Compounds are typically formulated to meet customer specifications, often based on details provided in machined part drawings.
What is the maximum temperature PTFE can sustain before losing its properties?
PTFE can withstand temperatures up to 500°F before it begins to lose its physical and chemical properties.
How resistant is PTFE to chemicals and other substances?
PTFE is a chemically inert material with exceptional resistance to a wide range of chemicals, including acids, bases, and solvents. It remains stable even in harsh environments and is only affected by a few substances, such as fluorine, chlorine trifluoride, and molten alkali metals, under high temperatures and pressures.
Can PTFE stick to other surfaces?
Yes. First, the finished PTFE surface must go through a process that involves chemicals called “etching.” The etched PTFE will have a brown appearance, and the etched side can then be coated with an adhesive, allowing it to stick.
How available are PTFE Industries’ semi-finished and finished products?
PTFE Industries keeps an adequate inventory of resins to consistently meet customer needs. With in-house molding and machining capabilities, our lead times typically range from 1 to 4 weeks, depending on the product and current demand.
If you still have a question that’s not covered here, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to provide tailored information, help you choose the best material, or guide you through our capabilities so we can support your project needs.