NEWS
PTFE and other technical polymers: how to choose the right material
When designing a component for an industrial application , the choice of material is one of the most important decisions. Among high-performance polymers , PTFE – polytetrafluoroethylene – is one of the best known and most widely used materials, due to its unique characteristics.
But how does it compare with other engineering polymers such as PEEK, POM or UHMWPE? What are its strengths, and in which cases is it the best choice?
In this article we try to shed some light, comparing the main polymers used in industry.
What makes PTFE special?
PTFE is known to be one of the most chemically inert materials. It resists almost all corrosive agents, has thermal stability up to 260 °C, and has a very low coefficient of friction. This makes it ideal in contexts where adhesion of materials must be avoided (think nonstick coatings, gaskets or piping for chemicals) or where permanent lubrication without the use of oil or grease is required. However, it is not the only technical polymer available on the market. Depending on the context, other materials may offer specific advantages.
A look at the "alternatives"
PEEK, for example, is a material with exceptional mechanical properties and even higher heat resistance than PTFE (up to about 300 °C). However, it has a significantly higher cost and slightly lower chemical resistance.
POM is a rigid polymer that is widely used for gears, bearings and precision components. It is easy to machine and has good dimensional stability, but is not suitable for chemically aggressive environments or high temperatures.
Finally, UHMWPE is known for its excellent wear resistance and good behavior in wet environments, but it does not hold up well to high temperatures and has limited chemical resistance compared to PTFE.
When to choose PTFE?
PTFE is an optimal solution in applications involving exposure to corrosive substances, high temperatures, or conditions where it is important to reduce friction and wear. In addition, it is available in a wide variety of shapes and compositions: it can be filled with materials such as glass, graphite or bronze to improve mechanical properties while keeping its main qualities intact.
Of course, each application has its own specificities. That’s why ITAflon offers its customers customized technical support to guide them in choosing the most suitable polymer based on the working environment, expected stresses and performance goals.
Summary
There is no absolute “best” material, but there is definitely a material best suited for each project. PTFE stands out for its versatility and performance in the most demanding contexts, but knowing the alternatives and their strengths is critical to making an informed choice.
