Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) ‐ perhaps better known as Teflon®, the trademarked brand name of the PTFE-coated line of cookware owned by Chemours – is a highly adaptable material made of specialized plastic. PTFE is part of a group of compounds known as fluoropolymers. Since the 1930s, after chemist Roy Plunkett discovered the material by mistake, PTFE has been used within a large variety of applications because of its special set of chemical and mechanical properties.
PTFE has grown far beyond non-stick kitchen cookware. As its ability to prevent corrosion and withstand extreme temperatures becomes more widely recognized, PTFE is being used more frequently outside of household items and implemented in far more industrial applications.
PTFE Properties
Teflon® is a highly robust material with many qualities worth considering. PTFE displays the following properties:
- Highly Flexible
Even at low temperatures, PTFE has very high levels of flexibility, making it ideal for a wide range of industrial products and components.
- Chemical Resistance
PTFE is often used as a coating which covers surfaces, parts, or components to protect against rust and corrosion. It lubricity and resistance to wear can add significant life to protected equipment.
- Thermal Properties
Teflon® has a melting point of 327° C. It features a wide range of thermal stability, withstanding temperatures from -200° C to +260° C without damage.
- Electrical Resistance
PTFE has a high dielectric strength, making it an ideal sealant in electrical applications. It is commonly used in data cables and semiconductors.
- Easy to Clean
Liquids won’t stick to a Teflon® surface, so coating machinery or surfaces with it means they need less cleaning and are easy to wipe down.
PTFE Parts and Components
Using PTFE-machined parts for applications offers tremendous benefits that positively impact a wide range of industrial operations. Resistance to wear, high durability, low friction, and high impact strength are common benefits associated with PTFE machined parts.
ESPE Manufacturing Co. can fabricate the following parts using PTFE machining:
- Seals
- Shoulder Washers
- Gaskets
- Bushings
- Electrical Insulators
- O-rings
- Spacers
Fabrication Services at ESPE
ESPE Manufacturing Co. offers a range of Teflon®, Nylon, and other fabrication services. Each service customized to fit your specific needs and requirements. ESPE can perform the following fabrication options:
- Shearing/Slitting
- Laser Cutting
- Stamping
- Die Cutting
Learn More
ESPE Manufacturing Co. is a leader in PTFE machining, with roots dating back to WWII. Back then, we were only a converted sewing machine in a coal shed. Now, we are thriving with our 30,000-square-foot facility, state-of-the-art machinery, and high-tech quality control equipment. When it comes to PTFE fabrication and machining for custom components, ESPE is the best in the business.
ESPE is your number one source for electrical insulation materials and fabricated plastic parts. Contact us today or request a quote to learn more about our products and services.
