A PTFE Sheet is a versatile industrial material manufactured from polytetrafluoroethylene, a high-performance synthetic fluoropolymer. Known colloquially by the brand name Teflon®, PTFE is prized for its exceptional combination of properties, including outstanding chemical resistance, an extremely low coefficient of friction, excellent electrical insulation, and the ability to perform across a wide temperature range. These sheets serve as critical components in countless applications, from sealing and insulating in chemical processing plants to providing non-stick surfaces in food manufacturing and release layers in composite molding.
Kaxite specializes in producing high-grade PTFE sheets engineered for reliability and performance in demanding environments. Our material stands out due to its consistent quality and tailored formulations.
Our product range is available in various grades, sizes, and thicknesses to meet specific application requirements. Below are the standard specifications for Kaxite Virgin PTFE Sheets.
| Property | Test Method | Unit | Typical Value (Virgin PTFE) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Density | ASTM D792 | g/cm³ | 2.14 - 2.20 |
| Tensile Strength | ASTM D638 | MPa (psi) | 25.0 - 35.0 (3625 - 5075) |
| Elongation at Break | ASTM D638 | % | 300 - 500 |
| Coefficient of Friction (Dynamic) | ASTM D1894 | - | 0.05 - 0.10 |
| Continuous Service Temperature | - | °C (°F) | -200 to +260 (-328 to +500) |
| Dielectric Strength | ASTM D149 | kV/mm | > 40 |
| Chemical Resistance | - | - | Excellent (Resistant to virtually all chemicals) |
| Sheet Thickness | Standard Sheet Dimensions (Width x Length) | Available Grades |
|---|---|---|
| 0.5mm (0.020") | 1000mm x 1000mm (39" x 39") 1200mm x 1200mm (47" x 47") 1500mm x 1500mm (59" x 59") Custom sizes available |
Virgin (White) Glass Filled Carbon Filled Bronze Filled FDA Compliant |
| 1.0mm (0.040") | ||
| 1.5mm (0.060") | ||
| 3.0mm (0.118") | ||
| 5.0mm (0.197") | ||
| 10.0mm (0.394") and above |
What are the most common applications for PTFE sheets?
PTFE sheets are used across diverse industries. Common applications include: Gaskets and seals for chemical pumps, valves, and flanges; linings for chutes, hoppers, and tanks to prevent material buildup; bearing pads and slide plates in structural engineering for low-friction movement; release sheets in composite manufacturing (carbon fiber, fiberglass) and rubber molding; insulating components in electrical and electronic assemblies; and non-stick surfaces for heat sealing jaws in packaging and food processing equipment.
Can Kaxite PTFE sheets be machined or fabricated?
Yes, Kaxite PTFE sheets are highly machinable using standard workshop tools. They can be easily cut with knives, shears, or saws, drilled, turned, milled, and punched to create custom gaskets, seals, washers, and insulators. It is recommended to use sharp tools and secure the material properly to avoid deformation due to its softness.
What is the difference between virgin PTFE and filled PTFE grades?
Virgin PTFE is the pure, unfilled polymer offering the best chemical resistance and electrical properties. Filled grades incorporate materials like glass fiber, carbon, graphite, or bronze to enhance specific mechanical properties. For example, glass filling improves creep resistance and wear performance; carbon/graphite fillings enhance conductivity and further reduce wear; bronze filling significantly improves thermal conductivity and compressive strength. Kaxite offers a full range of both virgin and filled compounds.
What is the maximum temperature a PTFE sheet can withstand?
Kaxite PTFE sheets have an exceptional operating range. They can be used continuously from cryogenic temperatures as low as -200°C (-328°F) up to +260°C (+500°F) without losing their fundamental properties. For short-term exposure, they can handle peaks up to 300°C (572°F). Prolonged exposure above 260°C may lead to gradual thermal degradation.
Are PTFE sheets resistant to UV light and outdoor exposure?
Yes, PTFE is inherently resistant to ultraviolet (UV) light, ozone, and weathering. Unlike many other plastics, it does not degrade, become brittle, or significantly discolor when exposed to sunlight and outdoor elements for extended periods, making Kaxite PTFE sheets suitable for long-term outdoor applications.
How does PTFE perform under load and pressure?
Pure PTFE has a tendency to cold flow or creep under sustained heavy load. This means it can slowly deform over time. For high-load applications like heavy-duty bearings or seals, Kaxite recommends using filled PTFE grades (e.g., glass or bronze filled) which are specially formulated to significantly reduce creep and improve load-bearing capacity.
Are Kaxite PTFE sheets safe for food contact?
Kaxite produces specific grades of virgin PTFE that are compliant with U.S. FDA (Food and Drug Administration) regulations for food contact under certain conditions. These sheets are non-toxic, odorless, and tasteless, making them suitable for applications like food conveyor liners, baking sheet liners, and components in food processing machinery. It is important to specify FDA-compliant grade when ordering for such uses.
How should I clean and maintain PTFE sheets?
Cleaning is straightforward due to PTFE's non-stick nature. Most contaminants can be wiped away. For deeper cleaning, use warm water with a mild detergent. Avoid using abrasive pads or harsh chemicals that could scratch the surface, though PTFE itself is highly chemical resistant. For industrial gaskets, inspect regularly for wear or permanent deformation (compression set) and replace as needed.
Can PTFE sheets be glued or bonded to other materials?
Bonding PTFE is notoriously difficult due to its non-stick, low-surface-energy properties. Standard adhesives will not adhere. For creating laminates or securing sheets, specialized processes are required, such as surface treatment using sodium etching (a chemical process) or plasma treatment to make the surface adhesive-friendly. Alternatively, mechanical fastening (using bolts, rivets, or press-fits) is the most common and reliable method of assembly with Kaxite PTFE sheets.
