How PTFE, FEP and PFA are different from one another?

The most well-known and widely used fluoroplastics are PTFE, FEP, and PFA. But what exactly are their distinctions? Learn why fluoropolymers are so special, and which fluoroplastic is best suited to your purpose.

The properties of fluoroplastics:

Fluoropolymers have various distinct features that make them suitable for usage in a variety of applications, including medical, residential, electrical, & automotive.

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The properties of Fluoroplastics are as follows:

●     They can work at significantly high temperatures,

●     They have non-stick properties,

●     They have a low friction surface,

●     They are highly resistant to chemicals, solvents as well as electricity.

Different fluoroplastics have subtle variances, such as varied working temperatures, and are appropriate for various purposes. Fluoropolymers, when used correctly, can provide good economic and performance benefits.

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1.  PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene):

Polytetrafluoroethylene, or PTFE, is the forefather of all fluoroplastics. PTFE, discovered by chemist Roy J. Plunkett in 1938, is the most uncommon fluoropolymer and has the best temperature, chemical resistance, and non-stick qualities.

In addition to the unique features of fluoroplastics, PTFE distinguishes itself by offering the following advantages:

●     It gives the best price-performance ratio,

●     It can work continuously at 260°C + temperature which is considered to be the highest among any other fluoroplastics,

●     It is resistant to almost all chemicals,

●     It has significantly high non-stick properties that even if a gecko tries to get on, it would slip)

●     It is translucent in colour.

The fundamental disadvantage of PTFE is that it does not melt when heated, making it difficult to process. To mould, extrude, and fuse this fluoropolymer, very unusual procedures are required.

Because of its particular qualities, PTFE is perfect for electrical insulation and electronic component protection.

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2.  FEP (Fluoroethylenepropylene):

The melt-processable form of PTFE is FEP (Fluoroethylenepropylene). FEP has qualities that are quite similar to PTFE, but it has a lower maximum operating temperature of +200°C. FEP, on the other hand, is more easily processed and may be welded and re-moulded into intricate profiles.

FEP has the following advantages in addition to the special features of fluoroplastics: 

●     It has a high potential for welding as well as re-moulding,

●     It can nonchalantly operate under temperatures ranging from -200°C to +200°C and under cryogenic temperatures, FEP remains super flexible,

●     It is highly resistant to chemicals and Ultra-violet rays,

●     It is bio-compatible and clear in colour.

Because FEP heat shrink has a low shrink temperature, it can be safely shrunk over temperature-sensitive objects without causing injury. As a result, FEP is an excellent material for encapsulating delicate electrical components and instruments.

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3.  PFA (Perfluoralkoxy):

Perfluoralkoxy, or PFA, is a high-temperature variant of FEP. PFA has similar qualities to FEP but, due to its lower melt viscosity than PTFE, may be employed at working temperatures of up to +260°C while remaining melt-processable.

In addition to the unique features of fluoropolymers, PFA distinguishes itself by offering the following advantages:

●     It can continuously work at 260°C+ temperature just as PTFE,

●     It has a high potential for welding as well as re-moulding,

●     It has good resistance to permeability,

●     It is highly resistant to chemicals even while working at high temperatures,

●     It is bio-compatible and has a clear colour.

PFA's primary disadvantage is that it is more expensive than PTFE and FEP. 

PFA is appropriate for applications requiring a higher purity grade, superior chemical resistance, and a high working temperature. This fluoroplastic is commonly utilised in medical tubing, heat exchangers, semi-conductor baskets, pumps and fittings, valve liners, and valve liners.