Enkidu PTFE
Material Information
Generally, PTFE is a tough, flexible, non-resilient material of average tensile strength but with great thermal properties and excellent resistance to chemicals and passage of electric current. The coefficient of friction is unusually low and believed to be lower than any other solids.
Fluorine is an exceptionally reactive element making a strong C-F bond polymerizing to highly crystalline, extremely chemical resistant PTFE moiety.
Free-radical polymerization of tetrafluoroethene (TFE) monomers via suspension technique synthesizes high molecular weight, extremely viscous (1011–1012 poise at 380°C) PTFE white coarse powder. Coarse powder is milled to a fine powder which makes it compoundable to incorporate reinforcements and other additives.
Enkidu virgin PTFE is available in both Free Flow (FF) and Non-Free Flow (NFF).
FF (Free Flowing) can be used for Compression, Semi-Automatic and Isostatic Moulding. FF offers improved handling and better productivity due to not becoming agglomerated during transportation. Free flow also enables thin wall moulds to be filled more easily.
NFF (Non-Free Flowing) is designed for compression moulding and offers advantages when hand filling moulds with thick walls. Non free flow PTFE offers better physical properties than free flow.
The most common fillers and their effect on PTFE
Related Enkilon Grades:
Effect of Fillers
Decreases deformation underload
Increases thermal & electrical conductivity
Increases product weight significantly
Related Enkilon Grades:
Enkilon 1018
Effect of Fillers:
Less abrasive than glass fibre
Increases wear resistance
Decreases deformation under load
Processing Methods
Cold Compression Moulding and Sintering
RAM Extrusion
Auto Moulding
Isostatic Moulding
Moulding and Skiving
Unique Properties and Characteristics
• Very low coefficient of friction
• Low surface energy and non-stick characteristics
• Cold flow under load
• Poor wear properties
• Cryogenic and high-temperature resistance
• Low dielectric constant
• Electrical and thermal insulation
• High ductility
• High inertness
• Non-Flammable
• Low compression modulus allowing enhanced sealing at low pressure.
• Very high chemical resistance to both chemicals and solvents
• Resistance to atmospheric agents and UV rays
• Food, medical and high-purity grades available
• Easy blend ability leading to a vast range of PTFE compounds.
Limitations of PTFE
- Non-melt processable material
- Low tensile yield strength and modulus (when compared against PEEK, LCP, and PPS)
- High wear behaviour in an unfilled state
- Not weldable
- High creep behaviour
- Low radiation resistance
