PTFE
Polytetrafluoroethylene for low-friction bearings, seals, wire insulation and coatings.
Overview
PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) is a fluoropolymer used for low-friction bearings, seals, wire insulation, gaskets and some release or anti-stick coatings. Extreme chemical inertness and a very low friction coefficient are the reasons it is specified. It is not an FKM elastomer and not a structural plastic. PTFE is a high-melt fluoropolymer, often filled (glass, bronze, carbon) for wear parts, or used as tape and insulation for wiring. Processed by compression moulding, ram extrusion or as coatings — not conventional injection moulding of unfilled resin. Recyclable only in specialised fluoropolymer streams.
Automotive Applications
Similar Materials
PA12
Polyamide 12
Unreinforced polyamide 12 for fuel and air lines, distinct from PA12/CF composite.
ETFE / FEP / PFA
Fluoropolymer
ETFE, FEP and PFA are melt-processable fluoropolymers offering outstanding chemical resistance, wide temperature capability and excellent dielectric properties for automotive wiring, tubing and protective films.
Tungsten
Refractory Metal
The metal with the highest melting point of any element, used in automotive applications for electrode materials, counterweights, and high-temperature components.
Zirconium
Refractory Metal
Zirconium is a lustrous, silver-grey transition metal known for its exceptional corrosion resistance and high melting point. In the automotive industry, it is utilized both as a pure metal for specialized coatings and in the form of zirconium dioxide for high-performance ceramic components.
Properties
Category
Type
Fluoropolymer
Available Forms
Key Properties
- Very low friction
- Chemically inert fluoropolymer
- High-temperature capability
- Distinct from FKM elastomer
- Not conventionally injection-moulded unfilled
- Specialised recycling stream