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At Smartech, we provide a wide range of PTFE coated materials that can be used in a variety of applications across multiple industries. PTFE, or polytetrafluoroethylene, is an incredibly valuable and flexible plastic that is very stable at high temperatures. Most commonly associated with cookware, the average person may know PTFE by brand names like Teflon or Polyflon. PTFE is beneficial because it has good light and UV resistance, good weather resistance, high chemical resistance, and is great for anti-adhesion purposes. Additionally, PTFE is available in sheets at Smartech, as well as granular PTFE, PTFE powder, and PTFE dispersions.

PTFE is used to provide a non-stick coating on pots and pans, but it also has high-performance applications in various industries. When applications require high heat as well as high purity and chemical inertness, PTFE is most commonly used. To learn more about PTFE and its applications across industries, here are 7 industries that use PTFE.

1. Food & Beverage
PTFE is used in the food and beverage industries to create non-stick and heat-resistant coatings on pots, pans, and other kitchen and cooking appliances like microwaves, coffee makers, blenders, and even waffle irons. PTFE is also good for electrical insulation, which makes it an optimal use for pipe liners, seals, and coatings. Unlike other synthetic resin options, PTFE is more durable and withstands consistent use at higher temperatures. PTFE is a valuable addition to the food and beverage industry due to its non-stick properties and food-safe grades.

2. Construction
PTFE applications and uses are also found in the construction industry because it can function effectively as an electrical insulator. The construction industry utilizes PTFE to encase and protect electrical wiring because its properties are resistant to high temperatures, water, and chemicals. Gas line pipes and hoses can also be made out of PTFE. Construction tools can also be enhanced and strengthened by a PTFE coating. PTFE is widely valued in the construction industry due to its resistance to corrosion and abrasion.

3. Chemical Processing & Manufacturing
The chemical manufacturing and processing industries also utilize PTFE because of its ability to transport corrosive chemicals and materials. PTFE can withstand harsher environments necessary for chemical manufacturing and processing while also adding an additional layer of protection. This industry also depends on a product like PTFE that will not melt or erode when used continuously with chemicals and at high temperatures.

4. Automotive
PTFE uses also extend to the automotive industry due to its high-temperature resistance and thermal stability for engine parts as well as vehicle exteriors. PTFE offers leak-proof technologies with longer lifespans and more reliability at high speeds and temperatures. The automotive industry utilizes PTFE applications due to its resistance to the corrosive chemicals in lubricants and fuels. PTFE is also resistant to flames and will be more resilient in equipment that regularly operates under more extreme conditions. Applications of PTFE in the automotive industry include fuel hose lining, gaskets, O-rings, valve stem seals, and shalt seals. PTFE is also water-resistant and even repels water, which makes it perfect for automobile wiper blades and glass windshields.

5. Electrical
The electrical industry utilizes PTFE in manufacturing insulation, semiconductor parts, and circuit boards. Both electronics and electrical applications continue to increase usage and application of PTFE due to its high-quality insulation properties under the harshest of conditions. The electrical industry relies on PTFE to withstand high temperatures and corrosive chemicals and materials while still providing the design flexibility necessary. Fillers like copper can be added to PTFE to increase its conductivity for electrical and thermal purposes.

6. Medical
The medical industry employs PTFE due to its medical-grade components for use in medical devices like cardiovascular grafts, heart patches, and ligament replacements. PTFE is also part of items that are used regularly in the medical industry such as medical instruments and testing equipment, such as sutures, catheters, and forceps. Medical devices and instruments depend on the high chemical resistance and friction resistance of PTFE that also complies with FDA regulations and standards of care.

7. Solar Panel Manufacturing
The solar panel manufacturing industry uses PTFE because it can regularly withstand temperatures as high as 260 degrees Celsius. PTFE has good light and UV resistance, good weather resistance, and strong resistance to heat and cold. Solar panel manufacturers rely on PTFE due to its highly durable properties for wide ranges of weather and exposure to the elements. At Smartech, we offer glass sheet PTFE materials for application during the lamination process of solar panels. The PTFE coating on these sheets provides extra durability and resistance to water, chemicals, corrosion, and fluctuating temperatures.

Smartech offers PTFE sheets, including anti-static sheets and sheets with self-adhesive backing. Visit Smartech to learn more about PTFE properties and applications, as well as the wide variety of PTFE coated materials and sheets available.