PTFE Tubing - One Product, Countless Applications

When it comes to Fluoropolymer Tubing, there are more than one resin with different make up and slightly different properties. While FEP and PFA are also commonly used for tubing, the most preferred polymer in this regard has always been PTFE or what we generally call Teflon.

PTFE Teflon tubing is preferred for several reasons and there are many factors that set it apart in tubing manufacturing. The first and foremost of the factors that make it a better option is its low coefficient of friction. If you didn’t already know it, it has the lowest of all the known solids. Other than that, it retains the innate properties of fluorocarbon polymers such as high resistance to chemicals, corrosion, and high temperatures.

So, what do all these properties mean?

It means that PTFE tubing is actually used in a multitude of industries and has a plethora of applications. Here are some of the common ones worth knowing.

Aerospace &Transportation

When it comes to aerospace and transportation technology, PTFE tubing is usually used inside a stainless steel mesh hose. These hoses work more efficiently than regular hoses with rubber tubing as Teflon is hardly affected by the abrasive qualities of fluids used in engines. Due to less friction, PTFE tubes can greatly improve the overall efficiency.

Medical

This may be one of the least known applications of PTFE tubes, but they are quickly replacing the regular tubes used for medical purposes. Due to high lubricity, the tubes are now being used in catheters as they prevent abrasive damage to any other organ or body part.  More and more medical caregivers and healthcare providers are now switching to PTFE tubes from regular tubes.

Chemical Applications

Chemical processing and manufacturing industries require containers and apparatus that don’t react to the product. Teflon is essentially the most inert and durable of all substances known and used in industries. Therefore, PTFE is generally used instead of glass, plastic, metal, or any other material that might react with the chemical contained in it.

Electronics

PTFE also has excellent dielectric properties that make Teflon tubes a well suited option when it comes to insulation of high voltage cables. PTFE tubing is also used for the purpose of isolating conductive surfaces in capacitors.

These are just some of the application of PTFE tubing. Click here to learn more about what makes PTFE the most preferred polymer for these applications.