PTFE Film, or Polytetrafluoroethylene Film, is a versatile and highly engineered material known for its exceptional chemical resistance, wide service temperature range, excellent dielectric properties, and a remarkably low coefficient of friction. This semi-transparent to opaque film is manufactured from 100% virgin PTFE resin through processes like skiving from a molded billet or casting. Its unique combination of properties makes it an indispensable component across a vast array of demanding industries, from aerospace and medical devices to electronics and industrial sealing. As a leading innovator in high-performance polymer solutions, Kaxite Seals produces premium-grade PTFE films that meet the most stringent application requirements, ensuring reliability, durability, and performance.
The widespread adoption of PTFE film is directly attributed to its unparalleled set of inherent characteristics:
Kaxite Seals offers a comprehensive range of PTFE films, available in various grades, thicknesses, and formulations to suit specific needs. Below are the detailed standard specifications for our skived and cast PTFE films.
| Property | Test Method | Standard Grade | Reinforced Grade | High-Purity Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thickness Range | ASTM D374 | 0.025mm - 3.0mm | 0.05mm - 2.0mm | 0.013mm - 1.5mm |
| Width Range | - | Up to 1500mm | Up to 1200mm | Up to 1000mm |
| Tensile Strength (MD) | ASTM D882 | 20 - 35 MPa | 25 - 45 MPa | 15 - 25 MPa |
| Elongation at Break | ASTM D882 | 200 - 400% | 150 - 300% | 250 - 500% |
| Dielectric Strength | ASTM D149 | > 100 kV/mm | > 90 kV/mm | > 120 kV/mm |
| Continuous Service Temp. | - | -240°C to +260°C | -240°C to +260°C | -240°C to +260°C |
| Specific Gravity | ASTM D792 | 2.15 - 2.20 | 2.20 - 2.30 | 2.14 - 2.18 |
| Property | Test Method | Clear Cast Film | Adhesive-Backed Film |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thickness Range | ASTM D374 | 0.025mm - 0.25mm | 0.05mm - 0.5mm (total) |
| Clarity | Visual | High (Semi-transparent) | Medium to Low |
| Tensile Strength | ASTM D882 | 10 - 20 MPa | Varies by substrate |
| Elongation at Break | ASTM D882 | 100 - 300% | Varies by substrate | Primary Application | - | Release layers, windows, membranes | Gasketing, laminates, surface protection |
Q: What is the main difference between skived and cast PTFE film?
A: Skived PTFE film is produced by shaving thin layers from a solid, sintered PTFE billet, resulting in a denser, stronger film with superior mechanical properties, ideal for gaskets and heavy-duty insulation. Cast PTFE film is made by dispersing PTFE powder in a liquid carrier and casting it onto a belt, then sintering. It is thinner, more conformable, and can be optically clearer, making it perfect for release liners and delicate electronic applications.
Q: Can PTFE film be heat sealed or welded?
A: Standard PTFE film cannot be heat sealed using conventional methods because it does not melt. However, specialized techniques like hot air welding (with a compatible PTFE welding rod) or thermal bonding with the aid of adhesives or other fusible materials are used to join PTFE films. For assemblies, mechanical fastening or adhesive bonding with specially formulated epoxies is common.
Q: Is PTFE film safe for food contact and medical use?
A: Yes, pure, virgin PTFE film from a reputable manufacturer like Kaxite Seals is generally recognized as safe for food contact applications and is USP Class VI compliant for medical device use. It is inert, non-toxic, and does not leach chemicals. It is critical to ensure the film is manufactured without any processing aids or additives that are not approved for such sensitive applications.
Q: How does temperature affect the performance of PTFE film?
A: PTFE film maintains its flexibility and mechanical integrity across an extremely broad temperature range. Its properties remain stable from deep cryogenic levels up to +260°C. Above 260°C, gradual degradation begins, but it can withstand short excursions to 300°C. Unlike many plastics, it does not become brittle at low temperatures.
Q: Can PTFE film be laminated or coated with other materials?
A: Absolutely. PTFE film is often laminated to substrates like fiberglass, polyester, or other polymers to create composite materials with enhanced strength, dimensional stability, or adhesive properties. Kaxite Seals offers adhesive-backed PTFE films and can provide custom laminations to meet specific design requirements, such as creating a peel-and-stick surface or combining it with conductive layers.
Q: What are the handling and fabrication considerations for PTFE film?
A: PTFE film is soft and can be easily cut with razor blades, die-cut, or stamped. However, it has a tendency to creep or cold flow under sustained load, so designs for sealing applications must account for this using proper flange design and bolt load. When machining, use sharp tools to prevent tearing. Clean the surface with solvents like isopropyl alcohol to remove contaminants before bonding.
Q: Does Kaxite Seals offer custom formulations or colors of PTFE film?
A: Yes, at Kaxite Seals, we specialize in engineering solutions. Beyond our standard white and natural films, we can produce films in various colors (black, blue, etc.) using compatible, thermally stable pigments. We also offer filled compounds, incorporating materials like glass fiber, carbon, or bronze to enhance wear resistance, reduce creep, or improve thermal conductivity for specific applications.