Materials engineering guide
PTFE vs Teflon: What engineers and buyers need to know
A practical comparison of terminology, filler grades, operating limits and chemical performance for selecting PTFE components.
Is PTFE the same as Teflon™?
Polytetrafluoroethylene, or PTFE, is a fluoropolymer discovered in 1938 by chemist Roy Plunkett. Teflon™ is a trademark associated with fluoropolymer products. In simple terms, Teflon may describe branded PTFE, while PTFE is the generic engineering material. A procurement specification should therefore state the polymer grade, filler, dimensions and test requirements rather than relying on a trade name alone.
Virgin and filled PTFE selection matrix
| Grade | Elongation | Wear resistance | Typical duty | Selection advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virgin PTFE | Highest | High | General purpose | High elongation, purity, electrical insulation and broad chemical resistance |
| 25% Glass-filled | Moderate | Improved | Static seals, valve seats | Reduced creep and improved compressive strength |
| 25% Carbon-filled | Moderate | High | Dynamic seals, guide bushes | Improved wear resistance and thermal conductivity |
| 40% Bronze-filled | Lower | Very high | Bearings, wear pads | High load capacity, dimensional stability and heat dissipation |
Actual tensile, elongation, wear and pressure-velocity performance varies with resin, filler percentage, processing and test method. Confirm values for the selected compound.
Temperature
Common continuous service range of approximately -200°C to +260°C, subject to mechanical load and process conditions.
Low friction
Typical static coefficient of friction is approximately 0.04–0.10, supporting sliding and non-stick applications.
Electrical
Virgin PTFE offers dielectric strength around 32 kV/mm and extremely low water absorption.
Chemical resistance highlights
PTFE is selected for exceptional resistance across strong acids, alkalis and solvents, including demanding media such as aqua regia, hydrofluoric acid, fuming nitric acid and sodium hydroxide. Temperature, pressure, permeability and any filler must still be reviewed for the exact service.
Start with the application
PTFE selection questions
Is PTFE the same as Teflon?
PTFE is the chemical polymer polytetrafluoroethylene. Teflon™ is a trademark used for a family of fluoropolymer products. In everyday industrial use, Teflon is often used as a familiar name for PTFE, but not every PTFE resin is Teflon branded.
What is the maximum continuous operating temperature of PTFE?
Virgin PTFE is commonly specified for continuous service from approximately -200°C to +260°C. Load, pressure, filler, geometry and chemical exposure must be considered for the final design.
When should glass-filled or carbon-filled PTFE be used?
Glass-filled PTFE improves compressive strength and creep resistance. Carbon-filled PTFE improves wear resistance and thermal conductivity, making it suitable for dynamic seals, guide bushes and bearing applications.
Which PTFE grade is suitable for food or pharmaceutical contact?
Virgin PTFE is normally the starting point where purity is critical. The final grade and compliance documentation should be confirmed for the exact medium, temperature and regulatory requirement.