Properties of PTFE

The main properties of PTFE, which define its key areas of application include:

High melting point and enhanced mechanical strength.

Almost all engineering applications require washers which can withstand the high magnitude of stress and tension. Even though its mechanical properties are lower than a number of plastic materials, it can retain its intrinsic properties over a wide range of temperature (between -73 degrees Celsius and 204 degrees Celsius).

These unique properties are due to its unique molecular structure which has both Carbon-Carbon and Carbon-Fluorine bonds which form some of the strongest bonds. It I due to these strong bonds that a higher amount of thermal energy is required to breakdown the material.

To enhance the mechanical properties, certain fillers such as Bronze, Molybdenum, Carbon, Disulphide and Graphite can be used. The PTFE fillers have been reinforced with fillers still maintaining their intrinsic properties. Washers form an important component in any assembly process since they help to distribute the force exerted by bolts and nuts on a particular surface. It should be able to resist the force due to compression while withstanding heat, which is associated with the process.

Low Coefficient of Friction

PTFE has lower interfacial forces between other materials and its surface. This makes it retain its shape over a long period of time hence, other substances can easily slide on any surface coated with PTFE. Usually, when sliding begins, the PTFE surface fractures and small lumps are transferred to the surface which it should slide against the washer.

The lumps are spread as the sliding continues while the surface of the PTFE also drags out to form an organized layer. This implies that the resulting surface which will be sliding against each other will possess well organized molecules.