expanded ptfe, eptfe
In one of our other posts, we discussed conventional PTFE plastic materials. Generally, we are cutting films, up to .020’’ in thickness. However, when the material is expanded and becomes mostly air, we can cut materials that are much thicker with conventional die-cutting processes. When PTFE is expanded, it then becomes ePTFE or expanded PTFE material.
Properties of Expanded PTFE(ePTFE)
WL Gore first discovered expanded PTFE in 1969 after rapidly pulling a PTFE rod apart. When PTFE is expanded, it allows PTFE to be lightweight, and pliable but will still have many of the properties of conventional PTFE. They are clean, and non-toxic materials. Also similar to virgin PTFE these materials are highly chemically resistant, only being affected by molten alkali metal and elemental fluorine. It is also UV resistant, and chemically inert. These materials have a wide temperature range usually from -450° to 600°F, and are compressible because they are soft. These materials are easily die-cuttable. Applications are numerous – ranging from mining, to power and marine industries. Some expanded PTFE materials are recognized against 21 CFR 177.2600. They are white in color just like virgin PTFE. Typical thicknesses are 1/16’’ and ⅛’’.
More Information
NEDC die-cuts/waterjet cuts these materials into custom gasket shapes. The properties of ePTFE make it a high performance gasketing material by combining its excellent sealbility, along with being easy to cut into custom shapes. These materials can come in wide sheets up to 60’’ wide. For more information on expanded PTFE or you have an application that you feel could utilize an expanded PTFE option, please contact sales@nedc.com.