What is the Difference Between PTFE and RPTFE?

PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) and RPTFE (reinforced polytetrafluoroethylene) are both fluoropolymers, but they have some key differences:

1. Reinforcement: RPTFE is a filled PTFE, where several materials are added to exhibit specific molecular characteristics, while PTFE is a virgin material without any reinforcements. RPTFE typically contains 15% to 25% glass fiber reinforcement, which improves its strength and durability.
2. Strength: RPTFE has a higher strength compared to PTFE due to the added reinforcements. PTFE is a weaker material that deforms when exposed to heavy loads and pressure.
3. Chemical and Thermal Resistance: RPTFE offers improved resistance to chemicals and thermal changes due to the presence of reinforcing materials. PTFE, on the other hand, has excellent chemical compatibility for most applications but may not be as resistant to certain chemicals that attack the reinforcing materials in RPTFE.
4. Electrical Conductivity: RPTFE can induce some reactions due to reinforcing materials, while PTFE is inert and non-reactive to alkalis and other aggressive substances.
5. Temperature Range: RPTFE has a higher temperature range (-50℉ to 450℉) compared to PTFE (-50℉ to 400℉).
6. Maximum Pressure: RPTFE can withstand a higher maximum pressure (2,000 psi) than PTFE (1,000 psi).
7. Friction and Wear: RPTFE has a higher friction coefficient and better abrasion resistance due to the presence of glass fibers, while PTFE has a lower friction coefficient and may wear faster than RPTFE.

In summary, RPTFE is a reinforced version of PTFE, offering improved strength, durability, chemical and thermal resistance, and higher temperature and pressure ratings. However, it may be less compatible with certain chemicals that attack the reinforcing materials.

Comparative Table: PTFE vs RPTFE

Here is a table comparing the differences between PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) and RPTFE (reinforced polytetrafluoroethylene):

Key differences between PTFE and RPTFE include:

• Composition: PTFE is composed of only fluorine and carbon bonding, while RPTFE contains reinforcing materials such as glass fibers or carbon in addition to the PTFE units.

• Strength: RPTFE has higher tensile strength, elongation, and maximum pressure compared to PTFE.

• Temperature Range: RPTFE can withstand a higher temperature range compared to PTFE.

• Chemical Resistance: PTFE has excellent chemical resistance, while RPTFE is sensitive to chemicals that attack glass.

• Electrical Properties: PTFE has a higher dielectric breakdown voltage compared to RPTFE.

• Coefficient of Friction: PTFE has a lower coefficient of friction compared to RPTFE.

• Color: PTFE is typically white, while RPTFE has an off-white color.