June 3, 2024
PTFE gaskets have become the gold standard for watertight, airtight, sustainable seals. Sealing components made from PTFE are used in sectors as diverse as oil and gas, chemical processing, food & beverage, marine, mining, Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) services, pharmaceuticals, power generation, pulp and paper, and water utilities.
In this complete guide to PTFE gasket material, we’ll explore what PTFE is, the types of PTFE gasket sheets available, key benefits, and how to choose the right PTFE gasket for your specific application.
What is PTFE Sheet Gasket Material?
PTFE, or Polytetrafluoroethylene, is a synthetic fluoropolymer of tetrafluoroethylene. What makes this material so useful is that it is extremely water-resistant and non-reactive. It has minimal friction and is extremely resistant to most chemicals, including those that are known for their corrosive properties. The primary qualities of PTFE gasket material include:
- Temperature Resilience: PTFE gaskets are made to resist extreme temperatures, ranging from -212°C to 260°C.
- Chemical Resistance: PTFE can withstand even the most aggressive substances, which makes them ideal for any industrial processes that involve the use of corrosive chemicals.
- Low Friction: PTFE has an extremely low coefficient of friction, making it ideal for applications where a non-stick surface is required.
- Electrical Insulation: PTFE has high insulation resistance and a low dielectric constant of 2.0. As a result, these gaskets do not conduct electricity and are perfect for applications where electrical insulation is an important requirement.
- Non-adhesive: PTFE has a low coefficient of friction and a non-stick surface, preventing materials from adhering to it.
The Benefits of Using PTFE Gasket Sheet Material
Due to the characteristics listed above, PTFE is an extremely effective sealing solution for several applications. Its benefits include:
- Uses across a wide temperature range: From sub-zero conditions to temperatures approaching 500°F (260°C), PTFE gaskets provide dependable sealing of an extremely high standard.
- Compressibility and conformability: PTFE is versatile and adaptable. PTFE gaskets can be adjusted for uneven flange surfaces.
- Electrical safety and insulation: In applications where electrical isolation is important, PTFE gaskets are the best choice.
- Easy cleaning and non-stick properties: These gaskets are extremely easy to clean and maintain.
- Non-toxic: PTFE gaskets are suitable for food, beverage, and drinking water applications.
- Versatile: Gaskets made from PTFE sheets are used in a broad array of industries, creating reliable and versatile sealing in all kinds of applications.
Different Types of PTFE Gaskets
Durlon offers several engineered PTFE gasket solutions, each designed to solve specific sealing challenges in aggressive or critical applications:
Durlon® 9000
A modified PTFE gasket with non-wicking fillers to prevent corrosion on flange faces. Ideal for highly aggressive chemical environments.
Durlon® 9000N
A near-identical variant to 9000, formulated for general industrial chemical use, with optimized filler shape for minimal leakage.
Durlon® 9002
A glass-filled PTFE gasket engineered for extreme cryogenic temperatures. Manufactured without secondary processing, making it easy to convert and cut.
Durlon® 9200
Blends barium sulfate with PTFE resin for improved strength and chemical resistance in harsh environments.
Durlon® 9400
A premium-filled PTFE gasket used for aggressive chemical applications, including hydrofluoric acid (HF) service. Approved for use in anhydrous hydrogen fluoride (AHF) tank cars.
Durlon® 9600
A biaxially expanded PTFE (ePTFE) gasket. Offers superior sealability, flexibility, and performance on irregular flange surfaces. Will not cold flow or harden like some virgin or filled PTFE products.
Durlon® Virgin PTFE
Unfilled, pure PTFE gasket material for applications requiring maximum chemical purity and inertness.
How to Choose the Right PTFE Gasket Material for Your Needs
When choosing a PTFE gasket sheet material, several factors need to be considered to ensure it meets the specific requirements of your application. Here are the key considerations:
Chemical Resistance: Assess the chemical environment the gasket will be exposed to. PTFE is highly resistant to most chemicals, but you should ensure it can withstand the specific chemicals in your application.
Operating Temperatures: Determine the minimum and maximum temperatures the gasket will experience. PTFE performs well across a wide temperature range, but verifying its suitability for extreme conditions is crucial.
Pressure Levels: Evaluate the operating pressure. PTFE gaskets can handle a range of pressures, but high-pressure applications may require reinforced or filled PTFE materials.
Strength and Durability: Consider the mechanical stress the gasket will endure. Ensure the PTFE material has the necessary tensile strength and compressive properties.
Leakage Prevention: Ensure the gasket material provides a tight seal to prevent leaks. This is especially important in applications involving hazardous or valuable substances.
Dimensions: Choose the appropriate thickness and size for your application. The thickness can affect the gasket’s ability to seal and its overall performance.
Surface Requirements: Ensure the gasket’s surface finish and flatness match the flange or surface it will be sealing against. Imperfections can compromise the seal.
Industry Standards: Verify if the PTFE gasket material complies with relevant industry standards and certifications, such as FDA approval for food and pharmaceutical applications.
Applications of PTFE Gaskets
Durlon PTFE gaskets are used extensively across a wide range of industries:
- Oil and Gas: Resistant to hydrocarbons, sour gas, and aggressive fluids.
- Chemical Processing: Excellent for acids, solvents, and caustics.
- Pharmaceutical and Biotech: Clean, non-leaching, and FDA-compliant options available.
- Food and Beverage: Safe for direct food contact and potable water systems.
- Power Generation: Thermal resistance and chemical inertness are ideal for steam and process media.
- Water and Wastewater: Long-lasting seals for corrosive and variable environments.
- Mining: Withstand abrasive, chemical, and pressure extremes.
- OEM Manufacturing: Custom-cut PTFE gaskets for machinery and equipment
Why Choose Durlon for PTFE Gaskets?
With over 40 years of expertise, Durlon Sealing Solutions is a trusted name in high-performance sealing. We design and manufacture advanced PTFE gasket materials for mission-critical applications, supported by ISO 9001-certified processes and sustainability-focused R&D.
Whether you need expanded PTFE, filled PTFE, or virgin PTFE gaskets, our team can help you select the right material to improve sealing reliability, reduce downtime, and meet stringent compliance standards.
Contact us for more information about our PTFE gaskets.