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What is the difference between skived and extruded PTFE?
Skived PTFE and Extruded PTFE are two variations of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) with distinct characteristics and applications. PTFE is a synthetic fluoropolymer with exceptional chemical resistance, low friction coefficient, and high-temperature stability. Understanding the differences between skived and extruded PTFE is crucial when selecting the right material for specific applications. So, let's delve into the topic and explore the dissimilarities between skived and extruded PTFE.
Skived and extruded PTFE differ in their production techniques, resulting in variations in their physical properties and performance. Here are the key points of comparison:
1. Production Process:
- Skived PTFE: Skiving is a process that involves shaving thin layers of PTFE from a solid block using a sharp blade. Skived PTFE is manufactured by compressing PTFE powder into a billet or slab and then skiving it into thin sheets.
- Extruded PTFE: Extrusion is the process of forcing molten PTFE resin through a die to form a continuous profile. Extruded PTFE is produced by melting the PTFE resin and extruding it into a solid shape, such as rods, tubes, or sheets.
2. Physical Properties:
- Skived PTFE: Skived PTFE exhibits excellent flexibility and conformability due to its thin nature. It is available in thinner gauges compared to extruded PTFE. Skived PTFE also has a smoother surface finish, making it suitable for applications where low friction is required.
- Extruded PTFE: Extruded PTFE, on the other hand, is more rigid and has higher mechanical strength due to its denser structure. It is available in various shapes and sizes, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
3. Thickness Range:
- Skived PTFE: Skived PTFE is typically available in thicknesses ranging from 0.001 inches to 0.250 inches (0.0254 mm to 6.35 mm). This thinness makes it ideal for applications where space or weight constraints are crucial.
- Extruded PTFE: Extruded PTFE is available in a broader thickness range compared to skived PTFE. It can vary from thin films to several inches thick, depending on the application requirements.
4. Performance Characteristics:
- Skived PTFE: Skived PTFE possesses excellent dielectric properties, making it an excellent choice for electrical insulation applications. Its conformability allows it to fit irregular or uneven surfaces snugly. However, skived PTFE is less resistant to creep, which refers to the deformation that occurs under mechanical stress over time.
- Extruded PTFE: Extruded PTFE offers superior creep resistance and dimensional stability due to its denser structure. It is also known for its excellent chemical resistance and low friction properties. Extruded PTFE is commonly used in applications requiring mechanical strength, such as gaskets, seals, bearings, and piston rings.
In conclusion, skived and extruded PTFE differ in their production processes, physical properties, and performance characteristics. Skived PTFE is more flexible, conformable, and ideal for applications with specific thickness requirements and low friction needs. On the other hand, extruded PTFE offers better mechanical strength, creep resistance, and wider thickness options, making it suitable for various demanding applications. When selecting between skived and extruded PTFE, factors such as intended application, dimensional requirements, and performance expectations should be carefully considered to ensure optimal material selection.
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