What are the advantages of PTFE seals over rubber seals? | Insights by Polypac

1. Chemical Resistance: Ensuring Integrity in Harsh Environments

PTFE seals exhibit exceptional chemical resistance, making them ideal for applications involving aggressive media. Unlike rubber seals, which may degrade when exposed to strong acids, bases, or solvents, PTFE remains inert, ensuring the integrity of the sealing system in chemical processing environments.

2. Temperature Tolerance: Maintaining Performance Across Extremes

PTFE seals can withstand continuous temperatures up to 260°C (500°F) and short-term exposures up to 300°C (572°F), suitable for high-temperature applications such as engine compartments and chemical reactors. In contrast, rubber seals have lower temperature resistance, with materials like Nitrile rubber suitable up to 120°C (248°F).

3. Friction Properties: Enhancing Efficiency and Longevity

PTFE seals possess a very low coefficient of friction, reducing wear and tear in dynamic applications like valves and pumps. This property enhances efficiency and extends equipment lifespan. Rubber seals, with moderate friction resistance, may wear down more quickly under continuous sliding or rubbing conditions.

4. Durability and Lifespan: Reducing Maintenance Costs

PTFE seals are extremely durable, resistant to abrasion and aging, leading to a longer lifespan even under extreme conditions. This durability reduces the frequency of replacements and maintenance costs. Rubber seals, however, may require more frequent replacement in aggressive or high-temperature applications due to susceptibility to hardening, cracking, or degradation over time.

5. Cost Considerations: Evaluating Total Cost of Ownership

While PTFE seals are typically more expensive upfront due to material and machining costs, their longer life and lower maintenance can make them more economical over the asset lifecycle, particularly in high-cycle or harsh environments. Elastomers are usually less expensive initially but may require more frequent replacement in aggressive or high-temperature applications. When specifying piston seals, evaluate total cost of ownership, not only unit price. ((https://www.polypacseals.com/piston-seal-ptfe-vs-rubber/))

Conclusion: Polypac's Advantages in Seal Manufacturing

Polypac offers a comprehensive range of sealing solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of the seal manufacturing industry. With expertise in both PTFE and rubber seals, Polypac provides high-quality products that ensure reliability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Their commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction makes them a preferred partner for procurement decisions in seal manufacturing.

References

• Parker O-Ring Handbook and Parker PTFE material datasheets — material properties and sealing guidance.
• SKF Sealing Solutions technical guides — sealing principles and extrusion/back-up ring recommendations.
• MatWeb material property database — PTFE and elastomer typical property ranges.
• Trelleborg Sealing Profiles and materials guides — elastomer performance and chemical compatibility charts.
• Manufacturer datasheets for filled PTFE grades (bronze/carbon/graphite/MoS₂-filled PTFE) — wear and thermal properties.