The key to selecting the right industrial protective coating for substrates is having a solid understanding of what it is you’re considering buying, the benefits it offers, and how it varies from similar products you’re interested in. Let’s say, for example, that you’ve found yourself looking at polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE) coating and perfluoroalkoxy (PFA) coating. While similar, there are differences that will determine which you use for industrial purposes. Here’s what you need to know about the differences between PTFE and PFA coatings so you can select the right one for your purposes. Once you’re confident that you’re ready to choose an industrial protective coating, Sun Coating Company is here to help you source the best coatings for your needs!
What Are PTFE and PFA Coatings?
PTFE is a compound that might not sound too familiar until you hear the name Teflon. PTFE is a fluoropolymer that most might associate with cookware, although it is used in manufacturing as well. PTFE is a common coating for parts like gears, slide bearings, and similar parts that grind against each other. It offers a wide range of benefits, like low friction, chemical resistance, and abrasion resistance. So what is PFA? PFA is another fluoropolymer designed by Teflon. It offers many of the same benefits as PTFE, which is to be expected as both are products of Teflon. But that begs the question: If both of these protective coatings are so similar, what is the difference between the two? How do you determine which one you choose, whether you’re looking into automotive Teflon coating companies or other industries?
What Are the Key Differences Between the Two?
PTFE and PFA coatings are largely similar, but there are some minor distinctions that will determine how they’re applied and whether you use them in your operations. Key differences between PTFE and PFA coatings include:
- Thickness: PFA is thicker than PTFE, which is an important consideration when seeking to extend the life and durability of equipment.
- Temperature Resistance: PTFE and PFA are said to have around the same temperature resistance. Some say that PFA is better than PTFE in this regard, while others state that the opposite is true. It’s best to assume that you’re going to have the same degree of heat resistance whether you choose PFA or PTFE to ensure that you receive the desired benefits.
- Hydrophobic Properties: Water and weathering are a much larger concern with PFA coatings than with PTFE coatings. The latter is hydrophobic.
- Flexibility: PFA is more flexible than PTFE, but it’s important to note that it has a much lower flex life by comparison.
- Dielectric Strength: PFA’s dielectric strength is several times stronger than PTFE.
- Chemical Resistance: PFA is said to be more resistant to chemicals than PTFE, although it is vulnerable to certain chemicals such as fluorine atoms and alkali.
- Price: PFA costs a bit more due to its production process, making PTFE the more cost-effective option of the two.
PTFE and PFA coatings offer many of the same advantages and disadvantages, but they have distinct ones as well. Before you select either PTFE or PFA coatings for your industrial needs, take care to carefully research both and understand how these differences can impact their applications in your facilities.
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Sun Coating Company is your source for custom industrial coatings. Whether you’re interested in Sandstrom Coating or many of the other brands and proprietary blends we carry, we can help you find the right industrial protective coating that will offer you the best results, no matter what industry you’re in or the reason for needing protective coating. If you’re ready to support your business operations, get in touch with us to request your quote today!