Filters
Shape
Availability
No materials found
Try adjusting your filters or browse all materials.
Material Overview
What is PTFE Polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon) — Sheet, Rod & Tube?
PTFE material — polytetrafluoroethylene — is a fully fluorinated polymer whose unique molecular structure gives it properties unmatched by any other commercial thermoplastic: near-universal chemical inertness, an extremely low coefficient of friction, and reliable service from cryogenic temperatures up to 260 °C (500 °F). Ready Plastics stocks PTFE in sheet and rod for machined sealing, bearing, and chemical-handling components across all industries.
PTFE's fluorine-carbon backbone is virtually impervious to chemical attack — it resists almost all acids, bases, solvents, and oxidizing agents. Near-zero moisture absorption and outstanding dielectric strength make PTFE material equally suitable for chemical isolation and electrical insulation applications. Its very low coefficient of friction — among the lowest of any solid material — enables dry-running bearing and seal surfaces that last without external lubrication.
Typical applications include gaskets and seals for chemical processing, guide rails and bearing pads, electrical insulation components, laboratory equipment, and fluid handling systems where contact with aggressive media or the need for a non-contaminating surface is paramount. PTFE is also widely used as a liner and slide material wherever the lowest possible friction between mating surfaces is required.
Ready Plastics stocks PTFE in flat sheet and round rod — available as PTFE sheet, PTFE rod, and custom shapes. For applications requiring higher mechanical strength alongside chemical resistance, consider PVDF — polyvinylidene fluoride, which combines fluoropolymer chemistry with improved tensile and flexural performance. Visit the PTFE product page for dimensions and to request a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
PTFE Polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon) — Sheet, Rod & Tube, answered
What is PTFE material?
PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) is a fully fluorinated thermoplastic with near-universal chemical inertness, one of the lowest coefficients of friction of any solid material, and a service range from cryogenic temperatures to 260 °C. It is used for seals, gaskets, bearings, electrical insulation, and chemical processing components.
What chemicals is PTFE resistant to?
PTFE resists virtually all known acids, bases, solvents, oxidizing agents, and fuels — including concentrated sulfuric acid, hydrofluoric acid, and aqua regia. The only common exceptions are certain molten alkali metals and elemental fluorine at high temperature and pressure.
What shapes does Ready Plastics stock in PTFE?
Ready Plastics stocks PTFE in flat sheet and round rod. Contact us or visit the PTFE product page for current thicknesses, diameters, and cut-to-size options.
Can PTFE be machined?
Yes. PTFE machines well with sharp tooling, though its softness and low stiffness require careful fixturing to prevent deflection. Standard HSS or carbide tooling works well. PTFE cannot be welded or bonded with conventional adhesives; mechanical fastening or press-fit designs are preferred for assembly.
How does PTFE compare to PVDF?
PTFE has broader chemical resistance and a lower coefficient of friction than PVDF. PVDF offers significantly higher tensile strength, better abrasion resistance, and better UV stability. Choose PTFE for maximum chemical inertness and lowest friction; choose PVDF when higher mechanical performance is needed alongside fluoropolymer chemical resistance.
Ready to spec material for your build?
Get a quote on cut-to-size sheets and rods, request a full data sheet, or talk to a plastics engineer. We answer in under two hours, M–F 8am–6pm ET.