ETFE / Tefzel

Ethylene tetrafluoroethylene, ETFE, a fluorine based plastic, was designed to have high corrosion resistance and strength over a wide temperature range. ETFE is a polymer and its source-based name is poly(ethene-co-tetrafluoroethene). ETFE has a very high melting temperature, excellent chemical, electrical and high energy radiation resistance properties. When burned ETFE releases hydrofluoric acid.

ETFE (ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene modified copolymer) is often referred by its trade name, Tefzel. ETFE provides excellent resistance to chemicals, abrasion, corrosion and weather as well as excellent mechanical strength and stiffness. It also has a low dielectric constant, uniform electrical properties, a continuous service temperature of 300° F and retains its abrasion resistance at temperatures ranging from -300° F to 300° F. Low friction and good electrical and thermal insulation also can be found in ETFE. Typical applications include cryogenics, compressor and pump linings and components, bearings, gaskets, wire insulation, electrical components, process vessels, wires and cables, and food and pharmaceutical packaging films.

Tefzel ETFE fluoropolymer resin combines mechanical toughness with an exceptional chemical inertness that approaches that of Teflon fluoropolymer resins. Tefzel ETFE fluoropolymer resin features easy processability and excellent mechanical properties. Most grades are rated for continuous exposure at elevated temperatures, depending on the design life and application. Ideal for injection molding or thin-wall extrusion, Tefzel ETFE fluoropolymer resin is available in pellet or powder form for rotational molding.

ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) is a melt-processible fluoropolymer with superior mechanical toughness and outstanding chemical inertness approaching that of PTFE. Its tensile strength and flexuralmodulus are nearly double that of other fluoropolymers. ETFE demonstrates a uniformity of electrical properties and is useful as a low loss dielectric material, making it an excellent insulator. ETFE is used for wire and cable jacketing, tubing, chemical linings, pump impellers, and other componenets of chemical processing equipment. ETFE's relative cost factor versus PTFE is approximately 2.75 to 1.

Tefzel is a modified ETFE (ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene) fluoroplastic available as pellets or as powder for rotational molding. Tefzel ETFE resin combines superior mechanical toughness with an outstanding chemical inertness that approaches that of Teflon fluoroplastic resins. Tefzel features easy processibility, a specific gravity of 1.7, and high-energy radiation resistance. Most grades are rated for continuous exposure at 150°C (302°F), based on the 20,000-hr criterion. 

Processing

Tefzel ETFE fluoroplastic resins are processed by conventional melt-extrusion techniques and by injection, compression, transfer, rotational, and blow molding processes. The relatively high flow rate of these ETFE resins provides higher rates with less draw-down, as compared to those required for Teflon FEP and PFA. Reciprocating screw injection molding machines are preferred. Long extruder barrels, relative to diameter, should be used to provide residence time for melting these high-temperature resins.

Key Properties

Excellent chemical and abrasion resistance

High Purity

Low and high temperature capability

Good electrical and thermal insulation

Excellent mechanical strength

Standard Shapes and Forms

Sheet: .250” – .750” thick

Rod: .125” – 8” diameter

Other Forms: Tubing and Film

ETFE / Tefzel Pictures