PFA – Perfluoroalkoxy Applications

Originally invented by DuPont, and sold under their PTFE brandname, Perfluoroalkoxy (abbreviated PFA) resin and film is currently available from a number of manufacturers. It is a thermoplastic resin with properties very similar to FEP . PFA has a slightly higher melting point than FEP yet is still processable using conventional melt processing techniques. PFA film is available with one or both sides etched for bonding. PFA is typically used in high purity applications.

Benefits & Liabilities of PTFE

Benefits

• Wide thermal operating range from -160C to 260 C
• Excellent corrosion resistance
• Excellent Chemical resistance
• Low coefficient of friction
• Excellent resistance to UV and x-ray radiation
• Can be sterilized
• Smooth surface texture
• Flame retardant
• FDA compliant
• Good electrical insulation

Liabilities

• Very High cost
• Low abrasion resistance
• Processing at high temps and slow rates due to molecular weight
• Cold flow
• Difficult to stick to