The Difference Between PFA and PTFE Products
If only the endless number of tubes and hoses that snake through a commercial or industrial worksite had a one-size-fits-all solution when it came to length and attachments. Sadly, that’s not the case, and all those crucial components require a little bit of help to work alongside your machinery. That’s where a good set of PTFE or PFA fittings in San Jose, CA can make the difference between a smooth workday and a real disaster.
But what is the difference between these two popular fitting types, and what purpose do they serve on the job? Read on to find out!
Polytetrafluoroethylene at a glance
Polytetrafluoroethylene—or PTFE for those without a degree in chemistry—was discovered in the 1950s. As you might expect, PTFE fittings have an extremely high resistance to heat and an innately nonstick surface. PTFE products are also referred to by their brand name, Teflon.
Because the melting point of PTFE is so high, it must be formed with extreme care. PTFE fittings begin their life in a powdered form. This powder is mixed, formed and turned into a thick paste. This paste is forged into the final tube shape that goes to work in your factory or worksite.
A quick look at perfluoroalkoxy alkane
Though shorter than “polytetrafluoroethylene,” the word “perfluoroalkoxy” is no easier to spell or pronounce. That’s why it’s most commonly called PFA. PFA fittings in San Jose, CA are known for their incredible flexibility and resistance to chemical degradation. PFA fittings are an excellent choice when a company is funneling potentially toxic or corrosive materials through a tube or hose.
PFA’s primary strength is its ability to be melt-processed, the act by which a liquid substance is formed into a solid structure. Melt-processing allows PFA a higher thermal stability than PTFE. The material also has an improved flow rate.
Your fittings expert
Not sure if you need PFA or PTFE fittings in San Jose, CA? No worries! Turn to Royal Brass Incorporated, where our staff of knowledgeable professionals is ready and waiting to help you find the perfect part for you. In addition to fittings of all sorts, we have a massive assortment of adapters, flanges, gauges, hose crimpers, hose swagers, O-rings, quick couplings, regulators, valves and more. We’re also happy to provide tube fabrication equipment as well as a variety of tubes and hoses. If it’s not under our roof, you probably don’t need it.
As a third-generation family owned and operated business, we understand that customer service and a willingness to educate are the only way to operate a successful company over the long term. That’s how we’ve managed to keep our doors open since 1952. We have more than half a century of experience and a team filled with factory-trained sales professionals ready to meet your needs. What are you waiting for? Give Royal Brass Incorporated a call or stop by our warehouse showroom to have a look around. We look forward to showing you our products and demonstrating what we can do for you!
Categorised in: Tube Fittings