PTFE & PEEK Seals
High-Performance Polymer Sealing Solutions
PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) and PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) are high-performance engineering materials used in demanding sealing applications where traditional elastomers may not provide the required chemical resistance, temperature capability, pressure resistance, or wear performance.
These materials are commonly used in hydraulic systems, chemical processing equipment, oil and gas applications, semiconductor manufacturing, aerospace systems, and other critical environments where reliability is essential.
At Performance Seals, we supply PTFE and PEEK sealing solutions for applications requiring exceptional performance in aggressive operating conditions.
What Is PTFE?
PTFE is a fluoropolymer best known for its exceptional chemical resistance and low coefficient of friction.
Unlike elastomeric sealing materials such as NBR, EPDM, or FKM, PTFE is a rigid thermoplastic that does not rely on elasticity to create a seal. Instead, PTFE seals are typically designed to use system pressure, spring energizers, or precise interference fits to maintain sealing performance.
Key Benefits of PTFE
- Excellent chemical resistance
- Extremely low friction
- Wide temperature range
- Non-stick surface properties
- Excellent media compatibility
- Suitable for dynamic and rotary applications
- Available in virgin and filled grades
Common PTFE Applications
- Hydraulic seals
- Pneumatic seals
- Rotary shaft seals
- Valve seats
- Backup rings
- Chemical processing equipment
- Food and pharmaceutical equipment
What Is PEEK?
PEEK is an advanced engineering thermoplastic known for its outstanding strength, dimensional stability, and resistance to wear.
While PTFE excels in chemical resistance and low friction, PEEK is often selected when higher mechanical strength and pressure resistance are required.
Key Benefits of PEEK
- Exceptional mechanical strength
- Excellent wear resistance
- High pressure capability
- Outstanding dimensional stability
- Excellent chemical resistance
- High temperature performance
- Resistant to extrusion in demanding applications
Common PEEK Applications
- Backup rings
- Anti-extrusion rings
- Valve components
- Bearing elements
- Compressor components
- Aerospace systems
- Oil and gas equipment
PTFE vs. PEEK
| Property | PTFE | PEEK |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Resistance | Excellent | Excellent |
| Friction | Very Low | Low |
| Flexibility | Higher | Lower |
| Wear Resistance | Good | Excellent |
| Mechanical Strength | Moderate | Excellent |
| Pressure Resistance | Good | Excellent |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
Common PTFE and PEEK Products
Performance Seals can supply:
- PTFE seals
- PTFE piston seals
- PTFE rod seals
- PTFE rotary seals
- Spring energized PTFE seals
- PTFE wear rings
- PTFE backup rings
- PEEK backup rings
- PEEK anti-extrusion rings
- Custom machined PTFE components
- Custom machined PEEK components
Industries Served
PTFE and PEEK sealing solutions are commonly used in:
- Oil & Gas
- Chemical Processing
- Aerospace
- Semiconductor Manufacturing
- Food Processing
- Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
- Hydraulic Equipment
- Industrial Automation
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between PTFE and PEEK?
PTFE is primarily selected for its low friction and exceptional chemical resistance, while PEEK is chosen for its superior strength, wear resistance, and pressure capability.
Can PTFE be used in rotary applications?
Yes. PTFE is commonly used in rotary sealing applications because of its low coefficient of friction and excellent wear characteristics.
Is PEEK stronger than PTFE?
Yes. PEEK has significantly higher mechanical strength and is often used where extrusion resistance and structural support are required.
Are PTFE seals elastic like O-rings?
No. PTFE is a rigid thermoplastic and generally requires special seal designs, energizers, or system pressure to maintain sealing performance.
Can PTFE and PEEK be used together?
Yes. Many sealing systems combine PTFE sealing elements with PEEK backup rings or support components to achieve optimal performance.