PTFE, FEP, PFA & Fluoropolymer Tubing FAQ – Yuzhong Technologys

1. What is PTFE？

PTFE, also known as Teflon®, is the ancestor of all fluoroplastics. It offers exceptional chemical resistance, non-stick performance, and high-temperature tolerance. Its main challenge is that it does not melt, requiring specialized molding, extrusion, and welding techniques.

2. What is FEP？

FEP tubing, or fluorinated ethylene propylene, is a melt-processable fluoropolymer similar to PTFE and PFA. It provides excellent chemical resistance, low friction, high transparency, and can operate up to 200°C. Applications include laboratory piping, automatic sampling, chromatography, medical equipment, and high-temperature cable insulation.

3. What is PFA？

PFA (perfluoroalkoxy) is a melt-processable fluoropolymer with properties similar to PTFE, but with 10× higher elongation and low permeability. PFA withstands temperatures up to 260°C, offering excellent crack resistance, stress resistance, and low friction. Common applications include semiconductor components, valves, pump bushings, and insulating parts.

4. What are the differences between PTFE and FEP?

Both PTFE and FEP belong to Teflon® fluoroplastics. Key differences:

（1） PTFE: -200°C to +260°C, opaque

（2）FEP: -200°C to +200°C, transparent

（3） Both are non-stick, chemically inert, and stable under extreme temperatures

5. How can I make the rubber stick not sticky?

By applying FEP heat-shrinkable tubing coating, standard rubber rollers become non-stick. Coating sleeves are easy to apply, or Yuzhong Technology can provide professional on-site installation.

6. Why is PTFE chemically corroded?

Although PTFE, FEP, and PFA have excellent non-stick properties, chemical etching can remove fluorine atoms to improve adhesion to substrates.

7. Will PTFE, FEP and PFA become brittle at low temperatures?

No. All these fluoropolymers operate reliably down to -200°C without embrittlement.

8. Can you make PTFE tubes with similar tolerances?

Yes. If standard PTFE, FEP, or PFA tubes do not meet your requirements, we can produce tighter ID, OD, or wall thickness tolerances for specific applications.

9. What is the largest size heat shrinkable tube you can produce?

We can produce heat shrink tubing of any diameter using special welding processes. Stock size is up to 175 mm.

10. Can you produce super-thin PTFE tubing to replace Zeus Inc.?

Yes, we manufacture 0.02–0.05 mm wall PTFE tubes that meet medical-grade standards.

11. Do you have a minimum order quantity?

Yes. For spot goods, MOQ is $10. Small order fees may apply.

12. Can you supply one-off or small batch orders?

Yes. We can provide any quantity of standard products, with only setup time fees applied.

13. Do you provide design support for new concepts?

Absolutely. We offer custom injection molding and engineered plastic products solutions. Our dedicated team helps optimize designs, save costs, and drive technological innovation.

14. What other tubing products do you offer?

We also supply fluoroplastic tubes, silicone tubing, and rubber tubes for versatile industrial and medical applications.