Last Updated on February 7, 2023 by Leizi
Teflon, called Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), is a common material in CNC machining. It is a synthetic fluoropolymer thermoplastic. Applications in everyday life include products such as non-stick cookware and electrical insulation, not only as a substrate but also as a coating. This article will introduce the performance, processing and application of Teflon.
Teflon
General plastics can be divided into thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics. Teflon is an opaque white or black thermoplastic that melts at high temperatures, while thermosetting can only remain solidified after forming.
Compared with other materials, Teflon is a relatively expensive plastic because of its various excellent material properties:
• Chemical resistance
• Anti-UV
• Low friction, non-stick
• Low dielectric constant/dissipation factor
• High impact
•The relatively high strength-to-weight ratio
• Electrical insulation
• High stability
• Food safety
Teflon in Machining
CNC machining of Teflon is a material reduction process, through which the computer precisely controls the tool to remove excess Teflon material, thereby forming parts of a predetermined shape.
1. CNC milling. During CNC milling, the sample remains different while the tool moves and rotates accurately in multiple axes.
2. CNC turning. This type of machining differs from CNC milling in that the workpiece is rotated while the tool remains stationary, thereby machining a cylindrical prototype.
3. Multi-axis machining. Generally speaking, we use 3&4&5 axis CNC machines to make custom Teflon parts with complex designs. Machines with different axes can achieve different tolerances. 5-axis CNC machining is the most commonly used processing method because of the high precision it can achieve.
Tips in the process of CNC machining Teflon
To reduce errors in Teflon projects, it is necessary to understand the characteristics of the material and the detailed steps in the processing process.
1. Tolerance
Tight tolerances are difficult to achieve because of the high coefficient of expansion and stress creep during Teflon processing. We generally improve by adding coolant.
2. Deformation
Because of the soft texture of Teflon, the cutter is prone to chatter due to insufficient rigidity during processing. And it deforms extremely easily under extreme pressure, and there is a risk of burrs. To enhance its rigidity, we will introduce other materials to it.
3. Custom knives
As for the special properties of Teflon, we generally need custom carbide cutters to improve chip clearance to prevent clogging.
4. Surface treatment
After CNC machining, we shot peen the part to remove irregularities and improve its surface smoothness.
5. Shape
Some parts with special shapes are not suitable for processing with Teflon, such as bowl and disk parts.
Application of Teflon:
As a CNC machining material, Teflon is also widely used in various industries because of its excellent thermal stability and low coefficient of friction.
In addition to CNC processing, Teflon often uses other processing methods to make wire insulation and non-stick coatings on the surface of non-stick pans.
The following are popular applications of CNC machined Teflon parts in various industries of automotive, medical, aerospace, and laboratory equipment:
1. Pipeline
2. Medical parts
3. Valve
4. Needle box
5. Bearing
6. Gear
7. Bushing
Ruitai Provides Custom CNC Machining Teflon Service:
Machining Teflon by multi-axis CNC is one of Ruitai’s custom machining services. From purchasing raw materials, processing, to custom packaging, we provide you with one-stop machining services. You can click here to contact us if you need any help.