What are PTFE Tape?

PTFE tape, often known as PTFE thread seal tape or PTFE pipe tape, is an essential tool in the world of precision engineering, hydraulics and plumbing. This versatile, high-performance tape is designed to create a secure seal on pipe thread components, preventing leaks in various systems.

Made from Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), this remarkable tape exhibits resistance to chemicals, temperature fluctuations and pressure. Its physical attributes include a slick, non-adhesive surface that effortlessly wraps around threads, ensuring a tight and reliable seal. PTFE Tape interacts seamlessly with other components, providing an impermeable barrier that is crucial for maintaining the integrity of liquid and gas systems.

How PTFE Thread Seal Tape Works.

PTFE thread seal tape works by filling the gaps between threaded connections, providing a seal that prevents leakage of fluids or gases. This is indispensable in scenarios ranging from household plumbing to complex industrial applications.

Some examples of PTFE thread seal tape uses are, when installing a new water heater, applying PTFE plumbers tape on the pipe threads ensures no water escapes from the joints, safeguarding against potential water damage.

In the gas industry, specific gas PTFE tape is critical for sealing gas pipe connections, ensuring safety and efficiency.

PTFE thread seal tape is also used in the automotive and aerospace sectors to ensure the integrity of fluid transfer systems. By reducing friction and preventing leaks, PTFE tape enhances the longevity and reliability of threaded connections.

What Material PTFE Tape Is Made From.

PTFE plumbing tape is made from Polytetrafluoroethylene (a mouthful, we know), a synthetic fluoropolymer renowned for its exceptional properties.

PTFE's chemical resistance makes it ideal for applications where exposure to corrosive substances is a concern. Its thermal stability allows PTFE tape to function effectively across a broad temperature range, making it suitable for both high-heat and sub-zero environments.

Additionally, PTFE's low coefficient of friction provides a smooth surface that aids in the easy installation of the tape, while also preventing thread galling or seizing. These attributes ensure that PTFE tape maintains its sealing properties under various operational conditions, making it a trusted choice for engineers and plumbers alike.

What Size and Type PTFE Tape Is Available.

At Accu, we offer PTFE tape in various sizes and types to cater to different applications. Our standard PTFE tape comes in widths of 12mm, with roll lengths available in either 5 meters or 12 meters, providing flexibility depending on the scope of your project.

We provide specialised variants of PTFE tape designed for specific uses: PTFE tape for gas pipes, which is typically yellow and conforms to strict safety standards, and PTFE tape for water/plumbing applications, which is usually white.

These tapes are tailored to ensure optimal performance and safety in their respective environments. Furthermore, all our PTFE tapes are manufactured to the highest standards, guaranteeing consistency and reliability in every roll. Whether you're applying PTFE tape for water, gas or any other threaded connection, Accu has the right roll to meet your needs.

FAQs.

Where should you not use PTFE tape?.

PTFE tape for plumbing should not be used on compression fittings or flare fittings, as these types of connections rely on metal-to-metal contact for sealing rather than threaded sealing. Additionally, avoid using PTFE tape on plastic threads, as overtightening can cause the threads to crack or deform.

Will PTFE tape seal a leak?.

PTFE thread seal tape can help prevent leaks by providing a secure seal on threaded pipe joints, but it is not designed to seal existing leaks in damaged or cracked pipes. For existing leaks, take a look at our self-amalgamating tape which can get you out of a leak emergency fast. It is then crucial to repair or replace the damaged section of the pipe and then use PTFE pipe tape to secure the new connections and prevent future leaks.

How to apply PTFE tape correctly?.

When considering the application, it's crucial to understand the PTFE tape direction and the amount. The thread seal tape should always be applied in the same direction as the thread, so for right-handed, threads, it would typically be applied clockwise and for left-handed threads, counter-clockwise.

As for the amount, you should aim to wrap the tape around three times, potentially less for small fasteners and once or twice more for very large ones.

What happens if you use too much PTFE tape?.

Knowing how much PTFE tape to use is crucial. Using too much can create too much bulk on the threads, making it difficult to screw the fittings together properly and potentially causing the threads to strip or cross-thread.

Over-application can also lead to pieces of tape breaking off inside the pipe, which can clog the system or interfere with the fluid flow. It is essential to apply just enough tape to cover the threads adequately without overlapping excessively.

Bespoke PTFE Tape Manufacture.

High precision, bespoke manufacture of PTFE Tape to customer specification. State of the art facilities specialising in both small batch prototyping and large scale manufacture.

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