PTFE (Teflon) vs PEEK: High-Performance Plastics Comparison

PTFE offers the lowest friction and broadest chemical resistance of any plastic, ideal for seals and chemical environments. PEEK provides far superior mechanical strength and dimensional precision for structural applications.

Side-by-Side Property Comparison

PropertyPTFE (Teflon)PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone)
Tensile Strength27 MPa (3.9 ksi)100 MPa (14.5 ksi)
Yield Strength12 MPa (1.7 ksi)91 MPa (13.2 ksi)
HardnessShore D55Rockwell M99
Density2.15 g/cm³1.31 g/cm³
Machinability Rating65/10060/100
Thermal Conductivity0.25 W/m·K0.25 W/m·K
Melting Point327 °C343 °C
Tolerance±0.05 mm±0.02 mm

Key Differences

PropertyPTFE (Teflon)PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone)Winner
Friction Coefficient0.04 (lowest)0.35PTFE
Tensile Strength27 MPa100 MPaPEEK
Chemical ResistanceUniversalExcellentPTFE
Dimensional StabilityPoor (creeps)GoodPEEK
Temperature Range-200 to 260°C-60 to 260°CPTFE
Cost~$20/kg~$100+/kgPTFE

Which Material Should You Choose?

Choose PTFE (Teflon) when:

  • Seals and gaskets in chemical environments
  • Ultra-low friction bearings
  • Electrical insulation at high temps
  • Chemical tank linings
  • Non-stick surfaces
View Details PTFE (Teflon)

Choose PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) when:

  • Structural and load-bearing parts
  • Parts requiring tight tolerances
  • High-strength aerospace components
  • Medical implants
  • Semiconductor wafer handling
View Details PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone)

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