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
| Property | PTFE (Teflon) | PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 27 MPa (3.9 ksi) | 100 MPa (14.5 ksi) |
| Yield Strength | 12 MPa (1.7 ksi) | 91 MPa (13.2 ksi) |
| Hardness | Shore D55 | Rockwell M99 |
| Density | 2.15 g/cm³ | 1.31 g/cm³ |
| Machinability Rating | 65/100 | 60/100 |
| Thermal Conductivity | 0.25 W/m·K | 0.25 W/m·K |
| Melting Point | 327 °C | 343 °C |
| Tolerance | ±0.05 mm | ±0.02 mm |
Key Differences
| Property | PTFE (Teflon) | PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friction Coefficient | 0.04 (lowest) | 0.35 | PTFE |
| Tensile Strength | 27 MPa | 100 MPa | PEEK |
| Chemical Resistance | Universal | Excellent | PTFE |
| Dimensional Stability | Poor (creeps) | Good | PEEK |
| Temperature Range | -200 to 260°C | -60 to 260°C | PTFE |
| Cost | ~$20/kg | ~$100+/kg | PTFE |
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
Choose PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) when:
- Structural and load-bearing parts
- Parts requiring tight tolerances
- High-strength aerospace components
- Medical implants
- Semiconductor wafer handling
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