Anti-Static PTFE
Anti-static PTFE is available as PTFE anti-static tubing or anti-static PTFE sheets, with other products such as anti-static PTFE tapes, anti-static PTFE coated fabric, etc. They are also called static dissipative PTFE or ESD PTFE.
Unlike other polytetrafluoroethylene products, ESD PTFE is designed to prevent static charge build-up. A reason for reducing polytetrafluoroethylene resistivity using special fillers that make PTFE anti-static.
Hansa Anti-Static PTFE
Normally, virgin PTFE is known for high breakdown voltage between 190 and 225 kV/mm. Similarly, the PTFE dielectric strength is 20 to 70 kV/mm. The two properties make PTFE material one of the best non-conductive materials. Consequently, it results in static charge build-up, which is not suitable for certain applications.
Usually, PTFE manufacturers add carbon or graphite to make anti-static PTFE. Carbon-filled-PTFE is anti-static and partially conductive. That same applies to graphite filled-PTFE, which also forms ESD PTFE, besides, lowering the coefficient of friction. Remember, a low coefficient of friction implies low static charge build-up.
PTFE with anti-static property provides a sufficient medium for any static charge to “leak away”.
Even as you buy the ESD PTFE for any application, it is important to specify the recommended surface resistivity. The resistivity varies depending on the percentage or amount of carbon filler in PTFE.
Additionally, there is always the possibility of particle discharge in carbon-filled-PTFE anti-static material. For this reason, anti-static PTFE may not be suitable for high-purity applications.
Applications of Static Dissipative PTFE
The ESD PTFE sheets are best for applications that are highly sensitive to static-charge build up. The static charge build-up may cause component damage or in worse case possible result in fire outbreak.
Common applications include:
- Circuit boards
- Electronic components
- Electronic printing equipment
- Electronic components
- Integrated circuit systems
- Electronic data storage systems such as HDD
- Electronic packaging
Benefits of Static Dissipative PTFE
- Can be used in flammable environments
- Easily dissipate static charges
- Suitable for use in sensitive applications
- It combines static charge dissipating properties alongside heat resistance, wide working temperature range, non-stick properties, and chemically inert properties.
