PTFE O-rings

O-RINGS

Polytetrafluoroethylene, commonly abbreviated as PTFE, is a chemically inert, low-friction polymer widely used in sealing applications for its exceptional resistance to heat, pressure, and aggressive media. Teflon® is the well-known brand name of PTFE and is manufactured by Chemours. PTFE seals maintain their integrity in environments where many other materials degrade. They resist virtually all chemicals—including acids, bases, and solvents—and operate effectively over a wide temperature range. Additionally, PTFE’s excellent non-stick and low-friction characteristics reduce wear and improve seal longevity in dynamic applications.

Widely used in industries such as chemical processing, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and electronics manufacturing, PTFE seals are often the material of choice when purity, durability, and performance are critical.

Features and Specifications

Temperature Range

 Standard PTFE seals typically withstand temperatures ranging from -328°F (-200°C) up to 500°F (260°C), with some specialized grades tolerating even higher extremes. This broad thermal window allows PTFE seals to perform reliably in cryogenic environments as well as high-heat processes.  

Durometer

PTFE is a rigid material, so its  hardness is measured using the Shore D scale, which is designed for harder plastics—unlike elastomers measured with the softer Shore A scale. PTFE typically has a Shore D hardness of 55 to 65, providing excellent wear resistance and stability. Filled PTFE compounds with additives like glass or carbon can reach 70 to 75 Shore D, enhancing strength and reducing brittleness while maintaining chemical and thermal resistance.

Color

Teflon seals are typically white or off-white, although colored and filled variants are available to meet specific application or industry requirements.

Benefits of PTFE O-Rings

PTFE seals offer outstanding resistance to extreme temperatures, aggressive chemicals, and corrosive environments, making them a trusted choice for demanding sealing applications across industries such as aerospace, chemical processing, food and beverage, and pharmaceuticals. Known for their exceptional durability and low friction properties, PTFE seals maintain reliable performance even in harsh operating conditions. They combine excellent thermal stability, broad chemical compatibility, and wear resistance, making them ideal for applications where long-lasting, leak-free performance is critical. PTFE seals provide several beneficial mechanical properties, including:

  • Chemical resistance
  • Low friction
  • Nonstick
  • Non-toxic / sterile
  • Resistance to aging and sunlight
  • Resistance to water and steam
  • Temperature resistance
  • Weather and ozone resistance

Additionally, PTFE O-rings are resistant to:

  • Abrasions (good abrasion resistance, though not as high as some filled PTFE blends)
  • Acids
  • Brake fluids
  • Cleaning agents
  • Corrosion
  • Diluted alkalis
  • Electrical (excellent electrical insulation properties)
  • Flames (inherently non-flammable and self-extinguishing)
  • Grease
  • Ketones
  • Mold (non-organic, so mold cannot grow)
  • Oxidation
  • Silicone oils
  • Steam
  • Sunlight (UV resistant)
  • Water
  • Weather

Common Uses & Applications of PTFE O-rings

PTFE seals are well-suited for a wide range of static and dynamic applications, offering exceptional performance even in the most challenging operating environments. They can be produced in specialized shapes and sizes to meet unique design requirements, while delivering long-lasting, leak-free sealing. PTFE seals are widely used in aerospace, chemical processing, food and beverage, and pharmaceutical applications—particularly in systems that demand resistance to extreme temperatures, aggressive chemicals, and corrosive media. Common uses include pumps, valves, mixers, and process equipment. Industries that rely on PTFE seals include:

The wyatt seal advantage

We're here to help in selecting the right sealing solution. Tell us your specifications, and we'll partner with you to find the ideal O-rings for your next project. Contact Wyatt Seal to find out more about our O-ring selection and custom solutions.