How are PTFE and ETFE Insulation Materials Different?

PTFE and ETFE insulated wires are known for having excellent dielectric characteristics, high tensile strength, and corrosion resistance. While both polymers can be used for aircraft wiring, it is important to understand the benefits and the disadvantages of both materials.

Material Differences: PTFE is a fluorocarbon material, and comprises a combination of carbon and fluorine atoms. ETFE is slightly different; it consists of a composite of carbon, fluorine, and hydrogen.

Thermal Properties: ETFE has a melting temperature of 267oC, while the melting point for PTFE is 327 o The only similarity is that both materials tend to soften when they are placed in lower temperature environments.

Another difference is the Limiting Oxygen Index – the percentage of oxygen at which the polymer will burn. When placed in a high oxygen environment, PTFE has a LOI of 95%, while ETFE’s LOI is only between 30 and 36%.

Physical Properties: While the polymers do not differ in terms of their material compositions, they are dissimilar in terms of physical properties. The differences have been provided in a table format for better understanding.

In terms of tensile strength, PTFE is found to be 34% lower than ETFE. However, PTFE has a lower friction coefficient.