PTFE Coatings
PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) coatings provide a non-stick, low-friction surface that resists heat, chemicals, and corrosion. These coatings are ideal for applications where durability and easy cleanability are essential, such as in industrial, food processing, and chemical equipment.
What Is Teflon® / PTFE?
- Teflon® is a trademarked name by DuPont (now Chemours) for polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).
- PTFE belongs to a broader family of fluoropolymers, known for their exceptional chemical inertness, low surface energy (nonstick behavior), and high-temperature tolerance.
- Because “Teflon” is widely recognized, many people colloquially use it to refer to any nonstick or fluoropolymer coating, but technically, PTFE is just one member of that class.
- In industrial coatings, PTFE is often used as a dry-film lubricant to reduce friction, improve wear resistance, and facilitate release. Its continuous-use temperature can reach up to around 500 °F under favorable conditions.
- However, PTFE is not always ideal in every scenario, depending on your application you might prefer other fluoropolymers (e.g. PFA, FEP, ETFE) or composite coatings like Xylan® that incorporate PTFE within a binder system.
Fluoropolymer Coatings
AIC applies multiple fluoropolymer formulations to satisfy performance and cost trade-offs. Below is a comparative summary:
Fluoropolymers We Apply & Their Properties
| Fluoropolymer | Key Properties | Typical Max Use Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| PTFE | Exceptional nonstick / release, excellent dry-lubricant behavior, strong chemical resistance | ~ 500 °F |
| PFA | Transparent, inert, up/down release, good dielectric strength, more mechanically tough than PTFE or FEP. *BEST chemical resistance out of all of the Teflons® | ~ 260 °C / 500 °F |
| FEP | Nonporous, good dielectric, flexible, suitable for molding systems | ~ 400 °F |
| ETFE | Very chemically robust, hydrophobic, good dielectric performance | ~ 149 °C / 300 °F |
These are typical continuous-use ranges; actual performance depends on the substrate, environment, layering, and mechanical stresses. By combining these fluoropolymers with customized binders, multilayer systems, or composite coatings like Xylan®, we tailor the coating to your application’s needs.
Xylan® Coatings
Xylan coatings are high-performance, fluoropolymer-based coatings designed to reduce friction, resist wear, and protect against corrosion. They are often used on fasteners and components exposed to harsh environments, offering excellent chemical and temperature resistance with a dry-film lubricant finish.
Why Use Xylan®?
- Low friction & nonstick / release behavior
- Wear resistance, even under high pressure
- Corrosion & chemical resistance
- Machinability: Multi-coat application allows for post-mill finishing
- Broad temperature range: From cryogenic to high temperatures (e.g., –420 °F to 550 °F)
- Good adhesion & flexibility across various substrates
- Color options to help with identification, aesthetics, or process traceability
Xylan® Products & Variants
We support the full range of Xylan® coatings, such as:
- Xylan® XLR
- Xylan® 1010, 1014, 1070
- Xylan® 1052
- Xylan® 1424, 1425, 1427
- And other customized Xylan® formulations
Each variant tweaks the proportions of PTFE and binder/resin to optimize for adhesion, flexibility, mechanical strength, or chemical/temperature resistance.
Compatible Substrates
- Xylan® can be reliably applied to a wide array of base materials:
- Metals: aluminum, steel (and stainless), chrome- or nickel-alloys, copper, titanium
- Plastics & polymers: epoxy, Nylon, PEEK, polyester, etc.
- Elastomers: natural rubber, silicone
- Glass, ceramics, industrial textiles
Glyde Coat® Coatings
Glyde Coat® is a powder/ PTFE combination coating developed by Advanced Industrial Coatings. Glyde Coat® is an economical, high-performance powder coating available exclusively to AIC customers. With a typical thickness of 2-4mm, but in some circumstances it may be possible to achieve a thickness under 2mm.
Why Use Glyde Coat®?
Glyde Coat® is a unique powder coating that combines the convenience of a standard powder application with the performance benefits of a dry film lubricant. Designed for applications where a smooth, low-friction surface is essential, Glyde Coat® delivers excellent durability, weather resistance, and ease of maintenance.
If you need a surface that allows components to glide, move, or clean easily, Glyde Coat® provides the ideal solution.
Key Advantages of Glyde Coat®
- Low Coefficient of Friction: Creates a slick, “slippery” surface that reduces drag and allows parts to move freely.
- Excellent Adhesion: Bonds securely to metal substrates for long-lasting performance.
- Durable and Weather-Resistant: Performs well in outdoor or demanding environments.
- Versatile Application: Suitable for a wide variety of metals and available in multiple colors.
- Affordable Performance: Offers cost-effective protection and functionality.
Proven Across Industries
Originally developed for wheelchair manufacturers, Glyde Coat® has since been adopted across diverse industries, including:
- Safety Components: Earthquake protection devices
Outdoor Equipment: Lawn mower bases and mechanical housings - Telecommunications: Telewave antennas, where Glyde Coat® aids in de-icing performance