What Is The Difference Between Graphite and PTFE Packing

The packing used for fluid sealing can be of several types. Among the other regularly used sealing materials, graphite and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) are in demand the most. The materials are used in a braided form. 



The biggest difference between Graphite and PTFE packing fluid is that PTFE is a synthetic material, while graphite is the natural material of carbon. Multiple heat treatments are applied to the PTFE yarn to achieve the desired shape and structure of the filler.

Difference Between Graphite and PTFE Packing

1. Composition

The Major difference between Graphite and PTFE packing is that Graphite is a pure carbon inorganic form. Graphite filler is a pure carbon braided sealant that is black in colour. To improve functionality, they can be combined with other elements or polytetrafluoroethylene.

PTFE is an abbreviation for polytetrafluoroethylene. It is a white synthetic polymer that has been polymerized with tetrafluoroethylene. Teflon yarn can be lubricated to improve the performance of flexible packing.

2. Application

Graphite packing is appropriate for agitators, valves, and shafts that handle chemicals, acids, and other acids. They are also used in applications with high pressures, high shaft speeds, and high temperatures.

In steam turbines and high-temperature valves, expanded graphite packing is used. Customers can also use Teflon boards to handle fuel gas, mineral oil and synthetic oil, steam water, sewage, and other substances.

Except for molten alkali metals, Teflon fillers are used in industrial plants to treat corrosive and oxidant substances. PTFE packing is an excellent choice for most corrosive media. They are used in a variety of industries including pharmaceutical, food, aerospace, and electrical.

Teflon enveloped gaskets are used in industrial plants for safer handling and management of highly active substances.

3. Attributes

The difference between Graphite and PTFE packing can be summarized as to form graphite filler, a high-quality product of graphite yarns is woven together. For a thermal conductor, graphite fillers are generally used. Although, the coefficient of friction is very less, the corrosion resistance for chemicals, acids, gases, and so on is very strong. 

PTFE is a variant of Teflon which is used precisely to make non-stick cookware. Teflon is considered a great material for insulation for electrical purposes. It also prevents shaft wear. The multi-yarn filler is made of polytetrafluoroethylene, a material with high strength and lubricity.

4. Benefit

Graphite sealing products are an excellent replacement for asbestos fillers. Graphite packing has several advantages, including ease of installation and quick maintenance.

Because of its low coefficient of friction, PTFE filler has a long shelf life. Multi-yarn PTFE filler can be designed to meet FDA requirements for food and medicine.

Graphite filler can be treated with polytetrafluoroethylene to improve its properties, such as preventing colour pollution and increasing stability. Graphite and PTFE fillers are cost-effective because they are long-lasting and require little maintenance.

There are numerous fluid sealants available on the market. The right packing is determined by the pH value, temperature, and required shaft speed. It is preferable to investigate the thermal and chemical properties of braided yarns that influence filler properties.


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