PTFE tape is often referred to as plumbers tape or Teflon tape due to its ability to seal a wide variety of threaded fittings like valves, nipples, and gauges – and its strength to keep them free from leaks. 

The tape can be incredibly versatile. It’s no surprise that it can be found in tool boxes and tool cribs throughout the globe – meeting the need of many different applications. But what exactly is PTFE tape?

1. PTFE tape

PTFE, which stands for polytetrafluoroethylene, is commonly used in applications that involve sealing pipes and tubes used for things like water, gas, or air. In certain situations, it can even act as a lubricant for pipes by preventing any water or air leakages. PTFE-based thread seal tape even holds up very well on high-pressured lines, keeping them perfectly sealed. 

It was first trademarked as “Teflon,” by DuPont in 1945 after being discovered by accident by a chemist in 1938. A batch of gas spontaneously polymerized resulting in a wax-like solid. Through a little testing, they discovered that it didn’t dissolve in various solvents, it could withstand high and low temperatures, and it wasn’t touched by corrosive acids. It quickly became known as the slickest substance. 

Over the years, PTFE has been used to create nonstick cookware, as well as in space and medical applications. It has also become the best-known gap filler or sealant when applied directly to pipes, allowing the flow of gas or liquid.  

2. Properties of PTFE tape

FKM rubber sheets are used across many critical industries:

There are many different applications and places in which you will find that PTFE plays a vital role. These also fall across many different industries, too. You may even be surprised just where you will find it.

PTFE tape may be used in homes – in kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor water taps, and so forth. They can also be found in the appliance industry, fire protection, food and beverage, fluid control, medical equipment, HVAC systems, water irrigation, and more.

They can be used for things such as:

Water pressure systems

Hydraulic systems

Air flow systems

Fire protection systems

Fluid power systems

You will find PTFE throughout your house and the surrounding areas wherever a leak may be possible.

3. Types of PTFE tape

There are six different types of PTFE tape that are color-coded to reflect their purpose and intended use. You always want to make sure you are using the right color tape for the right application.

Let’s take a closer look at the types of tapes available, as well as their function.

White tape. This is the tape that is most commonly used – your basic thread seal tape. In fact, it is the original color for PTFE. It works well for basic plumbing jobs, such as residential watering needs in the faucets, outside water hoses, or even gas connections for cooking.

Yellow tape. This high-density tape can be safely used for different gases, such as propane, natural gas, or butane fittings. It is designed to be able to be screwed and unscrewed multiple times without risking its seal.

Pink tape. This tape is ideal for high-pressure water pipe situations or potable water lines.

Green tape. Green tape is used for oxygen. This may be used in small personal medical cylinders or even for oxygen welding lines.

If you would like to find out more about PTFE tape or to purchase the products, please contact us at gasket@weitengroup.com, wwww.weitengroup.com.