Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a synthetic fluoropolymer of tetrafluoroethylene and a commonly used lubricant, with applications across a whole range of industries, from automotive to manufacturing and food. But how safe is PTFE lubricant and why is it used?

Could long term PTFE lubricant exposure be a health risk?

PTFE lubricants are not considered harmful to human health when used in accordance with any safety directions on the product.
However, there are some health concerns with PTFE lubricant exposure when used incorrectly or during the manufacturing process:
  • Toxic fumes can be released when PTFE is heated above 570°F, or 300°C
  • Long term chemical exposure involved in PTFE manufacturing may have links to cancer, thyroid issues and reproductive problems because of the use of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)
These potential risks associated with PTFE lubricant can be minimised with proper ventilation, temperature control and safe handling during manufacture.
 

Does PTFE react with anything?

PTFE lubricants have excellent chemical resistance against most acids, alcohols, detergents and solvents and is a chemically inert compound.
However, PTFE is incompatible with certain alkali metals and fluorinating agents, including xenon difluoride and cobalt (III) fluoride.
 

What are the properties of PTFE lubricants?

There are lots of reasons to use PTFE lubricants! Here are some of the advantages of PTFE lubricants manufactured by Eco-Point:

Low friction

PTFE lubricants are used for bearings, gears, seals, gaskets and in other industrial applications where a smooth, sliding action is desired. This is because of the extremely low coefficient of friction in PTFE, which is 0.05 (the third lowest of any known solid material!).

Corrosion protection

We recommended Lubron Ecotef to a client of ours who operates in harsh marine environments. They required a lubricant that would provide effective lubrication on start-up, regardless of the environment, and our PTFE product also offered corrosion prevention for nuts, bolts, screws and internal wire ropes.
Read the full case study here.

Hydrophobic

PTFE lubricants are hydrophobic because of their low surface energy. This means PTFE coatings repel water and inhibit corrosion. They can, therefore, come into contact with water and salt.

Chemically inert

PTFE is chemically inert, making it an ideal lubricant for chemically aggressive environments.

High thermal stability

PTFE is one of the most thermally stable materials and, because of this, is often used for high temperature applications, one of the most common uses being within the food industry with non-stick pans.

Best PTFE lubricants for 2023/2024

Here is the Eco-Point rundown of the best PTFE lubricants to help make 2023 and 2024 run smoothly!

Food safe PTFE lubricant

Duron Foodmaster Clear EP43 is a clear, synthetic grease containing PTFE and is 100% food safe! We manufacture Duron Foodmaster using pure polyalkyl olefin base oils, PTFE and extreme pressure additives. This product is clear, does not carbonise, and can be used on plastic bearings, runners and sliders in food preparation settings.
Read full technical data for Duron Foodmaster Clear EP43 here.

Industrial PTFE lubricant

Zip Lube is our universal PTFE lubricant which contains penetrants, corrosion inhibitors and water displacing agents. This product reduces start up friction very effectively and reduces machinery stiction. It’s ideal for bearings, chains, runners, wire ropes, sliding doors, machinery, trucks, tractors, and belt and chain conveyors.
In high concentrations, Zip Lube vapours can cause headache, fatigue, dizziness and nausea.
Read full technical data for Zip Lube here and safety information here.

Looking to learn more about solid and PTFE lubricants?

Visit our FAQ section on PTFE lubricants where you’ll find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about our range.
If you have any other queries or need some advice on choosing the best industrial lubricant, please give our team a call on +44(0)14 9479 2803 or email [email protected]. Alternatively, fill out a contact form with details of your enquiry and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!