Lined Products: PTFE, PFA, and PVDF
What are Lined Products?
Lined products are industrial components that feature a protective internal layer made from advanced fluoropolymers such as PTFE, PFA, or PVDF. These linings act as a barrier between the process media and the base material, typically steel, stainless steel, or another metal, protecting equipment from chemical corrosion, high temperatures, and mechanical wear.
Lined products are essential in environments where aggressive chemicals, acids, solvents, or extreme temperatures would otherwise damage unprotected equipment. Common examples include lined pipes, fittings, valves, tanks, and vessels, all designed to deliver long-term reliability and safety.
By combining the strength of metal with the chemical inertness of fluoropolymers, lined products provide a highly effective solution for industries requiring both structural integrity and corrosion resistance. This approach extends the operational life of process systems, reduces unplanned maintenance, and ensures consistent performance in harsh industrial settings.
Why PTFE and Other Fluoropolymers Are Useful
PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene), PFA (Perfluoroalkoxy), and PVDF (Polyvinylidene Fluoride) are part of a class of high-performance materials known as fluoropolymers, distinguished by their strong carbon-fluorine bonds. This unique molecular structure makes them chemically inert, thermally stable, and resistant to almost all industrial solvents and acids.
These materials are particularly valuable in corrosive, high-purity, or high-temperature applications where traditional materials like steel or rubber coatings fail. Industries such as chemical processing, pharmaceuticals, food production, water treatment, and mining rely on fluoropolymer linings to ensure process safety and purity.
Common Uses of Fluoropolymer Linings
Fluoropolymer-lined equipment is used across many applications, including:
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Chemical and petrochemical processing – for handling aggressive acids and solvents.
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Pharmaceutical and biotech – for maintaining purity and preventing leaching.
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Food and beverage – to meet hygienic standards and resist cleaning agents.
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Water treatment systems – to ensure chemical durability and long-term reliability.
| Component | Typical Lining Material | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Pipes & fittings | PTFE, PFA | Corrosion resistance and chemical compatibility |
| Valves & pumps | PTFE, PVDF | Smooth operation and leak prevention |
| Heat exchangers | PFA | High heat resistance and non-stick performance |
| Tanks & vessels | PTFE, PVDF | Containment of aggressive fluids |
Common Uses of Fluoropolymer Linings
PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene)
PTFE is a non-reactive fluoropolymer with an extremely low coefficient of friction. It’s known for its chemical inertness and temperature resistance up to around 260°C.
Why it’s used:
PTFE is ideal for applications where chemical compatibility, non-stick surfaces, and durability are critical. It’s also electrically insulating and performs well in high-pressure environments.
Key benefits:
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Exceptional chemical resistance
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Wide temperature range (-200°C to +260°C)
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Non-stick and easy to clean
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Long service life
PFA (Perfluoroalkoxy)
PFA shares similar properties with PTFE but offers greater melt-processability and clarity. allowing it to be moulded into complex shapes, making it especially suited for valves, pumps, and components requiring intricate geometry.
Why it’s used:
PFA is often chosen for high-purity or high-performance applications where both chemical and thermal resistance are required, such as semiconductor production or precision chemical processes.
Key benefits:
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Excellent surface smoothness for cleanliness
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Withstands high temperatures (-200°C to +260°C)
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Improved flexibility compared to PTFE
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Ideal for precision-moulded linings and complex shapes
PVDF (Polyvinylidene Fluoride)
PVDF is a strong, partially fluorinated polymer known for its mechanical strength, UV resistance, and weldability.
Why it’s used:
PVDF is ideal for moderate chemical environments or outdoor exposure where weatherability and cost-effectiveness are important. It’s frequently used in storage tanks, piping systems, and pump components.
Key benefits:
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Excellent mechanical strength
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UV and weather resistance
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Easier to process and weld than PTFE or PFA
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Cost-effective for less aggressive applications
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Wide temperature range (-40°C to +150°C)
Specialty Fluoropolymers
ETFE (Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene)
ETFE is a highly melt-processable fluoropolymer offering strong mechanical properties and good chemical resistance. It’s often used where impact strength and moderate chemical protection are both required.
Key traits: High toughness, good abrasion resistance, temperature range of -80°C to +150°C.
ECTFE (Ethylene Chlorotrifluoroethylene)
ECTFE provides excellent chemical resistance and low permeability, making it suitable for applications where vapour or gas permeation is a concern.
Key traits: Outstanding barrier performance, good weldability, temperature range of -80°C to +150°C.
Why Choose Lined Products
Using lined equipment protects valuable systems and ensures operational safety in aggressive or sensitive environments.
Key reasons to use PTFE, PFA, PVDF, or other fluoropolymer linings include:
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Corrosion resistance: Protects metals from acids, bases, and solvents.
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Extended equipment life: Minimises wear and reduces replacement frequency.
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Improved process safety: Reduces the risk of leaks and chemical exposure.
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Product purity: Prevents contamination in sensitive manufacturing processes.
FAQ: Fluoropolymer Linings
Q: What’s the difference between PTFE, PFA, and PVDF?
A: PTFE offers the highest chemical resistance, PFA allows for complex moulding and high purity, and PVDF provides strong mechanical performance and UV resistance at a lower cost.
Q: How long do lined products last?
A: When used correctly, lined components can last several years or even decades, depending on the chemical environment and maintenance practices.
Q: Can lined products handle high temperatures?
A: Yes. PTFE and PFA linings can withstand continuous service temperatures up to 260°C, while PVDF is suitable for applications up to around 150°C.
Q: What types of equipment can be lined?
A: A wide range of process equipment can be lined, including pipes, fittings, valves, tanks, pumps, agitators, and heat exchangers. The choice of lining material depends on the process media, pressure, and temperature requirements.
Q: How do I choose the right fluoropolymer lining for my application?
A: The selection depends on the chemical compatibility, operating temperature, mechanical stress, and purity requirements of your process.
Glossary of Key Terms
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Fluoropolymer | A type of plastic with carbon-fluorine bonds, offering outstanding chemical and thermal stability. |
| Lining | A protective layer applied inside equipment to resist corrosion or wear. |
| Non-stick surface | A smooth surface that prevents material adhesion, reducing buildup and contamination. |
| Chemical compatibility | The ability of a material to resist degradation when exposed to certain chemicals. |
| Permeation | The process of a gas or liquid passing through a solid material over time. Lower permeation rates mean better containment. |
Why Choose InKorr?
InKorr is your trusted partner for corrosion-resistant and high-performance lined products in Australia. With extensive experience in fluoropolymer technology, we engineer practical, durable, and cost-effective lining solutions for demanding industrial environments.
What sets InKorr apart is our commitment to quality, reliability, and responsive customer support. From design and fabrication to installation, maintenance, and performance optimisation, our experts work closely with you to ensure long-term system integrity and operational safety.