PCTFE Seals and Gaskets for Cryogenic Service
PCTFE (polychlorotrifluoroethylene) seals hold their shape and sealing load at cryogenic temperatures while limiting gas permeation. Performance Sealing Inc. (PSI) ssupplies PCTFE seals and gaskets in Duron® 146, a 100% PCTFE material with a typical operating temperature range from -400°F to 400°F and the most resistant to gas permeability of any sealing material we offer. The table below lists the Duron 146 specifications.
Contact our technical sales staff today to discuss your application's operating, hardware, and commercial conditions to develop the best performing seal solution.
Duron® PCTFE Polychlorotrifluoroethylene | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material Name | Material Description | Operating Temperature Range (°F) | Wear Resistance (1=Poor & 5=Excellent) | Mating Metal Wear |
| DURON® 146 | 100% Polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE) is a high-performance engineered polymer and is most resistant to gas permeability among our sealing materials. The material is clear. | -400 to 400 | 3 |
Medium |
Why Specify PCTFE Seals
- High compressive strength and dimensional stability, so the seal keeps its sealing load and resists cold flow.
- Low moisture absorption, for consistent performance in wet or humid service.
- Resistance to most harsh chemicals and oxidizing agents.
- Nonflammable.
- Low gas permeability, the lowest among our sealing materials.
PCTFE Seals for Cryogenic Service
PCTFE, also known by the trade name Kel-F®, exhibits high mechanical rigidity and dimensional stability, where many elastomers and softer polymers lose sealing force, resulting in positive sealing performance. Typical uses are cryogenic valve seats, static seals, and gaskets in liquid nitrogen, liquid oxygen, helium, and LNG service. Consult PSI Engineering for further technical support on material selection. See our cryogenic seals for other cryogenic options.
PCTFE vs PTFE
Choose PCTFE when you need stiffness, resistance to cold flow, and low gas permeability. Duron 146 also rates 3 of 5 for wear, against 1 of 5 for virgin PTFE seals. Choose PTFE when you need a higher temperature limit (up to 600°F in our filled grades) or the broadest chemical inertness.
See all Duron® materials to compare Duron 146 with filled PTFE grades.
PCTFE Seals FAQ
What is PCTFE?
PCTFE is polychlorotrifluoroethylene, a thermoplastic chlorofluoropolymer valued for compressive strength, dimensional stability, and very low gas permeability.
What is the difference between PCTFE and PTFE?
PCTFE is stiffer, resists cold flow, and is less gas permeable. PTFE tolerates higher temperatures and has broader chemical inertness.
What temperature range do PCTFE seals handle?
Duron 146 has a typical operating temperature range from -400°F to 400°F.
Is PCTFE good for cryogenic seals?
Yes. It has high mechanical rigidity and dimensional stability at cryogenic temperatures, which is why it is widely used for cryogenic valve seats and seals.
Can PCTFE be used for gaskets?
Yes. PSI quotes PCTFE gaskets as well as seals. Send us your dimensions and operating conditions to request a quote.
Request a quote or call 866.429.2536 to talk with a sealing specialist.
Request A Quote Online Or Call Us At 866.429.2536