Fluoroethylene propylene (FEP)
Description (definition)
Fluoroethylene propylene (FEP) is a thermoplastic fluoropolymer plastic made from tetrafluoroethylene (TFE) and hexafluoropropylene. It is characterized by its excellent chemical resistance, high heat resistance and exceptional electrical insulation. FEP is transparent, flexible and has a very smooth surface, which is why it is often used in the chemical industry, electronics and medical technology.
Example
A typical example is the use of FEP for cable sheathing in demanding environments. Thanks to its high temperature and chemical resistance, it reliably protects electrical cables, even under extreme conditions.
What properties make FEP special?
FEP offers almost universal chemical resistance and temperature stability from -200 °C to 200 °C. It is non-flammable, hydrophobic and has an extremely low coefficient of friction, making it ideal for applications in aggressive or sensitive environments. It also has a high dielectric strength, making it particularly valuable as an electrical insulating material.
Where is FEP used?
FEP is often used in the chemical industry for lining pipes and containers. In electronics, it is used as insulation for high-performance cables. Other applications can be found in medical technology, for example for catheters or coatings for medical devices, thanks to its biocompatibility and smoothness.
How is FEP processed?
FEP is thermoplastic and can be processed by methods such as extrusion, injection molding and coating. Processing requires special machines and settings, as the melt viscosity of FEP is very high. Nevertheless, it enables the production of precise and high-quality products.