How Do I Heat-Treat PTFE Lubricants?

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a generic name for Teflon®. In general, PTFE dry film lubricants are used to provide very smooth, jerk-free movement of mechanical parts. These films tend to be soft, however, and rapidly can be abraded away. In most applications this is not a problem. But some products need the lubricity provided by the PTFE and a long product life. In this situation, the PTFE requires a heat treatment to ensure the durability of the lubricant coating.

The process is called "heat-fusion."  This treatment enhances the durability of the lubricant coating by melting the PTFE onto the substrate. The process is simple, and involves heating the surface to 305-316° C (581-600° F). Measure the surface temperature directly with a thermocouple. The coating appearance may change from an opaque white to a darker, translucent surface and finally appearing clear and wet. Maintain the temperature of the coated surface (not the temperature of the ambient air) at 305-316° C (581-600° F) for 5 to 10 minutes. If a white residue is left on the metal surface, buff with a soft cloth after cooling. No other treatment is required.

• There is some background information about PTFE itself on this web site.

• A discussion of the methods for applying the lubricants is included here.

• Here is a general list of Micro Care dry film lubricants.

• One of the lubricants, the VDX Spray, is the only one available in an aerosol package.

• Here is a note about Micro Care package sizes and packaging options.