PTFE (Teflon) CNC Machining Service
Tolerance
Max Temp. Rating
Certified
Our Capability
Rpproto uses advanced 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC equipment paired with PTFE-optimized toolpaths and fixturing methods to deliver precision parts without distortion.
3, 4 & 5-Axis CNC Milling
Create complex pockets, contours, slots, and 3D profiles in PTFE blocks or bar stock. Multi-axis capability reduces setups and improves geometric accuracy for intricate housings, valve seats, and custom plates.
CNC Turning & Turning-Milling
Produce precision cylindrical components — bushings, sleeves, rollers, and threaded fittings — with tight diametrical tolerances and smooth surface finishes. Our turning centers handle both short-run and high-volume orders.
⚙️ Machining Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Standard Tolerance | ± 0.05 mm |
| Tight Tolerance | ± 0.02 mm |
| Min. Wall Thickness | 0.8 mm |
| Max. Part Size (Milling) | 1200 × 500 × 400 mm |
| Max. Diameter (Turning) | ø 350 mm |
| Surface Roughness (as-milled) | Ra 1.6 – 3.2 µm |
| Surface Roughness (polished) | Ra ≤ 0.8 µm |
| PTFE (Virgin) Data Sheet | |
|---|---|
| Density | 2.1 – 2.3 g/cm³ |
| Tensile Strength | 20 – 35 MPa |
| Service Temperature | -200°C to +260°C |
| Friction Coefficient | 0.04 – 0.10 (dry) |
| Dielectric Strength | ~19.7 kV/mm |
| Water Absorption | < 0.01% |
| Flammability (UL 94) | V-0 |
| Chemical Resistance | Excellent (most solvents) |
| Hardness (Shore D) | 50 – 65 |
Available PTFE Grades
We stock multiple grades of PTFE, each with distinct additives that enhance specific properties. Our engineers will help you select the right grade for your application.
Virgin (Unfilled) PTFE
Glass-Filled PTFE
Carbon-Filled PTFE
Bearing Grade PTFE
Available Surface Finishes
We offer several finishing options to enhance the performance, appearance, and traceability of your PTFE machined parts.
As Machined
Parts are delivered directly from the CNC machine with visible tool marks and a surface roughness of Ra 1.6–3.2 µm. This is the default finish and is suitable for most functional prototypes and internal components where appearance is secondary to performance.
Polished
Mechanical polishing brings the surface roughness down to Ra ≤ 0.8 µm, eliminating machining marks and further lowering the friction coefficient. Recommended for sealing faces, medical components, and any application requiring enhanced hygiene or fluid compatibility.
Bead Blasting
Abrasive media blasting creates a uniform matte texture that reduces surface glare and can improve adhesion of secondary coatings on adjacent surfaces. Also useful for deburring complex geometries that are difficult to access manually.
Laser Engraving / Marking
Permanent part numbers, serial numbers, logos, or QR codes can be laser-engraved directly onto PTFE parts for traceability, branding, or assembly identification without affecting the part's chemical or mechanical integrity.
For a full overview of finishing options available across our CNC services, see our Surface Finishes for CNC Machining guide.
Upload your CAD files today and receive an instant quote. Our engineers are ready to support you from design validation through production delivery.
What is PTFE (Teflon)?
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), universally known by DuPont’s trade name Teflon®, is a high-performance synthetic fluoropolymer composed entirely of carbon and fluorine atoms. PTFE delivers a unique combination of properties that no other plastic can replicate, making it the material of choice for the most demanding environments.
CNC machining allows us to produce complex, tight-tolerance PTFE parts directly from CAD data — without the high tooling costs of molding. At Rpproto, our specialized fixturing and tooling strategies ensure burr-free, dimensionally accurate parts every time.
Key Features
PTFE boasts the lowest coefficient of friction of any known solid material, exceptional chemical inertness against virtually all acids, bases, and solvents, and outstanding thermal stability from cryogenic temperatures all the way up to 260°C (500°F). These qualities make it indispensable in chemical processing, medical devices, aerospace, and electronics.
Exceptional Chemical Resistance
Withstands virtually all industrial chemicals — concentrated acids, strong bases, organic solvents, and oxidizers — without degradation or swelling.
Ultra-Low Friction
The lowest friction coefficient (0.04) of any known solid. Ideal for bearings, bushings, seals, and sliding parts that demand minimal wear and smooth motion.
Wide Temperature Range
Maintains stable mechanical and electrical properties from -200°C to +260°C, far exceeding the performance of most other engineering plastics.
Superior Electrical Insulation
Extremely high dielectric strength and negligible moisture absorption make PTFE the preferred choice for electrical connectors, PCB substrates, and wire insulation.
Hydrophobic & Non-Absorbent
Near-zero water absorption keeps dimensional stability intact in wet, humid, or submerged environments. Ideal for fluid-handling and marine applications.
Where PTFE Parts Are Used
From semiconductor fabs to surgical theaters, our CNC-machined PTFE components serve industries that demand chemical inertness, biocompatibility, and extreme reliability.
- Vascular implants & grafts
- Surgical instrument components
- Valve bodies & needle housings
- Lab equipment & fluid manifolds
- Drug delivery system parts
Aerospace & Defense
- Wire & cable insulation
- Anti-wear coatings & components
- Connector insulators
- Fuel system seals
- PCB substrates (microwave)
Chemical Processing
- Pipe linings & expansion joints
- Pump impellers & housings
- Valve seats & diaphragms
- Reactor vessel components
- Tank liners & fittings
Electronics & Semiconductor
- RF/microwave connectors
- High-frequency PCB substrates
- Coaxial cable dielectrics
- IC wafer carriers
- Insulating standoffs & spacers
Food & Beverage
- Non-stick conveyor components
- Seals for food processing lines
- Filling machine parts
- Bearings for wash-down areas
- Hygienic valve components
- Downhole tool insulators
- Valve seats & packing
- Chemical injection seals
- Subsea connector components
- Pipeline inspection parts
Frequently Asked Questions
Teflon® is DuPont's registered trade name for polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Chemically and physically, they are the same material. "PTFE" is the generic term used across the industry, while "Teflon" is a brand name. At Rpproto, we machine both virgin PTFE and branded-grade Teflon materials depending on your specification.
Standard machining tolerances for PTFE are ±0.05 mm for most features. Tighter tolerances of ±0.02 mm are achievable on simple, rigid features with careful fixturing and temperature-controlled environments. Note that PTFE's high thermal expansion means final tolerances should be confirmed at the intended operating temperature.
Yes. Virgin PTFE is FDA-approved for food-contact use and is biocompatible according to ISO 10993. Its chemical inertness means it does not leach any substances and is not rejected by the human body, making it widely used in medical implants, pharmaceutical manufacturing equipment, and food processing machinery.
PTFE is soft, slippery, and has a high coefficient of thermal expansion — which causes deformation under clamping pressure, galling on tooling, and dimensional changes during cutting. At Rpproto, we use PTFE-specific fixturing (low-clamping-force tooling, custom soft jaws), sharp carbide cutting tools, precise feed/speed parameters, and a temperature-controlled production environment to consistently deliver accurate, burr-free parts.
Our minimum order quantity is just 1 piece — we specialize in rapid prototyping as well as full production runs. Whether you need a single proof-of-concept part or thousands of production components, we can accommodate your order with the same quality and attention to detail.
Yes, with the right design and machining strategy. Our 5-axis CNC centers and precision fixturing allow us to produce intricate geometries, thin walls (down to 0.8 mm), and close-tolerance bores. For particularly challenging geometries, our application engineers will review your CAD files and suggest DFM improvements before quoting.
Upload your STEP or IGES CAD file using the button below, specify your required quantity, tolerance, grade, and finish, and you'll receive an instant automated quote. For complex parts or special requirements, our engineering team typically responds within 24 hours with a detailed proposal.