PTFE for Lubricating Greases
It is well-known that polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) has a simple chemical formula, CF3-CF2-[CF2-CF2]n-CF2-CF3, a very low coefficient of friction, and excellent chemical and thermal stability. Less well-known are the many ways that PTFE can be manufactured, modified, and handled to achieve properties that are desired in grease. This paper will present results from laboratory studies on performance properties of greases formulated with PTFE, such as thickening efficiency, friction, and wear. For example, simple lithium grease formulated with PTFE powder supported loads up to 120 kg during four-ball friction and wear tests.