CB6959 Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene Copolymer Resin (FEP/F46 Resin)

Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene Copolymer Resin (FEP/F46 Resin) Description

FEP/F46 Resin is a semi‐crystalline thermoplastic fluoropolymer. It is synthesised by free‐radical emulsion copolymerisation of tetrafluoroethylene (TFE) and hexafluoropropylene (HFP) at an approximately 85:15 weight ratio. It meets PTFE chemical inertness and provides thermoplastic processability because its melt phase occurs at 304°C (580°F).

The granular material maintains its thermal stability. It is used from cryogenic temperatures (–200°C) to continuous operation at 205°C. It absorbs less than 0.01% moisture. It meets UV and weathering criteria for more than 20 years outdoors.

Electrically, the resin has a volume resistivity of more than 10^18 Ω·cm. It has a dielectric strength of at least 80 kV/mm. Its dielectric constant is fixed at 2.1 and its dissipation factor is below 0.0007 from DC to 1 GHz. Consequently, it is suitable for high-frequency insulation.

Its low surface energy (18 dynes/cm) results in non‐stick behaviour and anti‐fouling properties. When processed properly, the resin permits over 92% transmission of visible light. This supports its use in transparent applications.

Chemically, FEP resin resists mineral acids (including aqua regia and 98% sulphuric acid), concentrated bases (e.g. 50% NaOH), organic solvents (such as acetone and toluene) and oxidisers such as hydrogen peroxide without degradation.

Mechanically, the resin shows a tensile strength between 20 and 30 MPa and an elongation of between 250% and 330%. It is susceptible to creep under sustained loads. Its density is 2.15 g/cm³ and its crystallinity is between 40% and 50%, which results in an oxygen permeability of 1 100 cm³·mil/m²·day·atm.

FEP resin complies with FDA, ISO 10993 and UL 94 V-0 standards. It is used as feedstock for extruding wire insulation, manufacturing medical components, semiconductor equipment and chemical liners.

The melt flow index is adjustable from 0.8 to 25 g/10 min, which facilitates extrusion and moulding. Processing above 380°C causes degradation.

Sustainability measures include pyrolytic recycling to recover HF and CO₂. Mechanical recycling remains limited by purity requirements.

Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene Copolymer Resin (FEP/F46 Resin) Applications

FEP resin is used for wire and cable insulation in aerospace, telecommunications (including 5G/6G coaxial cables) and electric vehicles. It has a dielectric constant of 2.1 and it operates from –200°C to +205°C. Its flame resistance is indicated by an LOI of 95%.

Its chemical inertness permits its use in industrial equipment. This includes valves, pumps and chemical storage tanks that may handle concentrated acids (e.g. 98% H₂SO₄), bases (50% NaOH) and solvents. Consequently, corrosion is reduced and component lifespan is extended.

The resin is used for manufacturing laboratory ware such as reagent bottles, sample containers and semiconductor processing tubing. Its near‐zero leachables, over 92% optical transmission and compatibility with cryogenic conditions (for example, liquid nitrogen storage) are quantifiable benefits.

In renewable energy, the resin is used to produce solar panel encapsulation films that are rated for more than 20 years’ weatherability. These films protect photovoltaic cells and maximise light transmission. It also forms parts for hydrogen system seals and gaskets as a result of its gas impermeability.

Medical and pharmaceutical applications utilise the resin for injection‐moulded drug delivery components, vial seals and surgical instrument coatings. These meet FDA and ISO 10993 standards.

Emerging applications include EV battery thermal barriers to reduce fire risks, 3D printing filaments for chemically resistant prototypes and transparent conductive substrates (silver‐coated films) for flexible electronics.

The resin offers melt processability, non‐stick behaviour (18 dynes/cm surface energy) and electrical and thermal stability. It is used in various industrial sectors.

Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene Copolymer Resin (FEP/F46 Resin) Packaging

Products are packaged in customised cartons of various sizes based on material dimensions. Small items are packed in PP boxes, while larger items are placed in custom wooden crates. Appropriate cushioning materials are used to ensure protection during transport.

Packaging: Carton, Wooden Box, or Customized.

Kindly review the packaging details provided for your reference.

Manufacturing Process

1.       Testing Method

(1)    Chemical Composition Analysis is verified by techniques such as GDMS or XRF to confirm purity requirements.

(2)    Mechanical Properties Testing includes tensile strength, yield strength and elongation tests to assess material performance.

(3)    Dimensional Inspection measures thickness, width and length to ensure adherence to specified tolerances.

(4)    Surface Quality Inspection checks for defects such as scratches, cracks or inclusions using visual and ultrasonic examination.

(5)    Hardness Testing determines the material hardness to confirm uniformity and mechanical performance.

Please refer to the SAM testing procedures for detailed information.

Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene Copolymer Resin (FEP/F46 Resin) FAQs

Q1. Will this work in my existing injection moulding setup?

Yes, provided that your equipment can reach a melt temperature of 340°C and maintain control within ±5°C. Most standard thermoplastic machines are suitable. This can save over £500 000 compared with specialised PTFE lines.

Q2. How to prevent seal failures in chemical pumps?

Apply a TiO₂ coating when the seals are exposed to sunlight. This measure reduces UV degradation by 80%.

Maintain compression below 0.5% strain at temperatures above 150°C.

Avoid steam cleaning at temperatures above 135°C.

Q3. Why did my competitor's FEP pipe crack in winter?

The cracking is likely caused by thermal shock at temperatures below –40°C. The standard grade is rated to –80°C, while the impact‐modified grade withstands temperature cycling from –100°C to 200°C.

Related Information

1.       Common Preparation Methods

FEP manufacturing begins with emulsion polymerisation. Tetrafluoroethylene (TFE) and hexafluoropropylene (HFP) monomers react in a pressurised reactor at between 80°C and 100°C. The typical monomer ratio is 85:15 by weight. Deviation beyond ±2% results in shifts in crystallinity.

After polymerisation, the dispersion is coagulated. Intensive washing then removes residual perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) to levels below 25 ppb.

The wet powder is dried in convection ovens at 150°C for 8 to 12 hours. This achieves a moisture content below 0.03%.

For pellet production, the dried powder is processed in twin‐screw extruders. The feed zone is maintained at 280°C, the compression zone at 340°C and the metering zone at 350°C. Melt filtration using 40 μm sintered metal screens removes contaminants before underwater pelletising. Process control maintains the melt flow rate at 7 ± 0.5 g/10 min (measured at 372°C with a 5 kg load). Grades with higher MFR adjust screw speed while keeping the melt temperature below 380°C.

Medical‐grade production uses ISO Class 7 cleanroom extrusion and triple‐packaging. Products are packed in nitrogen‐flushed foil bags inside sealed drums. Post‐production, all lots undergo DSC verification with a melting peak between 260°C and 265°C and dielectric strength testing at greater than 25 kV/mm for a 0.25 mm thickness.