Teflon Tape Key Terms

Study Teflon tape terminology and features to make the right choice for your business

By Deneatra Harmon

Teflon tape, sometimes nicknamed plumber’s tape, adheres well to items such as pipes, fittings and plumbing connections to protect an application from water and gas leaks. Most Teflon tape materials are white or color-coded with consistency similar to putty, making most Teflon tape types removable. Some characteristics to look for when evaluating Teflon tape include chemical resistance and heat strength, tensile strength, and adhesive backing such as acrylic and silicone.

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a fluoropolymer resin, which is another name given to Teflon tape. PTFE tape is popular for its heat resistance, strength and durability. PTFE Teflon tape has applications in the food processing, packaging and handling industries.
Try: Precision Coating provides detailed information about Teflon and PTFE types and related applications. The Acme How To site presents instructions on how to safely apply Teflon tape to plumbing and pipe connections.

Acrylic

Acrylic is a common adhesive backing material applied to Teflon tape. Acrylic Teflon tape is made from fiberglass material intended to withstand temperatures that range from -100 degrees to 275 degrees Fahrenheit. It is also known for chemical resistance and the ability to withstand heavy-duty applications.
Try: Find information and data sheets at the CS Hyde Company website.

Silicone

Silicone is another type of adhesive backing applied to Teflon tape. Silicone is also made from woven fiberglass and it has lower bond strength. Silicone tape can withstand higher temperature ranges, from -100 degrees to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
Try: TapeCase features brief descriptions of acrylic and silicone-based Teflon tape.

Thread seal

Thread seal is another term that describes Teflon tape. The thickness of the tape is suitable for sealing gas lines or oxygen tanks. It can also be used in water, chemical and oil-based applications.
Try: AA Thread Seal Tape notes the common dimensions, standards and uses of Teflon thread seal tape.

Skived

Skived Teflon tape is made from virgin PTFE. The skived grade of Teflon tape features exceptional electrical qualities that make it perfect for wire and cable insulation and protection. Skived Teflon tape is best suited for applications in the aerospace, pulp and paper, electronics, chemical processing and telecommunications industries.
Try: Plastomer Technologies describes skived PTFE tape in more detail.

Zoned

Zoned PTFE or Teflon tape is designed to withstand extreme heat during bag sealing and packaging operations when other coated adhesives cannot endure such temperatures.
Try: Find descriptions of zoned Teflon tape at Packaging Tape Inc.