PTFE film classification
ePTFE microporous PTFE film
Low density, used as core dielectric for phase-stable coaxial cables and high-speed data lines
Skived / sintered dense PTFE film
High density, mostly used for high-temperature wires, heat tracing cables and shielding separator layers
What types of cables mainly use PTFE films?
PTFE films (including expanded PTFE / ePTFE microporous films) are primarily used in the following special cables, usually as wrapped insulation layers. They feature low dielectric loss, wide temperature resistance range and excellent chemical stability.
RF / microwave coaxial cables & phase-stable cables (most common application)
Used in 5G, radar, satellite communication, vector network analyzers and antenna feedlines. ePTFE microporous PTFE films serve as dielectric material. Phase changes minimally with temperature, and signal attenuation is low at high frequencies, which is the characteristic of phase-stable RF cables.
Aerospace wires & cables
Airframe wiring, aircraft harnesses and spacecraft wiring harnesses. Lightweight, resistant to temperatures from -200℃ to 260℃, flame retardant, and resistant to oils and hydraulic fluid corrosion.
High-speed data transmission cables
Direct Attach Copper (DAC) cables and high-frequency differential signal wires. Low Dk (dielectric constant) to guarantee high-speed signal integrity and reduce crosstalk and attenuation.
Electronic countermeasure special cable
Signal cables for radar, electronic warfare equipment and internal wiring of missiles, designed for extreme temperature and vibration environments.
High-temperature heating cables & heat tracing cables
Pipe line heat tracing wires. Stable under long-term high-temperature working conditions and anti-aging.
Medical equipment cables
MRI coaxial signal cables and minimally invasive surgical instrument cables. Clean, resistant to disinfectants and low extractables.
Automotive special wiring harnesses
High-temperature wiring harnesses in engine compartments and some high-voltage charging cables. Resistant to engine oil and high temperatures.
Industrial high-temperature / corrosion-resistant cables
Thermocouple extension wires, chemical instrument signal cables and high-frequency robot drag-chain cables. Resistant to acid, alkali and repeated bending.
Note: Ordinary low-voltage power cables and common Ethernet cables do not adopt PTFE films due to high cost. PTFE / ePTFE wrapping films are only applied in special cables requiring high frequency, high temperature, phase stability or strong corrosion resistance.