Fluoropolymer coatings, like Teflon or PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), are quite well-known for their non-stick and release properties, as well as their high temperature resistance and chemical resistant properties.

Surfaces coated with fluoropolymer coating can actually be relatively easy to clean and maintain.

Regular Cleaning Of Surfaces Coated with Fluoropolymer Coatings

As fluoropolymer coatings naturally have exceptional nonstick characteristics, dirt and contaminants are less likely to stick to a surface where this coating has been applied. This means that regular cleaning is sufficient enough as long as it is done with a cleaner that is mild and non-abrasive. Rough cleaners and scrubbing pads can cause the coating to sustain potential damage due to the harsh and abrasive quality of them.

The use of a soft cloth or sponge is recommended as this is more gentle. Just use the cloth to wipe a surface as you normally would to remove any stains or dust.

The Non-Stick Surface

Fortunately, the nonstick property of a fluoropolymer coating should be able to help you with cleaning. Fluoropolymer coatings have a general ability to repel substances such as oil, grease, and food residues and they will not stick very securely to the coated surface.

Any stubborn residue that is present should be removed quite easily with a soft cloth and maybe a specialised cleaner that the manufacturer recommends.

Avoid Abrasive Materials

As abrasion can lead to the fluoropolymer sustaining damage, it is best to avoid using any abrasive tools or similar scrubbing pads when you’re cleaning. Looking after your product or item carefully means that you can take care and prolong the efficiency (and appearance) of the coating.

Even though there are many thermal spray coatings with a protection against abrasion quality, abrasive materials can wear down the coating. Especially if the exposure to abrasion is regular or consistent.

Resistance Against Chemicals

Fluoropolymer coatings are known to be exceptionally resistant to chemicals and that includes solvents and different cleaning agents. However, that doesn’t mean that every chemical has no affect. There are certain harsh chemicals and highly concentrated acids that can damage the coating if they’re in contact with it for a long period of time.

For instance, using strong acidic or alkaline cleaners can damage the coating over time. Especially if they’re not recommended by a manufacturer.

High Temperature Resistance

Fluoropolymer coatings have the ability withstand high temperatures which makes them ideal for many components and parts across several industries. Of course, prolonged and consistent exposure to heat and high temperatures can have a significant effect on the performance of the coating.

When maintaining a surface coated with a fluoropolymer coating, you should always be cautious with heat sources and make sure that you avoid using open flames or excessive heat directly on the coated surface.

Perform Maintenance Inspections

Knowing that the coating is naturally a repellent and protected against issues like abrasion, wear, and corrosion can often lead to us lacking in maintaining it with inspections.

A maintenance inspection can help you greatly as you can notice if there are any areas that look compromised or are starting to show deterioration. You can spot signs of chipping, wear, or damage and then you can consult with the coating manufacturer on advice for getting a reapplication or a repair.

Important Considerations

Not every brand or type of fluoropolymer coating is the same. This means that the specific care and maintenance guidance for a fluoropolymer coating can vary slightly. The pointers we have given in this blog are certainly more generalised and aren’t specific to only one type.

If you want the most accurate or appropriate maintenance guidance or cleaning procedures for your coated surface, it is best to contact the manufacturer of the coating. They’ll be able to provide specific advice for cleaning and maintaining your fluoropolymer coating.

Alphatek’s Fluoropolymer Coatings

Alphatek has a proprietary range of HYPERSLIP Fluoropolymer Coatings offering several benefits and properties for your application:

  • Low friction
  • Non-stick and release
  • Chemical isolation and inertness
  • Protection against corrosion
  • Electrical and dielectric insulation

All properties are combined into one Fluoropolymer coating system to provide a higher level of flexibility and enable cutting-edge designs.

The adaptability of fluoropolymer coatings means that they can provide significant value to a large variety of industrial applications.

The features of fluoropolymer industrial coatings contribute to the same thing: increasing profitability by enhancing performance, lifespan, and efficiency.

Get in touch with the team here at Alphatek and we’ll help you find the right thermal spray coating solution for your application.