
SKF
Thermoplastics (SKF Seals)
Thermoplastic materials such as PTFE, PEEK, UHMWPE, and polyamide (PA) are used in SKF seals where low friction, high chemical resistance, or high temperature capability is required beyond elastomer limits. PTFE is widely used for low-friction piston and rod seal slippers, spring-energised Spectraseal jackets, and back-up rings. PEEK is selected for extreme pressure and temperature environments (up to 300°C). UHMWPE offers high abrasion resistance and low friction for water and slurry applications. Polyamide provides a tough, cost-effective material for back-up rings and guide rings. SKF processes these thermoplastics by injection moulding and by machining from stock shapes in the SEAL JET process. The thermoplastic family extends the operational boundaries of sealing systems into the most aggressive process media and temperature extremes.
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PTFE
Extremely low friction, wide chemical compatibility, high‑temperature tolerance.
PEEK
High strength, stiffness, and maximum temperature up to 300°C.
UHMWPE
Outstanding abrasion resistance, low friction, self‑lubricating.
PA (Polyamide)
Tough, economical back‑up ring material.
Easy Machinability
All thermoplastics processable by SEAL JET.
Filled Grades Available
Glass, carbon, bronze, or MoS₂ fillers enhance performance.
PTFE Fillers and Their Impact on Seal Wear
Virgin PTFE wears relatively quickly under load. Adding a glass fibre filler improves compressive strength and wear life. Bronze‑filled PTFE combines low friction with better thermal conductivity. SKF selects the filler package based on the application’s PV value and the mating surface material, optimising both seal life and the wear of the shaft or piston rod.


PEEK for Cryogenic Valve Stem Seals
At LNG temperatures (‑162°C), most polymers become brittle. PEEK retains its toughness and modulus down to these cryogenic temperatures, making it the material of choice for the primary seal in LNG loading‑arm swivel joints and cryogenic butterfly valves.