PFA (Perfluoroalkoxy) Polymer Solutions for Industrial Applications

Understanding PFA Materials in High-Performance Industrial Settings

Perfluoroalkoxy (PFA) represents one of the most versatile and high-performing fluoropolymers available for demanding applications. As a leading manufacturer of custom polymer solutions, Pexco offers comprehensive PFA capabilities for industries requiring exceptional chemical resistance, thermal stability, and purity.

PFA Solutions Available from Pexco

Pexco offers specialized types of PFA materials, each engineered for specific application requirements:

High-Melt Flow PFA

Higher melt flow PFA resins are used in our injection molding process. These virgin resins have the ability for greater flow into intricate cavities.

High-Performance PFA

Our tubing, pipe, rod and other extrusions produced using high performance, low melt flow PFA resin provide excellent chemical resistance, thermal stability, and mechanical properties suitable for most critical applications. These materials offer an optimal balance of performance and value for general chemical processing, industrial equipment, and less demanding high-purity applications.

Ultra-High Purity (UHP) PFA

Designed specifically for semiconductor, pharmaceutical, and other contamination-sensitive industries, our UHP PFA materials feature:

• Exceptionally low extractable levels
• Minimal particle generation
• Enhanced surface smoothness
• Extreme stress crack resistance
• Superior flex life
• Rigorous quality control and cleanroom processing
• Full traceability and lot control

Dual Containment PFA

Our innovative dual containment PFA systems provide an additional layer of safety and protection for transporting highly toxic, corrosive, or valuable chemicals:

• Tube-in-tube design with inner PFA carrier and outer PFA containment layer
• Custom-engineered for specific application requirements
• Enhanced safety for hazardous chemical transport

What Makes PFA Superior for Critical Manufacturing Processes?

PFA combines the exceptional chemical resistance of PTFE with melt-processability, creating a polymer uniquely suited for the most demanding industrial environments. With a continuous service temperature of up to 260°C (500°F), superior dielectric properties, and near-universal chemical resistance, PFA provides unmatched performance where standard polymers fail.

PFA Applications Across Key Industries

Semiconductor Manufacturing: Ultra-High Purity PFA Solutions

In semiconductor fabrication, where even sub-PPB contamination can compromise yields, our PFA components deliver the exceptional purity and chemical resistance required for process chemical handling, gas distribution systems, and wafer processing equipment.

• Ultra-high purity PFA tubing with <1 PPB extractable levels
• Custom-engineered fluid handling components for aggressive etchants and cleaning chemistries
• Precision-manufactured PFA fittings for cleanroom gas distribution systems
• PFA heat exchangers for temperature-critical semiconductor processes

Chemical Processing: PFA Tubing and Components for Corrosive Environments

Chemical processors rely on PFA’s exceptional resistance to acids, bases, and solvents for safe, contamination-free fluid handling. PFA fluid delivery systems maintain integrity in the most aggressive chemical environments.

• Chemical transport systems for concentrated acids and oxidizers
• PFA-lined valves and pumps for corrosive fluid handling
• Custom-engineered PFA heat exchangers resistant to chemical attack
• High-purity manifold systems for critical process chemicals

Pharmaceutical Production: High-Purity PFA Systems for Contamination-Free Processing

Pharmaceutical manufacturing demands materials that ensure product purity while resisting cleaning agents and process chemicals. PFA components meet these exacting standards with:

• USP Class VI compliant resins for API production
• Custom-engineered PFA vessels for high-purity pharmaceutical ingredients
• PFA-lined reactors for corrosion-resistant pharmaceutical processing
• Sanitary PFA fittings designed for pharmaceutical manufacturing environments

Food and Beverage Processing: PFA Materials for Safe, Efficient Production

Food and beverage manufacturers value PFA for its non-stick properties, chemical resistance, and compliance with FDA regulations for food contact. Pexco offers:

• FDA-compliant PFA tubing for food processing equipment
• PFA-lined tanks and vessels for food-grade ingredients
• Custom PFA components for high-temperature food processing applications
• Wear-resistant PFA surfaces for non-stick food handling

Laboratory Applications: Precision PFA Components for Research and Analysis

Scientific laboratories require materials that maintain sample integrity while resisting the full spectrum of laboratory chemicals. Our laboratory-grade PFA products include:

• High-purity PFA sample containers for trace analysis
• PFA tubing and fittings for analytical equipment
• Custom PFA components for specialized laboratory instruments
• PFA-lined reaction vessels for laboratory-scale chemical processes

PFA vs. Other Fluoropolymers

Comparing Fluoropolymer Materials for Industrial Applications

Understanding the differences between various fluoropolymers is essential for selecting the optimal material for your application. PFA offers distinct advantages in many situations, but other fluoropolymers may be suitable depending on specific requirements.

Chemical Resistance Comparison: PFA vs. PTFE

While PTFE offers excellent chemical resistance, PFA provides superior performance in several key areas:

Why Choose PFA for High-Temperature Applications?

PFA maintains its critical properties at elevated temperatures, making it ideal for applications where other polymers degrade:

• Minimal outgassing at high temperatures
• Dimensional stability across wide temperature ranges
• Maintained mechanical strength at elevated temperatures
• Superior stress crack resistance in thermal cycling applications
• Excellent electrical properties even at elevated temperatures

PFA Machining and Fabrication

Advanced Manufacturing Capabilities for Precision PFA Components

Pexco leverages state-of-the-art equipment and proprietary techniques to fabricate precision PFA components that meet the most demanding specifications:

• CNC machining of complex PFA parts with tight tolerances
• Precision extrusion of PFA tubing, pipe, rod and profiles with consistent dimensions
• Injection molding for complex PFA components and fittings
• Multi-axis machining for intricate geometries
• Secondary operations including drilling, threading, and surface finishing

Quality Control for Critical PFA Components

Our comprehensive quality control processes ensure that every PFA component meets or exceeds specifications:

• Dimensional verification using precision measurement equipment
• Pressure testing for fluid-handling components
• Visual and automated inspection for surface defects
• Material certification for traceability
• Lot control for process validation

Engineering Custom PFA Solutions for Critical Applications

Tailored PFA Solutions for Specific Applications

Our engineering team works directly with OEMs and end-users to develop customized PFA components optimized for specific performance requirements:

• Custom-formulated PFA compounds with enhanced properties
• Application-specific PFA tubing dimensions for optimized flow characteristics
• Integrated PFA fluid handling systems designed for specific process requirements
• Hybrid PFA components combining multiple materials for optimal performance

Bespoke PFA Extrusion Services

Leveraging decades of fluoropolymer extrusion expertise, Pexco offers custom PFA extrusion capabilities for unique applications:

• Multi-lumen PFA tubing for complex fluid handling applications
• Custom profile PFA extrusions for specialized components
• Precision tolerance PFA tubing for critical dimensions

Customizable High-Purity PFA Components

When off-the-shelf components won’t meet your specifications, our custom PFA fabrication capabilities deliver exactly what you need:

• Precision-machined PFA parts from solid stock
• Custom-molded PFA components for complex geometries
• CNC-fabricated PFA products to exact specifications
• Custom PFA welded assemblies for integrated systems

Preventing Contamination in High-Purity Chemical Transport

Maintaining Purity in Critical Processes

Contamination in high-purity chemical systems can compromise product quality and equipment integrity. PFA offers significant advantages for maintaining system purity:

• Minimal extractables and leachables even with aggressive chemicals
• Non-porous surface prevents particle entrapment
• Low moisture absorption reduces contamination risks
• Smooth surface finish minimizes particle generation

Best Practices for High-Purity PFA Systems

Implementing proper design and maintenance protocols with PFA components ensures optimal performance in high-purity applications:

• Clean room fabrication of critical components
• Proper installation techniques to maintain system integrity
• Validation protocols for high-purity PFA systems
• Preventative maintenance schedules to ensure ongoing performance

Selecting Durable Materials for Aggressive Chemical Environments

Material Selection Criteria for Harsh Chemicals

When selecting materials for aggressive chemical service, several factors must be considered:

• Chemical compatibility with process media
• Temperature requirements for the application
• Pressure ratings needed for safe operation
• Mechanical property requirements under service conditions
• Purity requirements for the application

PFA Material Specifications for Industrial Applications

Pexco’s PFA materials meet or exceed industry specifications for critical applications:

• ASTM D3307 for PFA resin
• SEMI F57 & C90 for semiconductor applications
• NSF 61 & 372

Partner with Pexco for Your PFA Requirements

Custom PFA Tubing Manufacturing Capabilities

Pexco offers custom PFA tubing solutions designed to meet specific application requirements:

• Precision-engineered tubing in various dimensions
• Consistent wall thickness for reliable performance
• Custom colors and additives for specific applications
• Co-extrusion capabilities with other compatible polymers

Extensive Selection of Standard PFA Products

Pexco maintains a comprehensive inventory of PFA products ready for immediate delivery:

• PFA and UHP PFA tubing, pipe & rod in a wide range of sizes available to ship from stock
• PFA valves and flow control components
• PFA labware and laboratory components

Custom PFA Manufacturing Capabilities

For specialized applications requiring unique specifications, leverage our decades of experience in custom polymer manufacturing. Our team of engineers is ready to help you select or develop the right PFA solution:

• Engineering consultation for material selection
• Prototyping capabilities for proof-of-concept development
• Quality validation to your specifications
• Full production capabilities from small runs to high volume