FAQs
Below are some of the typical questions that we are asked by customers when requesting a quote or seeking technical assistance for their application:
What is the difference between Teflon™ and PTFE?
PTFE is the abbreviation commonly used for the fluoropolymer material "polytetrafluoroethylene". The Teflon™ brand applies to many fluoroplastics including but not limited to Teflon™ PTFE. The brand name is now owned by Chemours (formerly by DuPont).
What is the acceptable operating temperature range of PTFE?
PTFE has useful properties across the wide temperature range of -450º F to 500º F (-268º C to 260º C). Mechanical and thermal properties will vary throughout this range. APT references Chemours Teflon™ PTFE Properties Handbook. The data contained in the handbook is a useful guide for selecting an appropriate PTFE compound. Actual part performance will be affected by end use service conditions.
What is the chemical compatibility of PTFE?
PTFE is essentially chemically inert and is highly resistant to chemical attack up to its 500º F. maximum continuous operating temperature. As indicated in the referenced PTFE Handbook above, there are a few exceptions including molten alkali metals, turbulent liquid, or gaseous fluorine; and a few fluorochemicals, such as chlorine trifluoride, ClF3, or oxygen difluoride, OF2, which readily liberate free fluorine at elevated temperatures. Several tables are available on the web supporting appropriate usage of PTFE with chemicals and various concentrations and temperatures.
Does APT use cutting fluids when machining PTFE?
We do not use cutting fluids when machining PTFE. This helps keep the PTFE part clean.
What CAD file formats are used at APT?
When submitting your RFQ, please provide a fully dimensioned 2-D drawing in PDF format if that's possible. This will expedite the review of your request. If you do not have a drawing, please provide a sketch, photo and/or complete description of the part you wish to have made. Document and image files can include PDF, DOC, PPT, JPG and TIF.
APT engineers work with both SolidWorks (.sldprt) and AutoCAD (.dwg) native formats. We can also import 2-D, DXF and 3-D, IGS and STP files. Please contact us ahead of time if you have a different format to insure we will be able to view that type.
Does APT have a minimum order requirement?
We do not have a minimum quantity requirement but we do have a $250.00 minimum charge for domestic orders. (See comments below for International orders).
Does APT accept credit cards?
Yes: VISA, MasterCard and American Express are accepted at APT.
Why are small quantities of custom, made-to-order parts expensive?
Setup costs contribute to the price of an item when we quote your part. If you order only one or a small quantity of parts, this setup cost is spread across that small number. Setup cost per piece remains high. On the other hand, if it is spread across a larger production run, the per piece cost is less and "the economy of scale" is much better. We will present a variety of quantity levels when we quote a part. This allows you to see this economy of scale and consider the unit price reduction at each level.
Do you ship orders outside of the USA?
Yes. Please email or call us to discuss our terms. International orders are subject to a minimum order value of $1200.00 USD. Our preferred payment terms are "Pre-Paid" via credit card. If approved by management, payment by wire transfer might be possible. We are moving away from this method. Bank fees for processing and currency exchange are charged. A proforma invoice will be provided to you via email. Prepayment by check mailed to APT is also acceptable. Your order will be released once the check has been deposited and cleared.
What Shipping Carriers do you use for International orders?
International shipments MUST be shipped "Collect" using your provided UPS, FedEX, or DHL account number (supplied to us at time of order). The account must allow shipments from the USA. DHL account numbers starting with the number "9" are required. Shipping collect assures that all shipping charges, duty, tax, etc. are paid by you directly to your shipping provider. If a package pick up is arranged by the customer, APT will provide package details such as box size, weight, harmonized code and a description of the contents once your parts are ready to ship. Our pickup address is 45 Broadcommon Road, Bristol, RI 02809 USA.
Teflon™ is a trademark of THE CHEMOURS COMPANY FC, LLC used under license by Applied Plastics Technology, Inc.
