PVDF Polyvinylidene fluoride
Polymers are commonly used materials for the production of plastics. Due to its insulating properties and chemical, and physical resistance, PVDF is one of the most widely used raw materials at KK SOLUTIONS. As an expert in the processing and creation of polymer products, we focus on solutions that provide our customers with the maximum quality at the lowest cost.
What is PVDF and how is it obtained?
Polyvinylidene fluoride is a fluoropolymer that is formed by polymerizing vinylidene difluoride. In production form, it is most often found as granules, which can be molded by common thermal methods. The most commonly used methods for obtaining polyvinylidene difluoride are suspension polymerization, also known as pearl polymerization, and emulsion polymerization.
The former produces PVDF in granular form, while the latter provides the product in the form of latex, a liquid intermediate. The choice of method for obtaining PVDF can depend on the further processing phase of the raw material.
Properties of PVDF
The widespread use of polyvinylidene fluoride is due to its excellent physical and chemical properties. Among the most important of these are:
- Inertness to food contact
- Resistance to compression, creep and impact, as well as high levels of rigidity
- Lack of negative effects of strong acids and bases
- Resistance to hydrolysis and a high degree of waterproofing
- Very good sliding properties
- Ability to be exposed to weathering and UV radiation
- Ease in maintaining the desired dimensions
- High tolerance of operating temperature variation (up to +150°C)
- Low flammability level
- Ease of plastic and mechanical processing
The most common ways of processing PVDF
Obtaining finished products from PVDF is usually carried out by two methods - extrusion (extrusion) and calendering. The extrusion method involves pushing the plasticized semi-finished product through shaping molds. As a result of heating the granules and introducing them into the cylinder, any shape can be formed without difficulty. As a result of extrusion, long pieces are obtained, which can be cut into smaller unit parts or wound, for example, on spools or drums.
PVDF processing by calendering is slightly different. The input semi-finished product is a piece of polymer, which is passed through cylindrical elements called calanders (hence the name of the process). Under pressure and pulling through the calanders, the polymer is formed. The process results in a film, which is used to further design products in the form of plastics.
In which industries is PVDF used?
Very good physical and chemical properties are the reason for the widespread use of PVDF in the construction industry. The material is used to produce ducts for aggressive media. It is also a great product for creating sliding coatings, which is why it can be found inside pipes, tanks and transmission systems. Resistance to chemicals is also noticeable at elevated temperatures, which is why the construction, chemical and petrochemical industries often use PVDF specifically.
In addition, polyvinylidene fluoride can be found as a raw material used in:
- pharmaceutical and medical
- electrical
- hydraulic
- automotive
- food and beverage
- metallurgical
Processing and creating PVDF products at KK SOLUTIONS.
At KK SOLUTIONS' manufacturing facility, we use state-of-the-art design and manufacturing tools. Our engineering team is ready to create a wide variety of plastic products, as well as finished devices composed of many materials. We work with proven metal suppliers, so we go far beyond just PVDF processing. KK SOLUTIONS is interested in quality and providing the customer with a finished product in a form and at a price that is favorable to the customer.
Therefore, right now, choose the best way for you to contact us and tell us your expectations. You can be sure that our specialists will face any challenge. KK SOLUTIONS is our experience for your success!