Fabrication Techniques

It is possible to fabricate POREX Porous Plastics in a number of different ways. As most of the techniques discussed require heating a material to above its softening point, it is almost certain that the porous characteristics of the material will be altered. Nevertheless, the following recommendations are meant as starting points. The successful development of any product will almost always require a good deal of trial and error, followed by functionality experimentation. Experience with a method utilizing conventional plastics would be helpful.

When heating porous plastics, the user should adjust the temperature upward until a change of appearance occurs. A translucent appearance indicates softening, and a transparent appearance indicates melting. If porosity at a seal is desired, the material should not be heated beyond its translucent stage.

It will be noted by those experienced in solid plastics fabrication that longer dwell times are usually necessary to soften POREX Porous Plastics than would be necessary for non-porous polymers. This is due to the heat insulating property of the pores.

The softening and melting points given are approximate. Overheating the surface of porous plastics will seal the pores. In many cases, our materials are blends of several polymers, therefore, experimentation will be necessary to obtain best results. The following recommendations apply to the listed materials:

Material Melting Point:
Polyethylene (UHMWPE & HDPE): 135°C (275°F)
Polypropylene (PP): 173°C (343°F)
Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF): 160°C (320°F)
Poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE): 327°C (620°F)

Click here to view the Physical Properties of Polymers chart

It is important to note...

Porex cannot anticipate or control the conditions under which the technical data and products may be used. Porex does not guarantee the applicability or accuracy of the information or the suitability of our products in any given situation. Unless otherwise noted, the data on service temperatures; softening and melting points; solvent resistance; coefficient of thermal expansion and tensile strength are for the polymer in solid form. All of these properties will be lower from the porous form of the polymer. Users should make their own tests to determine the suitability of each product for their particular application. The products discussed are sold without such warranty, either expressed or implied. Statements concerning the possible use of Porex products are not intended as recommendations or infringement of any patent.