Description
PTFE-coated glass reinforced fabric is a high-performance material used in Teflon inner seal tape, with adhesive applications for gliders and sailplanes. It increases durability, reduces friction, and protects moving components. This fabric is non-adhesive and supplied in handy 30 mm x 10 meter rolls. You can easily cut, shape, and install it for multiple sailplane uses. A common use is on LS8 sailplanes for S-seals. These require a low-friction surface for lasting performance and reliability.
Material Properties
This fabric blends the strength of glass fiber reinforcement with PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) for heat and chemical resistance. The glass fibers boost mechanical strength, preventing tears or deformation, even when flexed often. The PTFE coating creates a low-friction surface. It reduces wear when in contact with moving parts. As a non-adhesive, the fabric may be mechanically secured, sewn, or bonded with compatible adhesives or fasteners, increasing installation options.
Key properties include:
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High tensile strength from the glass reinforcement
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Low friction surface due to the PTFE coating
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Heat and chemical resistance for long life
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Non-adhesive backing enables different fixing options
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Lightweight for minimal impact on glider performance
Teflon inner seal tape, with adhesive: Applications in Gliders
A main use of PTFE-coated fabric in gliders is for LS8 S-seals. S-seals close gaps between wings, flaps, or control surfaces. This keeps airflow smooth and lowers aerodynamic drag. With PTFE coating, the seal:
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Slides smoothly along adjoining parts without sticking
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Resists wear and abrasion for long-term use
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Maintains tight sealing even after many movements
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Protects adjacent surfaces from friction or damage
Beyond LS8 S-seals, use this fabric for:
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Custom hinge liners or friction-reducing layers
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Low-friction strips under sliding panels or inspection covers
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Protective strips on composite or painted surfaces
Installation and Maintenance
As this fabric is non-adhesive, it can be cut to size and formed to fit the seal or surface. Secure it with:
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Mechanical fasteners like screws, rivets, or clips
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Compatible, glider-safe adhesives
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Sewing onto flexible materials or seal cores
Maintenance is easy. The fabric is highly resistant to wear, UV, and weather. Inspect regularly for frayed edges, delamination, or signs of use from active control surfaces.
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