Kapton® was originally developed by DuPont, and has a very immense operating temperature range. It is a polyimide film that also has excellent dielectric properties. Tubing made of Kapton® film has many characteristics that are of use in a variety of industries. This article will attempt to cover the advantages of Kapton® film and its uses throughout major industries.
Initially used in aircraft wire insulation, it was soon discovered that its mechanical properties were not adequate for the job; often causing short-circuits. Even with this limitation, Kapton® offers excellent resistance to high temperatures and extreme operating environments like those experienced by the U.S, shuttle program. When formed into a tube, it makes for superior electrical protection due to its inherent dialectical properties.
When considering
Kapton® polyimide tubing, its wall thickness, inside diameter (ID), and need for rigidity or flexibility are important to determine. Its ability to achieve thinner wall thickness is optimal for confined wiring spaces, and augmenting it by combining it with other materials decreases its weak mechanical resistance to abrasion. Amber in color, polyimide tubing can be combined with other materials to get a composite that is flexible and has the excellent property of dielectric strength.
Common combinations include:
- Kapton® and Teflon (Kapton® FN) - increased chemical and moisture resistance when compared to standard Kapton HN
- Kapton® and conductive carbon (Kapton® RS) - increased mechanical wear resistance when compared to standard Kapton HN
- Kapton® and FEP - used for heat shrinkable wiring insulation that provides chemical resistance as well
Useful in numerous applications including electrical insulation, space sail construction, and fiber optic cabling; no wonder it has set the industry standards in dielectric strength and range of operating temperatures. For more information on all the standard types of Kapton® that PPG works with,
contact us today.