English
Should PTFE Tape Be Replaced? How Often?
1.Traditional PTFE Tape，Does it need replacement?
Yes. Traditional thread seal tape ages over time, leading to reduced sealing performance. Aged tape tends to shrink, creating gaps and increasing leakage risks. Long-term use may also cause it to fragment into small pieces that enter pipelines, clogging valves or precision components.
Replacement Interval
Standard Lifespan:Theoretical lifespan is ~5–8 years. However, factors like temperature, media corrosion, and mechanical vibration may necessitate earlier replacement.
Immediate replacement required if:
1.Leakage: Slow seepage of water/gas at joints.
2.Brittleness: Tape becomes brittle, crumbly, or loses elasticity.
3.Water contamination: Degraded fragments contaminate water (critical in potable water lines).
Preventive replacement advice:
Non-critical lines (e.g., household water pipes): Inspect every 5–8 years; retain if leak-free.
Critical systems (gas, hydraulic lines): Overhaul every 3–5 years; replace if aged.
Replacement Procedure
Remove old tape: Soak threads in water, then scrub to remove residue.
Rewind tape: Clean and dry threads. Wrap 2–3 even layers counterclockwise from the root of external threads (moderate thickness). Avoid over-thickening, which prevents proper tightening.
2.Liquid Thread Sealant (Anaerobic Adhesive) – Does it need replacement?
Generally not required. Cured liquid sealant forms thermosetting plastic with exceptional aging resistance (lifespan ≥50 years). It neither shrinks nor fragments unless sealing fails or disassembly is needed.
Replacement Scenarios
Seal failure: Cracking due to improper installation (e.g., uncleaned oil) or overtemperature (>150°C).
Maintenance disassembly: Remove residue thoroughly (wire brush/special solvent) before reapplying.
Material incompatibility: Accidental use on plastics/pure oxygen systems; replace with compatible material.
Maintenance Advice
Post-installation check: Pressure-test after 24h cure (25°C); no maintenance needed if leak-free.
Extreme environments: For >150°C or strong corrosive media, consult manufacturers for specialty grades.
3.Replacement Precautions
Traditional thread seal tape:
Always wrap counterclockwise with uniform thickness.
Never use on gas lines (requires specialized sealing tape).
Liquid thread sealant:
Degrease thoroughly before application (must not use motor oil; inhibits curing).
Apply to both internal and external threads for pipes >DN65.
Tel
WhatsApp