LATI PTFE-free self-lubricating compounds, designed to reduce friction and ensure high tribological performance while respecting the environment
R&D, Self-lubricating
R&D, Self-lubricatingbyadmin

The Evolution of Self-Lubricating Materials

PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) has been the reference in low-friction materials for decades thanks to its extremely low friction coefficient and wear resistance.
However, increasing regulatory restrictions on fluorine and halogenated derivatives are pushing the industry towards more sustainable and safer PTFE-free alternatives.

Traditional PTFE-based self-lubricating compounds, while ensuring excellent performance, present some technical and environmental limitations:

  • formation of mold deposits during injection molding;
  • corrosion of equipment due to thermal degradation of PTFE;
  • release of fluorinated compounds into the environment at end-of-life;
  • disposal difficulties under new European regulations (REACH, RoHS, PFAS).

To address these issues, research has focused on PTFE-free self-lubricating solutions, capable of combining high tribological performance, environmental compatibility, and ease of industrial processing.

LATILUB: the New Generation of PTFE-free Self-Lubricating Compounds

The LATILUB line, developed by LATI Industria Termoplastici, represents the most advanced technological response to this need.
The formulation is based on UHMWPE (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene), a polyolefin known for its extraordinary abrasion resistance and low friction coefficient, comparable to that of PTFE.

Tribological Properties of LATILUB Compounds

Property Value/Behavior Technical Benefit
Friction coefficient Comparable to PTFE Smooth sliding and reduced wear
Abrasion resistance Excellent Longer component life
Creep and fatigue resistance High Stability under dynamic loads
Operating temperature Up to 200°C Suitable for harsh thermal environments
Lower density than PTFE Approx. –20% Weight and cost reduction

UHMWPE, dispersed in amorphous or semi-crystalline matrices such as PA, PBT, or PPS, enables compounds with low static and dynamic friction coefficients, including versions reinforced with glass or carbon fiber.

Advantages of PTFE-free Self-Lubricating Compounds

  1. Better industrial processability

PTFE-free compounds eliminate thermal degradation and mold corrosion issues, simplifying the injection molding process and increasing equipment service life.

  1. Environmental and regulatory compliance

The absence of fluorine and fluorinated derivatives makes them compliant with REACH, RoHS, and new PFAS-free restrictions, promoting sustainable management throughout the product lifecycle.

  1. Balanced mechanical and tribological performance

Despite the absence of PTFE, performance in terms of mechanical strength, elasticity, and dimensional stability remains comparable to fluorinated materials, even in demanding applications such as:

  • gears and bearings,
  • guides and slides,
  • valves and pistons,
  • moving components for automotive or food industry.

Application Example: LATILUB 66-10e G/15

One of the most representative materials in the range is LATILUB 66-10E G/15, a PA66-based compound reinforced with glass fiber and filled with UHMWPE.

Thanks to its Gold Moldflow characterization, this grade allows designers to:

  • simulate injection molding with high precision;
  • predict material deformation and flow;
  • optimize self-lubricating component design while reducing development time and costs.

Comparison of Self-Lubricating Solutions

Characteristic Traditional PTFE UHMWPE (LATILUB)
Friction coefficient Very low Low (similar)
Wear resistance Excellent Excellent
Thermal stability Up to 250°C Up to 200°C
Environmental safety Limited (fluorine) PTFE-free
Processability Difficult Excellent
Density High Lighter

Learn more

👉 Discover the LATILUB PTFE-free range at www.lati.com
and evaluate the most suitable solutions to reduce friction and wear in high-performance industrial, mechanical, or tribological applications.

FAQ – PTFE-free Self-Lubricating Compound

  1. Do PTFE-free compounds have the same level of smoothness as PTFE?
    Yes, thanks to UHMWPE, the friction coefficients are comparable and ensure excellent tribological performance.
  2. Do these compounds withstand high temperatures?
    Yes, they can operate continuously up to 200°C, depending on the polymer matrix.
  3. In which sectors are PTFE-free self-lubricating compounds used?
    They are ideal for automotive, electromechanical, industrial and food equipment, wherever low friction and long life are required.