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Low outgassing screws, nuts, bolts, and washers are fasteners that are made from materials that have a low rate of outgassing, or the release of gases into the surrounding environment. They are used in a variety of applications where outgassing is a concern, such as in environments where vacuum conditions are present.
Outgassing can be a concern in certain applications because the release of gases into the environment can affect the performance of equipment or the surrounding environment. For example, in the aerospace industry, outgassing can cause contamination of optical systems or interfere with the performance of sensors, and in vacuum environments, outgassing can cause the pressure to increase, which can affect the performance of equipment or processes.
Low outgassing polymers are designed to release minimal volatile compounds, making them ideal for sensitive environments. Common types include PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene), which offers excellent chemical resistance and low friction, making it widely used in aerospace and semiconductor applications. PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) is valued for its high strength, thermal stability, and low outgassing properties, making it perfect for use in vacuum systems and high-temperature environments such as spacecraft. PI (Polyimide) is another low outgassing polymer known for its ability to endure extreme heat and harsh conditions, commonly used in electronics, optics, and aerospace systems.
Low outgassing polymer fasteners are typically used in industries and applications where maintaining a contaminant-free environment is critical. In aerospace, they are used in spacecraft and satellite components to prevent the release of gases that could interfere with sensitive instruments or optical systems. In semiconductor manufacturing, low outgassing fasteners are essential to prevent contamination of cleanrooms and delicate electronic components. They are also commonly used in medical devices, ensuring no harmful substances are released during sterilization or use in sensitive environments. Additionally, low outgassing fasteners are employed in vacuum systems, optical devices, and high-precision equipment to maintain the integrity of the operational environment.
Low outgassing polymers are produced through careful selection of raw materials and specific manufacturing processes to minimise the release of volatile compounds. The polymer's chemical structure is designed to have stable, tightly bound molecules that resist breaking down and releasing gases. During production, additives that could contribute to outgassing are either avoided or highly controlled. The manufacturing process may also involve extended curing or heat treatment phases to remove any residual solvents, moisture, or volatile substances. Additionally, high-purity grades of the polymer are used to ensure minimal contamination and low volatile content, making the material suitable for sensitive environments where outgassing needs to be minimised.
Low outgassing polymer fasteners offer key advantages in contamination control, making them ideal for sensitive environments like cleanrooms, vacuum systems, and optical devices. They perform exceptionally well in vacuum conditions, making them suitable for aerospace and semiconductor applications. These fasteners also maintain thermal stability at high temperatures, resist chemical exposure, and offer durability, reducing the need for maintenance or replacement. Their combination of cleanliness, chemical resistance, and long-term reliability makes low outgassing fasteners essential for industries requiring precision and high performance in demanding environments.
Low outgassing polymers are well-suited to industries like aerospace, electronics, and chemical processing due to their excellent thermal stability, allowing them to withstand extreme temperatures. They offer high chemical resistance, making them durable in corrosive environments, and provide strong mechanical strength, ensuring structural stability in demanding applications. These polymers also act as excellent electrical insulators, ideal for use in electronics and electrical systems, while their lightweight nature reduces the overall weight of components, improving efficiency in sectors like aerospace and automotive. These combined properties make them versatile and reliable in harsh, high-performance environments.