PTFE or Teflon?

[John_N]

Searching the chandlers for a non-oilbased lubricant for my mainsail sliders etc. I came across Holts Prolube with PTFE at just under £4 and another product (apparently designed for the same sort of job) with Teflon at just under £10 for the same sized spray can.

Can any of the boffins amongst you advise me of the pros and cons and why the extra expense can be justified?

 

[Vara]

I thought PTFE and Teflon were the same thing,Generic v Trademarked?

 

[Anwen]

Correct. Teflon is the DuPont trade name for Polytetrafluoroethylene or PTFE for short. I used Maplin silicone lubricant with PTFE for my mainsail sliders, and it worked a treat. I have no qualms about using silicone in any form on my boat.

Hope this helps,
Jon

 

[BlueChip]

It is the same - Screwfix sell spray ptfe lubricant aerosols very cheaply