This specification covers the testing and requirements of extruded and compression molded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) rods and heavy-walled tubing manufactured from virgin or reprocessed PTFE resin. Covered here are three types of PTFE fluorocarbon materials as follows: Type I (premium), materials having maximum physical and electrical properties to meet rigid requirements; Type II (general purpose), materials having properties required of general electrical, mechanical, and chemical applications; and Type III, materials for noncritical chemical, electrical, and mechanical applications. These types are further subdivided into two grades, and even further into four classes as appropriate. Sampled specimens shall be appropriately tested on the following: workmanship and appearance (color, finish, and internal defects); specific gravity; tensile strength and elongation; dielectric strength; dimensional stability; and melting point.

1.1 This specification covers extruded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) rod, heavy-walled tubing, and basic shapes manufactured from the PTFE resin of Specification D 4894 and reprocessed PTFE resin (as defined in Guides D 5033 and D 7209).

1.2 The specification covers all sizes of rod, tubing, and basic shapes with a wall thickness of 1.6 mm (¹/₁₆ in.) or greater. These materials must be made wholly from PTFE and produced in accordance with good commercial ram extrusion practices.

Note 1—This specification and ISO/DIS 13000-1 (1997) and ISO/DIS 13000-2 (1997) differ in approach, however, data obtained using either are technically equivalent.

Note 2—For compression molded PTFE materials, see Specification D 3294. Material that can be certified to Specification D 3294 may be substituted for Specification D 1710, however the reverse in not true.

1.3 The values stated in SI units, as detailed in IEEE/ASTM SI 10 are to be regarded as the standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are provided for information only.

1.4 The following precautionary caveat pertains to the test methods portion, Section 12, only of this specification: This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.