Micro-Tek has extensive capabilities to produce a wide range of PTFE dielectric cores for use in coaxial cables. These products are typically manufactured with conductors such as solid or stranded Silver Plated Copper (SPC) and Silver Plated Copper Clad Steel (SPCCS), which are commonly stocked for various applications. Other conductor options are available upon request, and we can also process customer-supplied materials when needed.

Our current manufacturing capabilities cover four product categories: Solid PTFE, Low-Loss PTFE (LD-Tek/Tough-Tek), PHAS-Tek, and VEL-Tek. LD-Tek and Tough-Tek are typically grouped together as low-loss PTFE options, offering improved velocity of propagation and reduced dielectric loss, with variations in mechanical toughness depending on application needs.

Micro-Tek is a specialty manufacturing company focused on creating value-added fluoropolymer-based products for avionics, military, space, telecommunications, medical industries, as well as high-performance computing and cryogenic applications. Micro-Tek is widely recognized as a global technology leader in fluoropolymer extrusion. With expertise in bonding fluoropolymers, etching systems, profile cable core Micro-Tek has demonstrated the ability to rapidly develop new technology for the changing needs of the market. Micro-Tek products are frequently used in microwave cable assemblies for high-performance systems across various industries.

Solid PTFE

PTFE has one of the lowest dielectric constants (2.05) and minimal signal loss of any plastic, making it ideal for use in coaxial core applications. Fully sintered PTFE provides excellent strength and stability as a dielectric. However, PTFE is subject to phase instability, primarily around its first-order transition temperature of about 66°F, which can cause signal delay in coaxial cables. This makes precise material selection essential in microwave coaxial cable design and construction.

Size Range:

Conductor: 0.0028” (#41awg) to 0.064” (#14awg)

Wall Thickness: from 0.004” to 0.040”

OD: from 0.015” to 0.120”

LD-Tek & Tough-Tek Low Density PTFE Coaxial Core

Micro-Tek’s LD-Tek (low density) polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coaxial core takes our conventional core to higher levels of performance by increasing the core’s velocity of propagation and lowering dielectric loss. LD-Tek is available over a similar range of diameters and conductors as our conventional core but offers VoPs as high as 76%- 78%. This product is supplied as a component to manufacturers of flexible and semi-rigid RF microwave coaxial cables.

Where a more robust dielectric is desired, Tough-Tek low density polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) can be specified. Micro-Tek can modify the manufacturing process to fine-tune the Velocity of Propagation (VoP) and enhance the dielectric’s outer surface for greater durability in demanding applications. The Tough-Tek variant offers a VoP range of 75% to 78%. It’s a reliable option for microwave cable systems requiring durable and efficient dielectric materials.

These products are available across a broad range of conductor sizes and dielectric dimensions, comparable to our conventional PTFE cores. Custom configurations and conductor materials are available upon request.

PHAS-Tek Phase Stable Core

Using Chemours FFR resins, Micro-Tek’s PHAS-Tek low density coaxial core takes our conventional core to higher levels of performance by increasing the core’s velocity of propagation. PHAS-Tek is not subject to the phase instability seen with PTFE giving these cores stable and reliable performance over the full temperature range with the tradeoff of a higher dielectric loss. PHAS-Tek is available over a wider range of diameters and conductors than our conventional core with VoPs from 76%- 82%. One of this core’s best suited applications is in aircraft and is supplied as a component to manufacturers of flexible and semi-rigid RF and microwave coaxial cables.

Size Range:

Conductor: 0.020” (#24awg) to 0.064” (#14awg)

Wall Thickness: from 0.015” to 0.060”

OD: from 0.050” to 0.180”

VEL-Tek High Velocity PTFE Coaxial Core

The highest-performing core technology available! VEL-Tek cores feature low structural VSWR, VoPs from 80% to 90%, and provide greater flexibility in finished cable manufacturing.

Micro-Tek’s VEL-Tek Coax Core delivers exceptional electrical performance. The expanded (VEL-Tek) core can be manufactured with a Velocity of Propagation (VoP) ranging from 78% to 90% under optimal construction. This higher VoP enhances phase stability, as it contains less PTFE per unit volume compared to low-loss or fully sintered cores.

VEL-Tek cores serve as advanced alternatives to PTFE tape-wrapped cores. One of their primary advantages is the elimination of seams — a known weakness of tape wrapping that can cause inconsistencies or mechanical failures. In contrast, the VEL-Tek design offers a seamless, mechanically stronger structure that maintains integrity under demanding conditions. While PTFE tape wrap may exhibit slightly lower loss due to its unsintered nature and lack of a tie layer, VEL-Tek provides superior durability, higher VoP, and more reliable long-term performance.

Applications include high-frequency and microwave systems for military, aerospace, communications, and testing. VEL-Tek is often chosen for next-generation microwave cable projects that demand exceptional performance under challenging conditions. For any high-end microwave coaxial cable requirement, Micro-Tek’s VEL-Tek provides a dependable, high-performance core solution.

VEL-Tek is available in a wide range of conductor and dielectric sizes, suitable for the most demanding high-frequency and microwave environments. Custom configurations and conductor options are available upon request.

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Your Coaxial Cable’s Secret Weapon Starts with Us

Looking for high-performance solutions for your microwave cable or microwave coaxial cable applications? Our advanced PTFE dielectric cores deliver the reliability, precision, and performance demanded by today’s critical industries. Whether you’re building for aerospace, military, or communications, our team is ready to support your next innovation. Contact us today to discuss your requirements or request a custom quote.