On Mon, 31 May 2004 02:45:22 GMT, (Tom)
wrote:

On Sat, 29 May 2004 12:09:24 -0700, "larsen-tools"
wrote:

I read somewhere that it's not a good idea to uses Teflon tape on threaded
joints in a hydraulic system.
Is that correct and if so, why?
It is best not to use Teflon tape as it can shred and clog parts of
your system - a problem you will not encounter with Pipe Sealer with
Teflon. Another problem I recall was in a plant here in Houston years
ago when Teflon tape was used in fittings on a fuel loading hose.
Apparently, the tape was thick enough to act as an insulator and
allowed static electricity to build rather than discharge to ground.
When the operator touched the nozzle to the lip of the filler a spark
ignited the gasoline.

Definitely a no-no on fuel dipensing equipment (although you see it
all the time) or natural gas/propane systems, it is also dangerous in
fuel systems and hydraulics. It CAN be applied in a safe manner, but
it is extremely difficult to know if it is actually safe after it is
installed, as far as shredding is concerned, and is virtually never
checked as far as ground continuity.