In a message dated 98-06-12 23:57:19 EDT, ran@netgate.net writes: << Anyone know why the carbon? In some other plastics, it might make sense for lubrication. But in Teflon it seems like it's gilding the lily. >> More than likely the carbon is mixed into the Teflon to make it electrically conductive. Then it will carry off any static electricity to a connected ground. Cheers, Bill Fries