Application of PTFE composites as pad facing allows for a significant improvement in tilt pad thrust bearing performance under severe operating conditions. Many applications of PTFE lined thrust bearings are known, primarily in water turbines in Russia and China, but recently a lot of interest in this kind of pad facing is observed in other countries, as well. This paper is a short overview of the peculiarities in bearing performance caused by some specific properties of PTFE composites. Known techniques for bonding PTFE composites to steel backing are first discussed. The PTFE bonding method utilized in Russia results in an intentionally increased resilience of the bearing surface. The effect of compliant nature of the PTFE on oil film geometry is considered. Another important aspect of using PTFE facing is the thermal insulation of the pad, minimizing its thermal distortions. The effect of minimized thermal distortions, being an advantage for large thrust bearing of water turbines, but, interestingly, not in all applications, is examined. Tribological (friction and wear) aspects of using PTFE layer are also discussed. Additional advantages of using PTFE as a substitute for babbitt are addressed as well. Finally, techniques for monitoring conditions in the PTFE bearings are described.