FKM Rubber Performance
Fluoroelastomers or fluorocarbons (FKM), also known as Viton, are highly fluorinated polymers suitable for continuous use at elevated temperatures.
Fluoroelastomer has an excellent heat resistance and flame retardancy and has excellent resistance to aging, ozone, antioxidant, oil, and a variety of chemical substances. They also have low gas permeability and a low compression set. However, they usually have only limited low-temperature capabilities. Although there are some special lower temperature grades to choose from. They also have limited resistance to steam, hot water, and (very) polar fluids (such as strong organic acids (such as formic acid), methanol, ketones, ammonia, and certain amines), while the new peroxide-cured grades are chemically resistant. Receptivity has improved. In addition, they are expensive, so they are only used when the components must withstand a particularly harsh environment.
FKM Rubber Applications
Fluoroelastomer compounds are widely used in the chemical, automotive, aerospace, and energy industry. They are used for hoses, diaphragms, accumulator bladders, gaskets, O-rings, and seals, all operating in especially harsh environments.
The typical service temperature of FKMs is between -20°C (-5°F) and +230°C (+445°F). They can, however, withstand temperatures up to 300°C for a short period of time. However, at high service temperatures, FKMs are weak so that the design must prevent any high loads.
FKM Rubber Advantages
- Excellent temperature resistance
- High chemical stability
- Good weather, aging, and oxygen stability
- Excellent resistance in mineral oils and fats
- Low gas permeability
- Very good resistance in non-polar media
- Temperature range from –40 °C to +225 °C
FKM materials are commonly used to manufacture o-rings, seals, and gaskets for a variety of high-performance applications in the automotive, aerospace, energy, semiconductor, and industrial industries.
FKM rubber, also known as fluorocarbon rubber, is a highly durable synthetic elastomer. It is widely used in various industries due to its excellent resistance to temperature extremes, chemicals, and fuels. FKM rubber can be customized to meet specific requirements, making it a preferred choice for many applications. Manufacturers in specialized factories produce FKM rubber, which is then supplied to different industries by suppliers.