Rubber Material Special material Fluoroelastomer
FKM - Fluoro Rubber
Fluoroelastomers, also known as FKM or Viton (fluorocarbon), are highly fluorinated synthetic polymers. They are manufactured by polymerizing vinylidene fluoride (VDF) with other fluorinated monomers, which gives the material its unique properties.
Fluoroelastomers have excellent heat and flame resistance and outstanding resistance to aging, ozone, oxidizing agents, oils and many chemicals. They also have low gas permeability and low compression set, with limited resistance to steam, hot water and (highly) polar fluids such as strong organic acids (e.g., formic acid), methanol and ammonia. Some newer peroxide-cured grades have slightly improved chemical resistance.
FKM's properties make it a good material for applications that must withstand particularly harsh environments, such as seals and gaskets in engines, chemical plants and industrial processes. Its high temperature resistance, up to 200-250°C, makes it suitable for use in high-performance engines and exhaust systems.
In addition to these properties, fluororubber also has low gas permeability and, in some variants, good fire resistance. Its versatility makes it a common material choice for high-performance applications in, among others, the automotive industry, aerospace engineering and medical equipment.
Characteristics
FKM - Fluoro Rubber
Fluorogum has excellent resistance to external environmental factors (oxidation, weather and ozone, fire, chemicals).
At the same time, it can be used at temperatures of up to 200°C and even higher for shorter periods of time.
- Maximum temperature: 200°C
- Minimum temperature: -15°C
- Tear strength: 1-2
- Compression set at -30 to +70°C: 2-3
- Compression set at +70 to +150°C: 5
- Abrasion resistance: 3
- Oil and gasoline resistance: 5
- Weather and ozone resistance: 5
- Heat aging: 5
- Adhesion to metal: 2
- Adhesion to textiles: 2
Rating scale for table
5 - Excellent / 4 - Very good / 3 - Good / 2 - Fair / 1 - Poor
Products in FKM - Fluoroelastomer
Here are some typical examples of products made from fluoroelastomer (FKM):
Seals and gaskets: Fluororubber is used for manufacturing seals and gaskets for industries where chemicals, high temperatures, and extreme conditions occur. It is used in the oil and gas sector, chemical industry and automotive industry to create reliable and long-lasting seals that resist corrosion, chemicals and thermal impact.
O-rings: O-rings are also manufactured from FKM due to its excellent chemical and temperature resistance. O-rings are used in many applications requiring sealing, such as in valves, pumps, piping systems, and engine components.
Membrane: Fluororubber is used to manufacture membranes that need to withstand chemicals, oils, and high temperatures. It is used in manufacturing, the oil and gas sector and laboratories to protect and insulate various components and materials.
Gloves and protective equipment: FKM is used in the manufacturing of chemical-resistant gloves and protective equipment. Its ability to withstand chemicals and high temperatures makes it a popular material for achieving high safety and good protection.