FKM seals, also known as fluorocarbon seals are industrial seals made of fluorocarbon elastomer material . Commonly, these seals are used in aviation and aerospace, food and pharmaceutical, semiconductor manufacturing applications, etc. Due to properties like high-temperature sustainability, chemical resistance, mechanical strength, etc these types of seals are highly preferred in the aforementioned industries. However, the fluorocarbon elastomers are responsible for the excellence of the FKM seals. Therefore, before utilizing these seals in industrial applications, one must be well-versed with the material, fluorocarbon rubber, and its properties. This post introduces fluorocarbon rubber, its material properties, and the advantages of FKM seals.
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An Overview of FKM (Fluorocarbon Rubber)
FKM is an elastomer from the family of fluorocarbon elastomers. It was designated by ASTM International under the standard D. It was initially introduced by DuPont under the name of Viton®, however, now it is being manufactured by several manufacturers like Daikin Chemical, HaloPolymer, and many more. It is an equivalent material of FPM as both the materials feature the same base material that is a fluorocarbon rubber.
These highly fluorinated carbon-based synthetic rubber polymers were first introduced in the s due to the demand for high temperature sustaining seals, O-rings, and gaskets for the aerospace industry.
FKM polymer is made from vinylidene monomers with a high concentration of fluorine and carbon-based elastomers. The crosslinking mechanism between the monomers, fluorine molecules, and carbon make this material highly suitable for applications exposed to chemicals and high temperature.
Owing to the excellent properties, FKM fluorocarbon elastomers are being utilized for manufacturing seals, O-rings, gaskets, etc for industries like automobile, aeronautical, petroleum, etc.
The following are the two grades of FKM fluorocarbon rubber.
Also, based on chemical composition, there are four fundamental types of FKM available, listed as follows.
There are several properties of this fluorocarbon rubber that makes it suitable for complex industrial applications. Let us discuss the same.
Properties of Fluorocarbon Elastomers
The following are the significant properties of FKM elastomers that make this material a great choice for applications exposed to high temperatures and chemicals.The following are the significant properties of FKM elastomers that make this material a great choice for applications exposed to high temperatures and chemicals.
Learn About Few Specific Properties of FKM Seals
Owing to the above-mentioned properties of the material, the FKM seals are widely preferred in several industrial applications. The following are the benefits of using these seals instead of other types of seals like metal, or cartridge seals.
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In order to reap the mentioned benefits of these seals in industrial applications, it is essential to invest in quality seals. Only experienced manufacturers like SSP Seals can ensure the authentic quality, and performance of FKM seals in compliance with ISO, ASTM, and DIN standards. The company utilizes FDA approved FKM to manufacture seals for several industries.
FKM and EPDM are common &#;O&#; ring materials that offer excellent thermal and oxidation resistance. However, there are some significant differences between these two polymer materials, which, depending on your application, can make or break your choice of &#;O&#; ring material. Here, TRP Polymer Solutions talks us through the various advantages and disadvantages of FKM and EPDM.
FKM: Fluoroelastomers (FKM) are characterised by their strong carbon-fluorine bonds, which give them the advantage of exceptional chemical, thermal and oxidation resistant properties. FKM also offers a wide operational temperature range of -45 °C to +204 °C, has good mechanical properties, and its density gives a high-quality feel.
EPDM: EPDM offers excellent resistance to ozone, sunlight and weathering. Few rubbers can withstand extremely cold temperatures like EPDM. With an operating temperature as low as -50 °C (with highs of +150 °C), EPDM is a solid choice in sub-zero temperatures. EPDM compresses well and is highly resistant to tears, abrasion and steam.
FKM: FKM is known to swell in fluorinated solvents and cannot be used with molten or gaseous alkali metals. FKM is a premium product, due to its chemical makeup. So it does come with a higher price tag than other non-fluorinated hydrocarbons and low temperature grades can be especially costly.
EPDM: Although EPDM offers good resistance to dilute acids, ketones and alkalis, it does not fare so well fuels, oils and non-polar solvents. It certainly wouldn&#;t be a suitable choice for petro-chemical applications.
FKM: FKM is suitable for explosive decompression, CIP, SIP and FDA applications. It is ideal for the handling and transportation of chemicals and fuels, as well as high temperature and explosive environments, such as in the oil and gas, automotive and aerospace industries.
EPDM: EPDM&#;s all-round durability has seen it employed across a wide range of applications, including &#;O&#; rings, automotive cooling systems, and as insulation in freezer room seals.
FKM: If your application demands the highest standards of chemical, thermal and oxidation resistance &#; and budget is not your primary concern &#; FKM is a premium product that will more than repay your investment.
EPDM: For a low-cost sealing material that performs well in outdoor applications, EPDM is a good choice. This durable synthetic rubber won&#;t degrade under UV conditions and will tolerate prolonged contact with steam and some acids.
Choosing the wrong &#;O&#; ring material can lead to rapid failure, which is why you should always seek expert advice. TRP Polymer&#;s technical experts have many years of experience developing high-performance sealing materials and can help you to source the right &#;O&#; ring material for your application.
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