Fluoroelastomer Specialists
What is FKM?
Fluroelastomer or FKM is a class of synthetic rubber designed for very high temperature operation. FKM provides extraordinary levels of resistance to chemicals, heat and oil, while providing useful service life above 200°C. FKM are not a single entity but a family of fluoropolymer rubbers. Fluoroelastomers or FKM (sometimes also referred to as FKM Viton) can be classified by their fluorine content, 66%, 68%, & 70% respectively. This means that FKM rubber having higher fluorine content, have increasing fluids resistance derived from increasing fluorine levels.
FKM Viton
Viton® is a registered trademark for fluroelastomer by DuPont Performance Elastomers L.L.C. This fluoroelastomer- FKM Viton- was introduced in 1957 to meet the requirements in the aerospace industry for a high-performance elastomer. The use of Viton® has spread quickly to many other industries, including the automotive, appliance and chemical industries, fluid power. Viton® is the most specified fluoroelastomer, well known for its excellent heat resistance, excellent resistance to aggressive fuels and chemicals. This popular FKM Viton fluroelastomer has worldwide ISO 9000 and ISO/TS 16949 registration.
Properties of Fluoroelastomers (FKM)
Fluoroelastomers have excellent resistance to chemical attack by oxidation, by acids and by fuels.
They also have good oil resistance.
They have limited resistance to steam, methanol, hot water, and other highly polar fluids.
The outstanding heat stability and excellent oil resistance are due to the high ratio of fluorine to hydrogen, the strength of the carbon-fluorine bond, and the absence of unsaturation.
The latest FKM polymers have a much broader fluids resistance profile than standard fluoroelastomers.
They are able to withstand strong bases and ketones as well as aromatic hydrocarbons, oils, acids, and steam.
Peroxide cured fluoroelastomers have inherently better water, steam, and acid resistance.
FKM Applications
FKM provides premium, long-term reliability even in harsh environments. A list of its applications is given below:
Aerospace: O-ring seals in fuels, lubricants, Valve stem seals, Fuel hoses, Fuel Injector O-rings, In tank and quick connect, Flue duct exp. Joints, Valve liners, Roll covers, Sheet stock/cut gaskets etc.
Automotive: Shaft seals, Check valve balls, Diaphragms, Military flare binders, Electrical connectors, Tire valve stem seals, Clips for jet engines, Lathe cut gaskets etc.
Industrial: Hydraulic o-ring seals and hydraulic systems, Manifold gaskets, Fuel tank bladders, Firewall seals, Engine lube siphon hose fuel system seals, Gaskets (valve & manifold) etc.
Read more: Fluoroelastomers (FKM) / FKM Viton
