What is fluororubber (FKM)?
Fluorinated rubber (FKM, fluorine rubber material) is a high-performance elastomer known for its extreme chemical resistance and outstanding temperature resistance. It is characterised by Copolymerisation of vinylidene fluoride with other fluoropolymers and has an exceptionally dense and stable molecular structure due to its high fluorine content. This gives FKM properties that predestine it for particularly demanding applications in the chemical, automotive and aviation industries.
Properties of fluororubber (FKM)
- Excellent chemical resistance to Oils, fuels, solvents, acids and many aggressive chemicals
- Limited resistance to hot water and water vapour or polar solvents
- Very high temperature resistance of approx. -30 °C until +220 °C
- Very low gas permeability, ideal for vacuum and high-pressure applications
- Excellent Ageing- and ozone resistance
- High dimensional stability and low compression set for long-term sealing effect
- Flame retardant and self-extinguishing
- Poor low-temperature flexibility, therefore only limited use in cold areas
- Potential sustainability problems (belonging to the PFAS group, the per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances)
Application areas & material combinations of fluororubber (FKM)
FKM is preferably used in Seals, O-rings, Sealing lips, Valves, membranes and various Rubber-metal composite parts used when high temperatures and aggressive media occur. Typical applications are Radical shaft seals in engines and gearboxes, seals in chemical plants, aerospace components and high-vacuum systems.