FKM – High-Performance Elastomer for Demanding Applications
What is fluororubber (FKM)?
Fluoroelastomer (FKM) is a high-performance elastomer renowned for its extreme chemical resistance and excellent temperature stability. It is produced through the copolymerisation of vinylidene fluoride with other fluoropolymers and possesses an exceptionally dense and stable molecular structure due to its high fluorine content. This endows FKM with properties that make it ideal for particularly demanding applications in the chemical, automotive, and aerospace industries, whether in the form of precise Molded Rubber as seals and O-rings or as a material for rubber composite parts (e.g. Metal, Plastic, Fabric), where the highest chemical and thermal resistance is required.
Fluorocarbon rubber (FKM) has excellent resistance to high temperatures, chemicals, oils, and fuels. It also exhibits good mechanical properties, such as tensile strength and elongation.
- 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)
What are the application areas and material combinations for fluoroelastomers (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.
