Fluorosilicone rubber combines the beneficial characteristics of silicone with greater chemical resistance, making the specialized elastomer ideal for harsh aerospace applications. Fluorosilicone seals and O-rings can withstand extreme temperatures, corrosive substances like oils and fuels, and other challenging conditions. Learn more about the role of fluorosilicone materials in aerospace applications.
Fluorosilicone in Aerospace Applications
Materials in aerospace parts and components often face rough environmental conditions, such as rapid and extreme changes in temperature, chemical exposure, and intense mechanical stress. Fluorosilicone rubber can tolerate these elements, so it’s a popular choice for aerospace O-rings, seals, gaskets, and other components. The material’s unique chemical composition is capable of resisting acids, solvents, fuels, and other corrosive chemicals, maximizing the durability and longevity of critical parts.
Properties of Fluorosilicone Rubber
Fluorosilicone rubber offers the following key properties that make it ideal for aerospace applications:
- Chemical resistance. This material features a polymer chain containing trifluoropropyl groups that enable it to resist many types of chemicals, including oils, non-polar solvents, alkaline chemicals, acids, and fuels. Thus, fluorosilicone is considerably more chemically resistant than conventional silicone rubber.
- Temperature stability. Another advantage of fluorosilicone rubber is its temperature resistance capabilities, as it can normally withstand temperatures ranging from around -75°F to 400°F (-60°C to 204°C). Its temperature stability is vital for aerospace applications.
- Environmental durability. Fluorosilicone can also resist many environmental conditions, including weathering, ozone, and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It can maintain robust performance without shrinking or swelling during operation in these challenging environments.
Fluorosilicone Seals and Gaskets for Aerospace
Fluorosilicone seals, O-rings, and gaskets can resist exposure to corrosive chemicals and extremely high or low temperatures. This material maintains sealing integrity and protects surrounding parts and equipment from damage. Fluorosilicone seals make aerospace systems safer and more reliable under harsh operating environments.
Fluorosilicone vs. Silicone Rubber for Aerospace
Fluorosilicone and silicone rubber offer high-temperature resistance and other advantages that make these materials popular for demanding applications. Fluorosilicone demonstrates higher heat resistance, withstanding up to 400°F (204°C) before breaking down. By comparison, silicone can withstand heat up to 300°F (149°C) before degrading.
Fluorosilicone also stands out for its superior chemical resistance, which is critical for aerospace environments. Enhanced chemical resistance means that fluorosilicone often costs more than traditional silicone rubber materials.
In addition, fluorosilicone exhibits better tensile strength and tear resistance, so it is well-suited for high-wear and high-stress applications. On the other hand, silicone demonstrates higher elongation and flexibility. However, due to its greater chemical, heat, and deformation resistance, fluorosilicone lasts longer and is preferred for harsh aerospace sealing applications.
High-Quality Aerospace Fluorosilicone Solutions by RD Rubber
The unique advantages of fluorosilicone rubber make it one of the best options for use in aerospace O-rings and other sealing components. This material can hold up for many years in some of the harshest environments that aerospace applications face, supporting the ongoing safety and dependability of critical equipment. Advancements in aerospace technology continue to make fluorosilicone rubber essential for demanding applications.
RD Rubber is a leading manufacturer of high-performance rubber components for demanding industries, such as aerospace, automotive, defense, and medical technology. We deliver custom-engineered fluorosilicone seals to meet the evolving demands of the aerospace industry. Request a quote from us today to discuss your application and your ideal fluorosilicone rubber solution.