Fluoroelastomers, also referred to as FKM, are fluorocarbon-based polymers known for delivering robust performance in extreme environments. Their unique structure, characterized by strong carbon-fluorine bonds, results in remarkable stability and resistance to chemicals and elevated temperatures.
RD Rubber Technology Corporation provides custom-molded fluoroelastomers that can meet the unique challenges of critical to function products in some of the most demanding applications.
Key Features of Fluoroelastomers
Custom-molded fluoroelastomers from RD Rubber offer a range of distinctive properties, including:
- Chemical resistance. Exhibit excellent resistance to a broad spectrum of industrial fuels, oils, acids, and chemicals. A high fluorine content enhances the inertness and stability of fluoroelastomers, contributing to their exceptional resistance capabilities.
- Environmental durability. Highly resistant to weathering, ozone, and ultraviolet (UV) light, ensuring unsurpassed performance and longevity in demanding aerospace and outdoor applications.
- Low compression set. Possesses superior compression set resistance, enabling the material to retain its elastic properties while maintaining an effective seal when enduring prolonged compressive stress.
- Mechanical strength. Provide exceptional tensile strength, flexibility, and abrasion resistance. These properties are crucial for components subjected to mechanical and dynamic stresses.
High-Temperature Resistance of Fluoroelastomers
Fluoroelastomers are also known for their exceptional resistance to high temperatures, which offers the following benefits:
Excellent Thermal Stability
Our fluoroelastomers from RD Rubber maintain their sealing effectiveness and mechanical properties when exposed to a vast range of temperatures (typically from -20 ºF (-29 ºC) to 400 ºF (204 ºC), with specialized grades capable of withstanding much higher temperatures. This unsurpassed thermal stability is vital for industrial processing equipment and engine components that demand reliable performance in harsh operating conditions.
Retention of Mechanical Properties
Even when exposed to high temperatures for long periods, fluoroelastomers can retain their elasticity and mechanical strength. This is vital to ensure consistent reliability and performance in the anticipated operating conditions.
Common Applications
It is crucial for demanding sectors such as aerospace, defense, space, and chemical processing to have access to durable materials that can reliably withstand extreme conditions. RD Rubber has vast experience providing fluoroelastomers to fulfill a range of applications, including:
- Aerospace and defense. O-rings, seals and gaskets, and other critical components manufactured using RD Rubber custom-molded fluoroelastomers can be used in aircraft engines, fuel systems, and hydraulic controls. These can endure exposure to extreme temperatures and aggressive chemicals, offering unsurpassed safety and reliability in critical aerospace applications.
- Space. Fluoroelastomers are essential for withstanding extreme temperatures, chemical exposure, and vacuum conditions. They are commonly used as seals and o-rings within propulsion systems, which can resist highly corrosive fuels, and maintain flexibility and sealing performance at very low temperatures. Fluoroelastomers also protect satellite components, including electronics and connectors, from radiation and thermal cycling.
- Chemical processing. When exposed to harsh chemicals such as solvents, hydrocarbons, and acids, custom-molded fluoroelastomers from RD Rubber can maintain their integrity. This makes them an optimal option for seals and gaskets used in chemical processing equipment.
- High-pressure systems. Robust mechanical properties of custom-molded fluoroelastomers from RD Rubber allow seals to withstand exposure to high pressures without compromising quality or deforming. The dependable material also helps to prevent leaks while ensuring system efficiency.
Contact RD Rubber Technology Corporation Today for Your Fluoroelastomer Sealing Needs
At RD Rubber Technology Corp., we offer precision molding of custom rubber components for a broad range of fluoroelastomer applications, including seals and O-rings, gaskets, diaphragms, and other critical to function components. Our ISO 9001:2015 and AS 9100:2016 quality management procedures allow us to evaluate, monitor, inspect, and analyze key processes to ensure our custom-molded fluoroelastomers components comply with regulatory and customer standards. Whether for aerospace, space, defense, medical device equipment, food and dairy processing, or other demanding industries, you can trust us to provide engineered quality custom molded rubber parts for your critical requirements.
Contact us today to learn how our custom-molded fluoroelastomers can meet your specific sealing needs.