FKM (Fluoro Carbon Rubber/FPM/Fluoro Rubber)

Summary of Performance, Application, and Advantages of FKM (Fluorocarbon Rubber): This article will provide a detailed introduction to the basic characteristics, chemical structure, applicable temperature range, and its widespread application in different industrial fields of FKM (Fluorocarbon Rubber). Meanwhile, we will also explore the advantages of FKM compared to other synthetic rubbers such as NBR (nitrile rubber) and EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber). Finally, we will summarize the importance of FKM in seal design and manufacturing. FKM, also known as fluorocarbon rubber or fluorosiloxane rubber, is a high-performance synthetic rubber material known for its excellent high temperature resistance, oil resistance, and chemical corrosion resistance. Its molecular structure contains bonds between fluorine and carbon atoms, which makes it exhibit excellent stability in extreme environments. FKM typically has the following characteristics: high temperature resistance: FKM can maintain its physical and mechanical properties within the temperature range of -20 ° C to+248 ° C (-4 ° F to+480 ° F), and can be exposed to higher temperatures for a short period of time. Oil resistance: FKM has strong corrosion resistance to most petroleum based lubricants and fuels, including mineral oil, synthetic engine oil, diesel, and gasoline. Chemical resistance: Due to the presence of fluorine, FKM can resist the influence of many strong acids, bases, and other chemicals. Physical and mechanical properties: FKM has good tensile strength, tear strength, and elastic recovery ability, suitable for applications that require repeated compression and rebound. Electrical insulation performance: FKM provides excellent electrical insulation performance at a wide range of frequencies and high voltages. Processing performance: FKM can be processed through various methods, including extrusion molding, injection molding, and compression molding. Environmental compliance: Compliant with RoHS standards, free from harmful substances such as lead, cadmium, mercury, etc. The main application areas of FKM include automotive, aerospace, chemical, petroleum, and natural gas industries. In the automotive industry, FKM is used to manufacture various seals for fuel systems, turbochargers, transmissions, and power steering systems; In the aerospace field, it is commonly used for sealing engine components and hydraulic systems. In addition, FKM is also used in sterile environments in the food and pharmaceutical industries because it can withstand steam and chemicals used for disinfection. Compared with traditional synthetic rubber, such as NBR (nitrile rubber) and EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber), FKM performs better in some key performance indicators. For example, although NBR also has some oil resistance, its heat resistance and chemical resistance are not as good as FKM; EPDM, on the other hand, excels in ozone and weather resistance, but its adaptability to high-temperature environments is not as good as FKM. Therefore, the choice of rubber material depends on specific application requirements and environmental conditions. FKM, as a representative of fluorocarbon rubber, has become one of the indispensable materials in many industrial fields due to its unique chemical structure and performance characteristics. Its combination of high temperature resistance, oil resistance, and chemical corrosion resistance makes it perform well under harsh working conditions, thereby improving the reliability and service life of the equipment. With the development of technology and the continuous improvement of material requirements, FKM will continue to play an important role, especially in industries that have extremely high requirements for material properties.