FKM O-rings

O-rings

Fluorocarbon rubber​, commonly abbreviated as FKM, is a high-performance fluoroelastomer and one of the most reliable materials used in sealing applications today. Viton® is the well-known brand name of FKM and is manufactured by Chemours. Known for its excellent resistance to extreme temperatures, chemicals, and environmental conditions, FKM offers long-lasting performance in harsh environments while maintaining durability across a broad range of industries.

FKM is a synthetic rubber compound made from fluorinated hydrocarbons. Its unique chemical structure provides outstanding resistance to oils, fuels, lubricants, and solvents. The material withstands high temperatures, making it ideal for high-heat applications while also maintaining flexibility in lower temperatures. Additionally, FKM​ has superior resistance to ozone, UV light, and weathering.

FKM​ O-rings can be manufactured using various methods, including injection molding, compression molding, or extrusion. Although the classic round O-ring is the most common form, FKM​ O-rings can be customized into other cross-sectional shapes depending on the specific application.

Primarily used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and chemical processing, FKM​ O-rings offer excellent durability in extreme environments. For optimal performance, FKM​ O-rings should be lubricated based on the application, typically using a compatible oil, fuel, or chemical.

Features and Specifications

Temperature Range

Standard FKM O-ring temperature ranges are from -15ºF to 400ºF. However, different formulations can extend the temperature range to accommodate more extreme conditions. These temperature ranges are based on dry air, but the actual performance will depend on the specific end-use application and environment.

Durometer

Standard durometer (hardness) for FKM O-rings can range from 55 Shore A to 95 Shore A, with the most common durometer being around 75 Shore A. This flexibility allows FKM to be tailored to meet specific sealing requirements, balancing hardness and elasticity.

Color

FKM O-rings are typically black or brown but can be produced in a variety of colors to meet application-specific needs.

Benefits of FKM O-rings

FKM O-rings offer superior resistance to oils, fuels, and a wide range of chemicals, making them ideal for demanding sealing applications in aerospace, automotive, and chemical processing industries. Known for their exceptional durability, they provide reliable performance across a broad temperature range, ensuring long-lasting seals in both high-heat and low-temperature conditions. FKM O-rings are highly versatile and provide an excellent balance of chemical resistance, heat tolerance, and mechanical strength, making them a preferred choice for challenging environments. They offer numerous advantageous mechanical properties, including:

  • Chemical resistance
  • Flexibility
  • Low compression set
  • Low electrical conductivity
  • Resistance to aging and sunlight
  • Temperature resistance
  • Tensile strength
  • Weather and ozone resistance

Additionally, FKM O-rings are resistant to:

  • Acids
  • Corrosion
  • Flames
  • Grease 
  • Ketones
  • Mold
  • Oxidation
  • Silicone oils
  • Steam
  • Sunlight 
  • Water
  • Weather

Common Uses and Applications of FKm O-rings

As one of the most widely used seals in the industry, FKM O-rings are suitable for a variety of static and dynamic applications, are easy to manufacture even for specialized needs, and offer high performance in demanding environments. FKM O-rings are commonly used in aerospace, automotive, and chemical processing applications, particularly in systems that require resistance to high temperatures, aggressive chemicals, and fuels. These O-rings are frequently found in fuel systems, hydraulic equipment, and industrial machinery. Additional industries that rely on FKM O-rings include:

The wyatt seal advantage

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