Perfluorocarbon Rubber
Perfluorocarbon rubber, FFKM, is one of the most expensive synthetic rubber compounds produced. FFKM elastomer’s excellent performance capabilities offset the high cost and include extreme reliability in static or dynamic applications, low off-gassing levels, and one of the highest operating temperature ranges currently available.
REDCO is ready to produce custom perfluorocarbon rubber products manufactured to your specifications. All our processes and services are carried out in-house at our USA facility to ensure you only receive the best American-made rubber products with every order. Contact us or call 775-882-3100 to speak to a representative about your perfluorocarbon rubber part production.
Properties of FFKM Elastomers
FFKM rubber is an elastomeric form of polytetrafluoroethylene (PFTE) and features a fully fluorinated backbone. The exact fluorine content will vary depending on your selected FFKM compound. One of the most chemically resistant elastomers available on the market, perfluorocarbon rubber is a popular choice for sectors requiring a reliable elastomer.
Perfluorocarbon FFKM Characteristics
FFKM features many high-performance characteristics that make it suitable for many applications. Some characteristics include:
- Specific Gravity: 1.85
- Tensile Strength, PSI—Reinforced: 2500
- Practical Shore A Hardness Range: 60-95
The Benefits of Perfluorocarbon Elastomer
The mechanical properties of FFKM elastomers are very similar to fluorocarbon rubber, but it exhibits even greater resistance to aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons, esters, ethers, keytones, oils, lubricants, and most acids. Other benefits and advantages of using FFKM rubber for your production include:
- Excellent atmosphere aging resistance
- Excellent oxidation resistance
- Excellent heat resistance
- Excellent flame resistance
- Excellent diluted and concentrated acid resistance
- Good to excellent permeability
- Good tear and abrasion resistance
- Good moisture resistance
- Good dielectric properties
- Fair to excellent compression set
- Fair heat resilience
Consult our Properties of Rubber Chart to learn how perfluorocarbon elastomer can benefit your production.
Limitations of FFKM Rubber
The most prominent disadvantage of perfluorocarbon rubber is the high price of the material, making it difficult to access for budget-conscious productions. Additionally, FFKM rubber does not feature a high level of resilience and room temperature and can become brittle at cold temperatures.
If FFKM rubber is not your best solution, we work with a variety of other rubber materials, including producing custom rubber and elastomer compounds at our in-house developmental laboratory.
Who Uses Perfluorocarbon Rubber?
Due to its many advantages and despite the elevated cost, perfluorocarbon elastomer is used widely throughout industries that operate in rugged conditions. It is used in demanding applications for chemical processing, oil production, and in the aerospace and aircraft industries. Common parts produced from FFKM rubber include:
- Poppets
- Housings
- Custom gaskets and seals
- Die cut parts
- And much, much more!
Choose REDCO for Precision Perfluorocarbon Elastomer Productions
Why work with REDCO? Since 1948, we have completed all testing, development, and manufacturing at our USA facility. Our quality control protocols are second to none, and we integrate your quality processes into our strategies as we work to provide uncompromising products with every service. Our experienced and friendly staff is here to support you from initial quote through final delivery.
Contact us or request a quote when you’re ready to get started with REDCO. We’ll discuss your goals, determine if perfluorocarbon rubber is your best elastomer choice, and begin production as soon as possible.
