Fluoroelastomer Seals

The Workhorse of Extreme Environments

For design engineers and purchasing managers seeking the pinnacle of sealing performance, fluoroelastomers present a compelling solution. These high-performance seals, often known by the brand name Viton®, excel in challenging applications where standard elastomers fall short.

Stainless steel washers bonded to ETP-600S (Viton Extreme)
Stainless steel washers bonded to ETP-600S (Viton Extreme) for arctic aircraft refueling station

What are Fluoroelastomer Seals?

Fluoroelastomers are synthetic rubbers distinguished by their high fluorine content (up to 70%). This unique chemical structure imbues them with exceptional properties ideal for demanding environments:

  • Superior Chemical Resistance: Fluoroelastomers exhibit unparalleled resistance to a wide range of aggressive chemicals, including strong acids, alkalis, fuels, oils, and solvents.
  • Outstanding Temperature Resilience: They maintain their integrity and functionality across a broad temperature range, often exceeding 200°C (400°F).
  • Exceptional Thermal Stability: Fluoroelastomers resist degradation and hardening under sustained high temperatures.
  • Low Permeability: Their tight molecular structure minimises gas and liquid permeation, crucial for maintaining system integrity.

Advantages of Fluoroelastomer Seals

  • Enhanced reliability and safety: By preventing leaks and failures, they safeguard processes and personnel in critical applications.
  • Reduced maintenance costs: Their extended lifespan minimises downtime and maintenance requirements.
  • Broad application versatility: They tackle diverse challenges across various industries.
  • Improved energy efficiency: Low friction coefficients contribute to efficient operation.

Disadvantages of Fluoroelastomer Seals

  • Higher cost compared to standard elastomers: The advanced material and processing techniques come at a price.
  • Limited resistance to certain chemicals: While versatile, they may not withstand highly concentrated oxidising agents or certain fluorinated fluids.
  • Susceptibility to tear under high pressure: Careful design and selection are crucial for high-pressure applications.

Fluoroelastomer Seal Applications

  • Aerospace: Sealing fuel and hydraulic systems, withstanding extreme temperatures and pressures.
  • Energy: Reliable seals for oil and gas exploration, refining, and processing equipment.
  • Food & Beverage: Maintaining hygiene and product integrity in demanding processing environments.
  • Instrumentation & Electronics: Ensuring precision and protecting sensitive components from harsh industrial environments.
  • Medical: Parts requiring fluid resistance, low permeability and temperature resilience for critical medical devices and pharmaceuticals.
  • Motorsport: High-performance seals for engines, transmissions, and hydraulic systems.
  • Specialist Automotive: Gaskets and seals for high-performance engines and demanding automotive applications.
  • Subsea, Oil & Gas: Withstanding the corrosive and high-pressure conditions of deep-sea environments.

Choosing the Right Fluoroelastomer Seal

Selecting the optimal fluoroelastomer seal requires careful consideration of several factors:

  • Specific application requirements: Temperature, pressure, chemical exposure, and dynamics of the application.
  • Desired properties: Prioritise specific advantages like chemical resistance, abrasion resistance, or low permeability.
  • Cost considerations: Balance performance with budget constraints.
  • Compatibility with other materials: Ensure compatibility with surrounding components and fluids.

Different Fluoroelastomer Compounds

Various fluoroelastomer formulations cater to specific requirements. Common types include:

  • FKM A: General-purpose seals for good chemical and oil resistance.
  • FKM B: Enhanced resistance to strong acids and alkalis.
  • FKM F: Optimised for high-temperature resistance.
  • FKM G: Food-grade seals complying with FDA regulations.

Beyond the Seal

DP Seals offers comprehensive support beyond the product itself. Our team of technical experts assists with:

  • Material selection and application analysis.
  • Custom seal design and manufacturing.
  • Testing and validation services.
  • On-site technical support.

Investing in fluoroelastomer seals represents a commitment to superior performance and long-term reliability in demanding applications. DP Seals stands as your trusted partner, providing the expertise and technology to navigate the world of fluoroelastomer solutions.

Contact us today to discuss your specific sealing challenges and discover how DP Seals can help you achieve outstanding results.

Why Choose Custom Versus Standard Fluoroelastomer Seals, Gaskets or Mouldings?

DP Seals manufacture custom parts only. If you are currently using standard parts, but have some level of dissatisfaction with results, read our article with nine great reasons to choose custom over standard solutions.

Fluoroelastomer Materials Expertise

The information provided here is only a guide to Fluoroelastomer’s primary characteristics and uses. As outlined above, we are experts in understanding the relationship between material and product performance and can blend exactly the right material for your requirements.

We also maintain a large quantity and variety of quality raw materials in stock, enabling us to offer fast turnaround to tight deadlines.

Find Out More About Our Most Commonly Used Fluoroelastomer Materials

Handy Product Development Resources

Below you’ll find many free resources to help you think about material selection but we are always on hand to discuss your requirements and provide expert advice.

Customer Testimonials

We were particularly impressed with DP Seals’ responsiveness, extensive materials knowledge, engineering expertise, and their competitive pricing. They also identified opportunities to simplify our custom moulding, making it easier to manufacture without compromising performance.  Stuart Robertson, Limpet Technology

See other customer testimonials

Find Out More About Fluoroelastomer Components

  • Speak to our Material Technologists on +44 (0)1202 674671