CAS: 14765-30-1
FKM, or Fluorocarbon rubber, is a family of high-performance synthetic rubbers known for their exceptional resistance to high temperatures, oils, fuels, and a wide range of chemicals. These fluoroelastomers are characterized by their excellent thermal stability, chemical inertness, and low compression set. They maintain their mechanical properties in harsh environments where other elastomers would degrade. FKM materials vary in composition, typically being copolymers of vinylidene fluoride (VDF) and hexafluoropropylene (HFP), or terpolymers adding tetrafluoroethylene (TFE), which influences their specific performance characteristics.
FKM is primarily used in critical sealing applications, gaskets, O-rings, and molded parts where resistance to extreme temperatures, aggressive fuels, oils, and chemicals is paramount. Key uses include seals for fuel systems, engine components, hydraulic systems, and chemical processing equipment. Its robust nature makes it indispensable in industries demanding high reliability and longevity of components under severe operating conditions.
Automotive industry (fuel injector O-rings, shaft seals, fuel hoses, manifold gaskets), Aerospace (fuel tank seals, firewall seals, hydraulic seals, jet engine components), Chemical processing (pump seals, valve seats, heat exchanger gaskets, expansion joints), Oil and Gas exploration (downhole tool seals, blow-out preventer seals), Industrial equipment (hydraulic seals, diaphragms, rollers), and occasionally in specialty applications within the pharmaceutical and food processing sectors (with specific grades).
In its cured, finished form, FKM is generally considered safe. However, direct contact with *uncured* FKM materials or thermal decomposition products (e.g., from overheating or burning above 300°C) can be hazardous. Overheating FKM can release highly corrosive and toxic gases, including hydrogen fluoride (HF) and other fluorinated compounds, which can cause severe burns upon skin contact and respiratory irritation if inhaled. Proper ventilation is required during processing, and appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, eye protection) should always be used. If contact with overheated FKM or its residues occurs, medical attention is immediately advised, often requiring calcium gluconate treatment for skin exposure. Always consult the specific product's Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS/SDS).
Fluorocarbon rubberFluoroelastomerFPM (ISO designation)Viton (brand name by Chemours)Fluorel (brand name by 3M)Technoflon (brand name by Solvay)Dai-El (brand name by Daikin)FKM rubberFresctone (FKM is a general class'Fresctone' likely a brand or product name for a specific FKM formulation).
Search suppliers instantly using CAS or chemical name
Search Suppliers →