Tag: elastomer seals

Viton® (FKM) O-Rings: Properties, Grades, and Industrial Applications

Summary What Are Viton® O-Rings? Viton® (FKM) o-rings are fluoropolymer elastomer seals engineered for extreme service conditions where standard rubber compounds fail. Developed in the late 1950s by DuPont, Viton® is a registered brand name for FKM — fluoroelastomer — a synthetic rubber defined by its high fluorine content. That fluorine content is the source […]

PFAS Chemicals and Their Impact on Elastomers

Summary Overview PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl) are synthetic chemicals widely used in various industrial and consumer products across multiple sectors. However, concerns about their effects on human health and the environment have sparked debates and regulatory actions worldwide. This article explores the uses of PFAS chemicals, regulatory efforts in the United States, Europe, and Canada, […]

Thermal Expansion and Seal Performance

Summary Introduction to Thermal Expansion Thermal expansion refers to how materials expand when exposed to an increase in temperature. When seals experience dimensional changes due to temperature fluctuations, issues such as leakage, extrusion, or failure may arise, making thermal expansion an essential consideration during material selection and seal design. Understanding how thermal expansion affects seals […]

Set, Stress Relaxation, and Rebound

Summary Introduction Elastomer seals are critical components in many industrial applications, providing the sealing force needed to prevent leaks and maintain pressure between mating surfaces. These seals must perform reliably under a range of operating conditions, including mechanical compression, temperature variation, and chemical exposure. Seal performance depends heavily on how elastomer materials respond to deformation […]

Viton® O-Rings: Extreme Durability

Summary Introduction Viton® (FKM) o-rings represent the pinnacle of sealing technology, where precision meets durability. Developed in the late 1950s by DuPont scientists, Viton® is a brand name for fluoropolymer elastomer known as FKM, which stands for Fluoroelastomer. A high fluorine content characterizes this synthetic rubber and is the source of its exceptional resistance to […]

ASTM D2000 and Material Selection

Summary Introduction Standards are the lifeblood of innovation, consistency, and quality. The ASTM D2000 is significant among these pivotal standards, especially in sealing compounds. In this post, we aim to define the significance and complexities of the ASTM D2000 standard, taking you through its origins, impact on material selection, broad scope, and profound implications for […]

A Complete Overview of Elastomers

Summary Overview Elastomers are a class of polymers characterized by their unique properties of elasticity and flexibility. These materials have the remarkable ability to deform under pressure and return to their original shape when released. Elastomers exhibit resilience in extreme environments, maintaining their sealing properties and mechanical integrity even in the face of high temperatures, […]

Production Part Approval Process (PPAP)—What You Need to Know

Production Part Approval Process, or PPAP, is widely used in the manufacturing industry. You are probably familiar with the concept if you are a Design or Applications Engineer, Manager of Quality Control, or an MRO professional at a manufacturing company. This post is a summary of PPAP in case you are unfamiliar or need a […]

What is Vulcanization and Vulcanized Rubber?

Vulcanized rubber is much stronger than traditional rubber. It can withstand greater pressure and stress and is much more elastic, which is why many manufacturers prefer using vulcanized rubber in their businesses. Vulcanized rubber’s increased strength and elasticity allow it to be stretched to a much greater degree without warping or becoming deformed. Vulcanization also […]