FKM O-rings

FKM O-rings, commonly known by the brand name Viton®, are high-performance sealing solutions renowned for their exceptional resistance to high temperatures, aggressive chemicals, oils, and fuels, making them a preferred choice in critical industrial, automotive, and aerospace applications.
Key Features and Properties
Material: FKM is a family of fluorocarbon-based fluoroelastomer materials as per ASTM International standard D1418. Viton® is a specific brand name for FKM polymers produced by Chemours.
Temperature Range: Generally operates effectively from -15°F to 400°F (~ -26°C to 205°C), with special grades capable of withstanding even higher or lower temperatures for short periods.
Mechanical Properties: Offers strong tensile strength, excellent compression set resistance, and good abrasion resistance, ensuring durability and a stable seal under pressure.
Durability: Displays very good resistance to ozone, UV radiation, and aging due to its stable chemical composition, making it suitable for outdoor exposure where NBR O-rings would degrade.
Chemical Compatibility
Resistant To:
Petroleum-based oils, fuels (gasoline, diesel, biodiesel).
Mineral oils and greases, silicone oils and greases.
Aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons (benzene, toluene).
Acids and alkalis.
Halogenated solvents and hard vacuum applications.
Not Recommended For Use With:
Ketones (e.g., acetone, methyl ethyl ketone - MEK).
Strong organic acids (e.g., formic and acetic acids).
Amines and anhydrous ammonia.
Low molecular weight esters and ethers.
Glycol-based brake fluids.
Typical Applications
Due to their superior performance in demanding conditions, FKM/Viton® O-rings are used in critical applications where failure is not an option:
Automotive Industry: Essential for seals in engines, fuel systems, and transmissions where they are exposed to high temperatures and corrosive fuels and oils.
Aerospace: Used in aircraft engines, fuel systems, and hydraulic systems that encounter extreme temperatures and chemicals.
Oil and Gas: Applied in drilling equipment, valves, and pipelines handling aggressive chemicals and high pressures.
Chemical Processing: Used in pumps, valves, and piping systems for their resistance to a wide range of aggressive chemicals and solvents.
Medical and Pharmaceutical: Special FDA-compliant compounds are available for use in medical devices requiring sterilization and resistance to cleaning agents.