Resistant to chemicals, extreme temperatures, and mechanical stress, FFKM o rings can offer and support it all.
At SSP, we provide a wide selection of various types of seals and gaskets comprising different materials, manufacturing O-rings suitable for a range of applications. This includes specialized solutions like EMI O-rings, which are crucial for applications requiring electromagnetic interference shielding. To find out more check out our o-ring pages online for information.
Throughout this post, we look at the makeup of FFKM o rings specifically, the levels of performance you can expect from them, and the applications where they are most suitable.
FFKM O-rings explained
FFKM is one of the best-performing O-ring material types currently available on the market.
FFKM is an elastomer that we use in O-rings to help support the high performance of specific applications. Composed of a fluorocarbon polymer, this particular material and O-ring help support a range of mechanical properties.
Manufacturing process
Manufactured using a specialist moulding press, raw FFKM material is injected into the press and moulded to the desired shape and size.
This compression moulding technique sees the elastomer extruded from the raw material. From this point, it is then placed into the press and shaped using high pressure and temperature.
(Note: As this is a precision process, please work with experienced professionals who have the right tools and equipment to ensure high-standards and quality).
Its rubber compound is resistant to almost all chemicals, and due to its high level of elasticity, FFKM industrial seals are also suitable as flange, piston, or rod seals.
FFKM also contains a higher amount of fluorine than standard FKM; hence, you will find that it has a higher resistance to fluctuating temperatures.
Used to prevent leaks, this robust and reliable seal may be slightly more expensive but offers numerous benefits.
What are FFKM O-rings?
Developed in the late 1960s, the FFKM chemical structure combines the chemical resistance of PTFE with the flexibility and elasticity of FKM, creating a strong molecular bond between carbon and fluorine.
FFKM is a widely used material suitable for various industry sectors. Offering excellent chemical and thermal resistance, FFKM O-rings are a great sealing force.
A high-performing polymer material that is able to retain all of its physical properties even when placed within the harshest of environments, it is the material’s chemical structure that is matched with its super strength and carbon-fluorine bonds that provides it with these excellent properties and highlights the benefits that this particular type of o ring has to offer.
Where FFKM gaskets are used
- Aerospace
- Pharmaceutical applications
- Food and beverage sector
- FFKM O-rings for automotive
- Oil and gas industry
- Chemical processing applications
- For use in high-pressure valves and pump systems
- Heavy duty machinery
- Hydraulic systems
Benefits of FFKM O-rings
- Less maintenance compared to their o ring counterparts – making them a cost-effective long-term solution.
- Resistant to a range of chemicals such as strong acids, bases, and various solvents – ideal for chemical processing and automotive applications.
- Can withstand extreme temperature ranges from -20 degrees Celsius to 325 degree Celsius – without warping, splitting, or compression set becoming affected.
- Offers high levels of tensile strength, approximately 15-20 MPa, and high levels of elasticity, i.e. 1500 MPa.
- Its low gas permeability means that this O-ring is suitable for gas-tight seal applications.
- It is versatile and adaptable, making it suitable for various types of equipment and applications.
- They have an extended lifespan – this type of o ring has a life expectancy of over a year.
- Resilient to harsh conditions.
- A range of sizes is available, and production is precise, ensuring high-quality products.
- It has an excellent compression set – a key requirement in critical applications.
- Available in a variety of compounds (we would always advise you to work with an expert who can provide you with the most appropriate and suitable o ring for the intended application).
- Standard and customised FFKM o rings are available, making them customisable to any application.
- Durable – o rings last longer, reducing the need for replacements and costly maintenance
Note: This type of O-ring is one of the most expensive available, so initial costs do seem high; however, when we balance this with the long-term benefits FFKM seals offer, they become cost-effective for specific applications.
O ring suppliers UK
It’s essential that you choose the right sealing solution for your application’s design and specifications.
Choosing the best and most appropriate material that helps to meet all performance and sustainability requirements.
At SSP, we build quality into every aspect of our seals and gaskets and our O-rings always offer exceptional and reliable sealing performance.
Designing and manufacturing high-quality seals with laser precision, we provide:
- O rings
- Soft-cut gaskets and sheeting
- Metallic and semi metallic gaskets
- Flange insulation sets
- Elastomeric sealing products
- Pipeline supplies
- Gland compression packings
Are you looking for the perfect sealing product?
Look no further.
O ring suppliers Leeds, call us on 01535 274 776 or email sales@specialistsealingproducts.co.uk today.
