FFKM - FFPM - Kalrez® O-rings

* Disclaimer: O-ring-stocks.eu is not an authorized dealer of Dupont Kalrez®, Greene Tweed Chemraz®, PPE Perlast® and Trelleborg Isolast® O-rings. We supply FFKM O-rings that are approximately equal to the original compounds of these brands. However, we can supply Freudenberg Simriz® O-rings. 

The FFKM O-ring, also known as perfluoroelastomer O-ring or Kalrez O-ring are designed to withstand the harshest industrial conditions. These O-rings are essential in industries where reliability and durability are critical. This is due to their resistance to extreme temperatures and aggressive chemicals. Unlike conventional elastomers, FFKM retains its sealing integrity even after prolonged exposure to corrosive substances and high-pressure environments. Its exceptional non-reactive nature makes it ideal for critical applications where contamination must be kept to a minimum. Where standard rubber compounds fail the FFKM O-ring ensures high operating efficiency and long service life in demanding applications. This results in excellent performance due to their good quality resistance. 

What is FFKM?

What exactly is FFKM? Perfluoroelastomer is a special synthetic rubber designed to provide maximum chemical and thermal resistance. Unlike older elastomers which contain hydrogen atoms, FFKM is made entirely of carbon-fluorine compounds, giving it unparalleled stability. This molecular structure makes it resistant to extreme temperatures. The FFKM O-ring can withstand continuous exposure to 340°C. In addition, FFKM is highly resistant to aggressive chemicals, including strong acids, solvents and hydrocarbons, making it superior to FKM (fluoroelastomer) and other sealing materials. The FFKM O-ring is also an excellent choice for vacuum and semiconductor applications where contamination control is critical. This is due to its low outgassing properties. 

Applications for FFKM O-Rings

Due to their excellent properties the FFKM O-ring is widely used in industries where extreme conditions demand first class sealing solutions. In the chemical processing industry they provide leak-free sealing in reactors, pipelines and valves exposed to highly corrosive substances. The aerospace sector also relies heavily on FFKM O-ringe for critical components such as fuel systems, hydraulic lines and engine seals, where temperature fluctuations and other chemical exposures are a constant challenge. Finally, the FFKM O-ring is widely used in the pharmaceutical and food industries, where it meets stringent regulatory standards with a focus on maintaining optimum sealing performance. 

Advantages of the FFKM O-Ring

So what are the benefits of an FFKM O-ring? One of the most important is their phenomenal resistance to almost all aggressive chemicals. Examples include strong acids, bases and organic solvents. Their ability to maintain the same elasticity and sealing integrity at high temperatures up to 340°C sets them apart from other elastomers making them the right choice when working with high temperatures. Another important advantage is their low permeability which makes them more effective in vacuum environments where gas leakage must be minimised. In addition, The FFKM O-Ring has excellent compressive strength making them durable in both static and dynamic sealing applications. The combination of these benefits makes them one of the most reliable seals for extreme environments. 

Disadvantages of the FFKM O-Ring

Despite its superior performance the FFKM O-ring has some disadvantages. The most important is certainly the high cost compared to standard elastomers such as NBR, EPDM or even FKM. The special manufacturing process and raw materials required to produce the FFKM O-ring contribute to the high price. Although FFKM has excellent chemical and thermal resistance its mechanical properties such as tear and abrasion resistance are lower than other elastomers such as HNBR or PU. Finally, the O-ring FFKM requires careful material selection based on the specific application as not all FFKM grades offer the same level of performance under different conditions.