How to glue Fluorocarbon rubber (FKM rubber)
How to bond Fluorocarbon rubber/Fluoroelastomer (FKM rubber)
Fluoroelastomers are known for their excellent thermal and chemical resistance. They are generally capable of long-term use at temperatures up to 200 °C. These properties stem from the high polarity of fluorine groups, the high bond energy in the carbon-fluorine bond, and the complete saturation of the fluorocarbon backbone. The physical properties of fluoroelastomers depend on the ionic attraction between adjacent fluorine and hydrogen atoms. The tendency for poor flexibility at low temperatures increases as the fluorine content in the polymer rises. Fluorosilicones or special grades of fluoroelastomers are generally used when good low-temperature flexibility is required. Fluoroelastomers show very good resistance to hydrocarbons, acids, and chlorinated solvents. To improve oil resistance of fluoroelastomers, the fluorine content can be increased. However, increased fluorine content reduces resistance to polar solvents due to the increased polarity of the polymer. To overcome these limitations, special formulations with enhanced chemical resistance are available.
FKM, or fluoroelastomer, is widely used across various industries due to its excellent properties. It is used for different types of seals, gaskets, hoses, and insulation, making it suitable for demanding applications.
The surface tension of FKM (fluorocarbon rubber) typically lies in the range of 25–30 dyn/cm.
FKM, or fluorocarbon rubber, is available under various trade names from different manufacturers. Some of the most well-known include DAI-EL, FLUOREL, KALREZ, TECNOFLON, and VITON.
Bonding
The surface must be thoroughly cleaned to remove oil, grease, and other contaminants. Use a non-aggressive cleaning agent to ensure the surface is clean and dry.
FKM rubber can be a challenging material to bond, and in many cases (depending on strength requirements) it is recommended to treat the surface with a primer or corona/plasma treatment prior to bonding.
Choice of FKM adhesive
- Cyanoacrylate adhesive has the ability to bond quickly and effectively to many materials, including FKM rubber. It forms a strong and rapid bond, making it useful for quick bonding applications.
- UV adhesive cures quickly under UV light and may be suitable for applications where fast production time is critical. UV adhesive must be compatible with the FKM rubber material to achieve reliable bonding. It is important to choose a UV adhesive specifically formulated to bond elastomeric materials such as FKM.
Allow the adhesive to cure completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions before applying load or further processing. After bonding, the joint should be thoroughly tested to ensure it meets required strength and durability standards.
Manufacturers
Fluoroelastomer (FKM) is offered by the following manufacturers under their respective trade names:
DAI-EL by Daikin
FLUOREL by 3M
KALREZ by DuPont
TECNOFLON by Ausimont
VITON by DuPont Performance Elastomers
Contact us
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