Fluoroelastomers (FKM) are highly preferred for vacuum sealing applications due to their outstanding performance in high vacuum environments.
- Low Gas Permeability: FKM has a very low rate of gas permeability, meaning it effectively prevents gases from passing through the seal. This is critical in maintaining a stable vacuum, where even minimal gas leakage can compromise the environment.
- Chemical Resistance: FKM is highly resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including oils, fuels, and many aggressive solvents. In vacuum environments, exposure to various chemicals can occur, and FKM’s resistance ensures that the seal remains intact without degradation.
- Thermal Stability: FKM can withstand a broad temperature range, often from -20°C to 200°C or higher, without losing its sealing properties. In vacuum applications, temperatures can vary significantly, and FKM’s thermal stability ensures that the seal remains effective.
- Mechanical Strength: FKM offers excellent mechanical properties, such as high tensile strength and elongation, which contribute to the durability and reliability of the seal under vacuum conditions. This is especially important when the seal is subjected to pressure differentials or mechanical stress.
Here is a list of recommended FKM rubber hardness levels for different vacuum pressures:
| Vacuum Pressure Range | Recommended Hardness (Shore A) | Application Example |
|---|---|---|
| Low Vacuum (1 atm to 1×10⁻³ Pa) | 60-70 Shore A | General-purpose sealing, such as vacuum packaging |
| Medium Vacuum (1×10⁻³ to 1×10⁻⁶ Pa) | 70-75 Shore A | Vacuum chambers, laboratory equipment |
| High Vacuum (1×10⁻⁶ to 1×10⁻⁹ Pa) | 75-80 Shore A | Semiconductor processing equipment, high-vacuum furnaces |
| Ultra-High Vacuum (1×10⁻⁹ to 1×10⁻¹² Pa) | 75-85 Shore A | Aerospace applications, ultra-high vacuum systems |
| Extreme Ultra-High Vacuum (< 1×10⁻¹² Pa) | 80-90 Shore A | Particle accelerators, space simulation chambers |
These properties make FKM an ideal choice for vacuum sealing in various industries, including aerospace, chemical processing, and semiconductor manufacturing.
Please contact us, OBT Rubber Seal, for better understanding your technical requirement and our proposal.
