Applications for FKM (Viton) Rubber Molding
Since its inception by the DuPont company in 1957, the applications for FKM (Viton) rubber molding have grown exponentially and played a considerable role in the advancement of the aerospace industry in particular. Originally developed to address the needs of high-performance seals used throughout airplanes, FKM quickly replaced leaking nitrile seals originally used in WWII military planes. Now, nearly seventy years later, the experienced and knowledgeable team at Lake Erie Rubber is working with customers to develop new and exciting custom rubber molding applications for FKM. With an industry-leading assortment of robust rubber injection, transfer, and compression molding machines and ISO-certified procedures, Lake Erie Rubber is capable of meeting the most complex FKM (Viton) rubber molding requirements.
What is FKM (Viton) Synthetic Rubber?
FKM, often referred to as its original DuPont brand name Viton, is a fluorine or fluoro-rubber with several different variations depending on the specific chemical composition. This synthetic rubber revolutionized the aerospace industry in particular due to its specialized nature and high-performance characteristics, specifically temperature ranges and resistance to certain chemicals and solvents. While typically more expensive than other elastomers like nitrile or neoprene, the long-term cost savings provided by FKM’s inherent durability and resistance are extremely appealing for certain industries. For a more comprehensive breakdown of FKM, read our “What is FKM or Viton Rubber?” article, otherwise, you can view a summarized chart below comparing FKM to three alternate rubbers.
Comparing FKM Rubber Molding Properties
| Property | FKM (Viton) | Nitrile (NBR) | Neoprene | Silicone |
| Temperature Range | -15°F to 500°F | -30°F to 250°F | -40°F to 275°F | -80°F to 450°F |
| Chemical Resistance | Excellent (fuels, oils, acids, solvents) | Moderate (oils, fuels) | Moderate (oils, weather) | Good (oxidation, ozone, water) |
| Durability & Wear | High | Moderate | Moderate | Low |
| Flexibility | Low | High | Moderate | High |
| Compression Set Resistance | Excellent | Good | Good | Fair |
| Weather & Ozone Resistance | Excellent | Poor | Good | Excellent |
| Cost | High | Low | Moderate | High |
Specific Rubber Molding Applications of FKM (Viton)
Due to its complicated composition and high cost, FKM rubber molding is not as straightforward to mold into complex shapes as alternatives like natural rubber, silicon, or even EPDM rubber. The two leading factors that make working with FKM a considerable challenge, even for experienced rubber molding manufacturers, are the high chemical resistance and strong internal molecular structure. Both of these factors contribute to the overall inflexible nature of FKM and make the rubber prone to additional shrinkage during the curing process, which proves challenging, especially when trying to achieve strict dimensions. With decades of experience working with this material and a complete arsenal of high-tech and powerful rubber molding equipment, Lake Erie Rubber can produce premium quality products from FKM with minimal waste and incredible precision.
Aerospace Components
FKM is an ideal rubber molding material for aerospace components due to its ability to withstand an impressive range of temperatures, from -15°F(-26°C) to 500°F(260°C), and its strong resistance to numerous solvents or chemicals. Additionally, depending on the specific location of the FKM rubber part, it offers resistance to UV exposure and ozone (a common byproduct of electrical systems) and even has moderate electrical resistance properties for low-voltage or low-frequency usage.
Chemical, Oil, & Gas Production
As a synthetic rubber, FKM has a wide range of chemical resistances that make it a primary candidate for challenging applications. FKM has exceptional resistance to acetylene, citric acids, corn and crude oils, gasoline, plating solutions, sea salt spray, and countless other substances used for chemical, oil, and gas production.
Power Generation
With impressive durability, strength, temperature range, and resistance to both ozone and certain substances, FKM is widely used in the power generation industry to create seals, o-rings, gaskets, and diaphragms. Known for delivering long-lasting performance in challenging operational circumstances, Lake Erie has applied its expertise working with FKM to customers in wind, nuclear, and geothermal power facilities throughout the United States.
Contact Lake Erie Rubber for A FKM Rubber Molding Quote
With its exceptional durability, chemical resistance, and ability to withstand extreme temperatures, FKM (Viton) rubber continues to be a crucial material for industries that demand high-performance rubber molding solutions. Lake Erie Rubber’s expertise with injection, transfer, and compression rubber molding, combined with superior manufacturing equipment and engineering insight, ensures that even the most complex FKM rubber molding applications are met with ISO-9001 certified quality, precision, and efficiency. Whether the end application is in the aerospace, chemical processing, or power generation industries, Lake Erie Rubber remains committed to delivering high-quality FKM (Viton) rubber solutions that exceed industry standards and customer expectations. Contact us today to learn more about our FKM rubber molding capabilities and to receive a quote for your next project!
