Chemically resistant sealing options

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FFKM sealing solutions are considered for high chemical resistance in the chemical processing industry, but there is no one-size-fits-all option as compatibility depends on specific chemicals and operating conditions. The discussion highlights the importance of identifying the exact chemicals, temperatures, and pressures involved, as different formulations of FFKM can yield varying performance. Alternatives like TRPlast, Viton, and silicone-based seals are also mentioned, with silicone being a cost-effective option for lower temperatures. Users are encouraged to consult compatibility charts to make informed decisions. Ultimately, careful consideration of material properties and application requirements is crucial for selecting the right sealing solution.
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Does anyone have any experience with FFKM sealing solutions? I am looking for rubber seals to be used in the chemical processing industry and would need material that has high chemical resistant properties.

I've done some research online and found something called TRPlast which has a similar chemical resistance to PTFE so this could work, but before I rushed into making commitments, I thought it couldn't hurt to seek out a second opinion.

Is FFKM the best option for chemical processing or should I continue to shop around?

Thanks
 
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EagerBeaver1 said:
Is FFKM the best option for chemical processing or should I continue to shop around?

There is not a best option for *all* chemicals and *all* temperatures/pressures. Which chemicals are you trying to resist, and at what temperature/pressure?

Specifying Chemical resistance or chemical processing is vague. Liquid chlorine, sulphur gas, sulfuric acid, plasticizers, and ethylene oxide are all chemicals, but their elastomer specs can vary, especially when cost/temperature are concerned.
 
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What Chemair said.
Additionally: Once you decide on a material (FFKM, for example), you have the added concern of the specific formulation. FFKM with a carbon filler is absolutely unsuitable for some applications where FFKM with a 'mineral' filler performs beautifully. It's definitely an area where learning from the mistakes/successes of others is wise. Pioneering is expensive.
 
Use silly putty
 
I were looking for a rubber that withstand more than 100ºC and an oil (I could use the oil that is compatible with the rubber) and made a big chart but found no one better than viton and PTFE (I need compatibility also with vacuum) so I will use a ceramic :(

Here are seal compatibility charts that could help:
https://www.finemech.com/tech_resources/chemical_resistance.pdf
http://www.saltech.co.il/_uploads/dbsattachedfiles/chemical.pdf
 
EagerBeaver1 said:
Does anyone have any experience with FFKM sealing solutions? I am looking for rubber seals to be used in the chemical processing industry and would need material that has high chemical resistant properties.

I've done some research online and found something called TRPlast which has a similar chemical resistance to PTFE so this could work, but before I rushed into making commitments, I thought it couldn't hurt to seek out a second opinion.

Is FFKM the best option for chemical processing or should I continue to shop around?

Thanks
These materials above are belonging to family of fluoropolymer elastomers. It is on the high end of performance, although in your case temperature performance is possibly redundant while durability against mechanical stress may be problematic. For lower operating temperatures (below 150C typically) silicone (PDMS) based sealing parts are cheaper and more durable. Silicones have chemical resistance similar to fluoropolymers.
 
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