O-rings play a key role in applications where it is necessary to maintain an efficient seal under extreme temperatures.
Fortunately, technological advancement in the industry has driven the development of new elastomer formulations that allow sealing materials, such as O-rings, to operate under increasingly demanding conditions, especially at higher temperatures.
From Epidor we want to tell you about the best options of O-ring materials, The characteristics and applications are detailed in order to choose the most suitable sealing solution.
Index
O-rings that can operate at high temperatures
As we mentioned earlier, there are new formulations of certain elastomers such as silicone (VMQ), ethylene propylene rubber EPDM, fluoroelastomer (FPM) and perfluoroelastomer (FFPM), which allow working in more severe temperature conditions.
Which material is the most suitable in each case? This question is difficult to answer, since it depends on the application, the temperature, its properties, the fluid, etc.
We show you the main characteristics of these O-rings, capable of withstanding high temperatures, so that you can choose the most suitable in each case.
Silicone O-rings (VMQ)
Silicone O-rings are an excellent choice for applications requiring high temperature resistance, as they can operate in continuous service up to +280 °C and withstand temperature peaks of up to +320 °C. This unique silicone formulation allows the seals to retain their physical and mechanical properties even in extreme working environments.
These gaskets show remarkable resistance to ozone, oxygen and UV radiation, making them ideal for applications exposed to adverse environmental conditions. In addition, they have moderate resistance to low-concentration acids and bases, extending their range of use in industrial sectors where these chemicals are handled.
EPDM high temperature O-rings (90EPDM448)
Ethylene-propylene rubber (EPDM) is known for its resistance to water vapor and moderately high temperatures. However, the 90EPDM448 compound is designed to withstand continuous service up to +288 °C, making it an ideal solution for geothermal applications such as process pumps, valves and turbines. This formulation far outperforms conventional EPDM variants, whose maximum working temperature ranges from 140 to 150 °C.
In addition, this material has excellent resistance to water vapor, with outstanding performance in drilling services and other equipment exposed to demanding conditions. It can withstand peak temperatures of up to +315°C in steam, making it an ideal choice for high-temperature industrial applications.
Fluoroelastomer (FPM or FKM) O-rings
Fluoroelastomer (FPM or FKM) plate and gasket for operating temperatures up to 250°C.
Fluoroelastomer O-ring material has a low permanent deformation (compression set) which makes it especially recommended for its high sealing capacity in process pumps and valves.
Depending on the proportion of fluorine it contains, there are several variants of fluorinated rubber or FKM, each designed to meet different needs for thermal resistance, chemical resistance and flexibility.
- Type A or E - (66% fluor) The most common. Considered for general purposes. Very low permanent deformation, but poor resistance to mixtures with alcohol or water vapor.
- Type B - (67% fluorine) Improved resistance to alcohols and hot water, but worse permanent deformation results.
- Type GF or F - (70% fluor) Better chemical resistance to fuel oil, alcohols and solvents. Also to hot water and steam. Better permanent deformation value than type B but below type A.
- Type GLT - (65% fluorine) Improved flexibility at low temperatures (down to -40°C). But less chemical resistance.
- Type GFLT - (68% fluorine) Combine good chemical resistance with low temperature flexibility (down to -35ºC).
Perfluoroelastomer (FFPM or FFKM) O-rings
These perfluoroelastomer seals are state-of-the-art. FFPM or FFKM is one of the best solutions for high-temperature applications, with exceptional thermal and chemical resistance. They are capable of withstanding continuous temperatures of up to +327 °C, which places them in the category of the most advanced materials in this field.
In addition to their heat resistance, these FFPM or FFKM gaskets offer excellent chemical resistance to a wide variety of aggressive chemicals, including strong acids. Their advanced formulation allows for low permanent deformation, with a value of only 8%, ensuring efficient sealing over time, even under extreme conditions.
AFLAS® High Temperature O-Rings
AFLAS® seals are known for their excellent temperature resistance, with continuous service up to +230 °C. In addition, they offer outstanding chemical resistance to strong acids and bases, as well as lubricants and other aggressive chemicals. This type of gasket is ideal for applications where a seal resistant to both heat and corrosive chemicals is required.
What material is recommended for high temperature O-rings?
Selecting the right O-ring material for high temperature applications is crucial to ensure the reliability of the sealing system. The best material for high temperature O-rings will be determined by the right combination of thermal resistance, chemical resistance and flexibility. In this way, we will achieve the durability and effectiveness of the seals in specific environments.
At Epidor, we offer a wide range of O-rings designed to withstand extreme temperature and pressure conditions. Our products include advanced formulations such as silicone, EPDM, fluoroelastomers and perfluoroelastomers, all selected for each specific application.
Consult our catalog of sealing products to discover all our solutions for O-rings or contact our team of consultants and engineers to find out how we can help you optimize your industrial systems.