How to process fluorosilicone FVMQ?

Fluorosilicone FVMQ, a remarkable synthetic elastomer, combines the best of fluoropolymers and silicones, offering outstanding chemical resistance, thermal stability, and low-temperature flexibility. As a leading fluorosilicone FVMQ supplier, we understand the intricacies of processing this high-performance material. In this blog, we'll delve into the step-by-step process of working with fluorosilicone FVMQ, from raw material selection to the final product.

Raw Material Selection

The first crucial step in processing fluorosilicone FVMQ is selecting the right raw materials. Our company offers a wide range of high-quality fluorosilicone FVMQ compounds, each formulated to meet specific application requirements. When choosing a compound, consider factors such as hardness, chemical resistance, and temperature stability.

We also provide Peroxy Vulcanized Fluororubber Raw Rubber and Bisphenol Vulcanized Fluororubber Raw Rubber, which are essential for achieving the desired vulcanization properties. These raw rubbers are carefully selected and tested to ensure consistent quality and performance.

Mixing

Once the raw materials are selected, the next step is mixing. Mixing is a critical process that ensures the uniform distribution of additives, fillers, and curatives throughout the fluorosilicone FVMQ compound. This step is typically carried out using a two-roll mill or an internal mixer.

When using a two-roll mill, the compound is fed between the two rotating rolls, which apply shear forces to the material, breaking down agglomerates and dispersing the additives. The rolls are heated to a specific temperature to facilitate the mixing process.

An internal mixer, on the other hand, uses a set of rotors to knead the compound, providing more intense mixing action. This method is suitable for large-scale production and can achieve better dispersion of additives.

During the mixing process, it's important to control the temperature, time, and speed to ensure optimal results. Overmixing can lead to degradation of the compound, while undermixing can result in poor dispersion and inconsistent properties.

Molding

After mixing, the fluorosilicone FVMQ compound is ready for molding. There are several molding methods available, including compression molding, injection molding, and extrusion.

Compression Molding

Compression molding is a common method used for producing fluorosilicone FVMQ parts. In this process, the compound is placed in a preheated mold cavity, and pressure is applied to force the material to fill the mold. The mold is then heated to a specific temperature to cure the compound.

Compression molding is suitable for producing parts with complex shapes and high precision. It allows for the use of multiple cavities in a single mold, increasing production efficiency.

Injection Molding

Injection molding is another popular method for processing fluorosilicone FVMQ. In this process, the compound is melted and injected into a mold cavity under high pressure. The mold is then cooled to solidify the part.

Injection molding offers several advantages, including high production speed, consistent part quality, and the ability to produce parts with thin walls and complex geometries. However, it requires specialized equipment and tooling, which can be costly.

Extrusion

Extrusion is a continuous process used for producing fluorosilicone FVMQ profiles, tubes, and hoses. In this process, the compound is fed into an extruder, where it is melted and forced through a die to form the desired shape. The extruded product is then cooled and cut to the required length.

Extrusion is a cost-effective method for producing long, continuous parts. It allows for the production of parts with a consistent cross-section and can be used to produce a wide range of shapes and sizes.

Vulcanization

Vulcanization is the process of cross-linking the polymer chains in the fluorosilicone FVMQ compound to improve its mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and thermal stability. There are several vulcanization methods available, including peroxide vulcanization, bisphenol vulcanization, and radiation vulcanization.

Peroxide Vulcanization

Peroxide vulcanization is a common method used for vulcanizing fluorosilicone FVMQ. In this process, a peroxide initiator is added to the compound during mixing. When the compound is heated, the peroxide decomposes, generating free radicals that react with the polymer chains to form cross-links.

Peroxide vulcanization offers several advantages, including fast curing times, good mechanical properties, and excellent chemical resistance. However, it requires careful control of the peroxide concentration and curing temperature to avoid overcuring or undercuring.

Bisphenol Vulcanization

Bisphenol vulcanization is another method used for vulcanizing fluorosilicone FVMQ. In this process, a bisphenol curative is added to the compound during mixing. When the compound is heated, the bisphenol reacts with the polymer chains to form cross-links.

Bisphenol vulcanization offers good mechanical properties, excellent compression set resistance, and high-temperature stability. However, it requires a longer curing time compared to peroxide vulcanization.

Radiation Vulcanization

Radiation vulcanization is a relatively new method for vulcanizing fluorosilicone FVMQ. In this process, the compound is exposed to high-energy radiation, such as gamma rays or electron beams, to generate free radicals that react with the polymer chains to form cross-links.

Radiation vulcanization offers several advantages, including fast curing times, uniform cross-linking, and the ability to vulcanize thick parts. However, it requires specialized equipment and safety precautions, which can be costly.

Post-Curing

After vulcanization, the fluorosilicone FVMQ parts may require post-curing to improve their final properties. Post-curing is a secondary heat treatment process that is carried out at a higher temperature for a longer period of time.

Post-curing helps to remove any residual volatiles, complete the cross-linking process, and improve the mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and thermal stability of the parts. The post-curing temperature and time depend on the specific compound and application requirements.

Quality Control

Quality control is an essential part of the fluorosilicone FVMQ processing process. At our company, we have a comprehensive quality control system in place to ensure that our products meet the highest standards of quality and performance.

We use a variety of testing methods, including physical testing, chemical analysis, and microscopy, to evaluate the properties of our fluorosilicone FVMQ compounds and parts. Our testing facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and staffed by experienced technicians who are trained to perform accurate and reliable tests.

Conclusion

Processing fluorosilicone FVMQ requires careful attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the material's properties and processing requirements. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can ensure the successful production of high-quality fluorosilicone FVMQ parts.

As a leading fluorosilicone FVMQ supplier, we are committed to providing our customers with the best products and services. If you have any questions or need further information about processing fluorosilicone FVMQ, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to working with you to meet your specific needs.

References

• ASTM International. (2023). Standard test methods for rubber property - vulcanization using rotorless cure meters. ASTM D5289.
• Brown, W. R., & Walsh, D. J. (2018). Handbook of silicone elastomers. William Andrew.
• Kresge, E. N., & Coughlin, E. B. (2019). Rubber technology handbook. Hanser Publishers.