What is the hardness range of fluorosilicone extruded products?

Fluorosilicone extruded products are widely used in various industries due to their excellent performance characteristics, such as high - temperature resistance, chemical resistance, and weatherability. One of the key properties that often concerns customers is the hardness range of these products. As a fluorosilicone extrusion supplier, I'd like to share some in - depth insights into this topic.

Understanding Hardness in Fluorosilicone Extruded Products

Hardness is a measure of a material's resistance to indentation or deformation. In the context of fluorosilicone extruded products, it is typically measured using the Shore hardness scale. The Shore scale has different types, but for elastomers like fluorosilicone, the Shore A scale is most commonly used.

The hardness of fluorosilicone extruded products can significantly impact their performance and suitability for different applications. For example, a softer fluorosilicone product (lower Shore A hardness) may be more flexible and better suited for applications where sealing or conformability is required, such as gaskets in irregularly shaped spaces. On the other hand, a harder fluorosilicone product (higher Shore A hardness) can provide better dimensional stability and resistance to wear, making it a good choice for applications like mechanical seals in high - pressure environments.

Typical Hardness Range of Fluorosilicone Extruded Products

The hardness range of fluorosilicone extruded products generally spans from around 30 Shore A to 80 Shore A. This relatively wide range allows for a great deal of customization to meet the diverse needs of different industries.

Low - Hardness Fluorosilicone Extrusions (30 - 40 Shore A)

Fluorosilicone extrusions with a hardness in the 30 - 40 Shore A range are extremely soft and flexible. They can easily conform to uneven surfaces, which makes them ideal for applications where a tight seal is needed around irregularly shaped objects. For instance, in the automotive industry, these soft fluorosilicone extrusions can be used as door and window seals. Their flexibility ensures a proper fit and helps to prevent water, dust, and noise from entering the vehicle cabin.

In the electronics industry, low - hardness fluorosilicone extrusions can be used as shock - absorbing gaskets. They can protect sensitive electronic components from vibrations and impacts, which is crucial for the reliable operation of electronic devices.

Medium - Hardness Fluorosilicone Extrusions (40 - 60 Shore A)

The medium - hardness range of 40 - 60 Shore A is perhaps the most commonly used in many industrial applications. Fluorosilicone extrusions in this range offer a good balance between flexibility and mechanical strength.

In the aerospace industry, medium - hardness fluorosilicone extrusions are used in various sealing applications. They can withstand the extreme temperature and pressure conditions encountered during flight while still maintaining their sealing performance. For example, they can be used as seals for fuel systems, where they need to resist the corrosive effects of aviation fuels and lubricants.

In the chemical processing industry, these extrusions are also popular. They can be used as gaskets and seals in pipes and valves, providing a reliable barrier against the leakage of corrosive chemicals. The medium hardness ensures that the extrusions can maintain their shape under pressure while still being able to adapt to minor surface irregularities.

High - Hardness Fluorosilicone Extrusions (60 - 80 Shore A)

High - hardness fluorosilicone extrusions, with a Shore A hardness between 60 and 80, are known for their excellent dimensional stability and wear resistance. They are often used in applications where the extrusions need to withstand high mechanical stresses.

In the manufacturing of industrial machinery, high - hardness fluorosilicone extrusions can be used as guide rails or bushings. Their high hardness allows them to resist abrasion and deformation caused by the movement of machine parts, ensuring smooth and reliable operation of the machinery.

In the oil and gas industry, these extrusions can be used in downhole tools. They need to withstand the high pressures and harsh chemical environments found deep underground. The high - hardness fluorosilicone extrusions can maintain their integrity and performance under these extreme conditions.

Factors Affecting the Hardness of Fluorosilicone Extruded Products

Several factors can influence the hardness of fluorosilicone extruded products. Understanding these factors is essential for producing extrusions with the desired hardness.

Raw Material Composition

The type and amount of raw materials used in the fluorosilicone compound play a significant role in determining the hardness. For example, different types of fluorosilicone polymers have different inherent hardness characteristics. Additionally, the addition of fillers can increase the hardness of the final product. Fillers such as silica can be used to enhance the mechanical properties of the fluorosilicone, including its hardness.

There are also different types of vulcanized fluororubber raw rubbers that can affect the hardness. You can find more information about Peroxy Vulcanized Fluororubber Raw Rubber and Bisphenol Vulcanized Fluororubber Raw Rubber on our website. These different vulcanization methods and raw rubbers can result in fluorosilicone extrusions with different hardness and performance properties.

Vulcanization Process

The vulcanization process is another critical factor. Vulcanization is a chemical process that cross - links the polymer chains in the fluorosilicone, which affects its hardness. The temperature, time, and pressure during vulcanization can all be adjusted to control the degree of cross - linking. A higher degree of cross - linking generally leads to a harder fluorosilicone product.

Extrusion Process Parameters

The parameters used during the extrusion process can also have an impact on the hardness of the final product. For example, the speed of extrusion and the temperature of the extrusion die can affect the molecular orientation and distribution in the fluorosilicone, which in turn can influence its hardness.

Customizing the Hardness of Fluorosilicone Extruded Products

As a fluorosilicone extrusion supplier, we understand that different customers have different requirements for the hardness of their fluorosilicone extrusions. That's why we offer customization services to meet these specific needs.

Our experienced R & D team can work closely with customers to develop fluorosilicone compounds with the exact hardness required for their applications. We use advanced testing equipment to accurately measure and control the hardness of the extrusions during the production process. Whether you need a soft fluorosilicone extrusion for a sealing application or a hard one for a high - stress mechanical part, we can provide a solution that meets your specifications.

Contact Us for Your Fluorosilicone Extrusion Needs

If you are in need of fluorosilicone extruded products with a specific hardness range, we are here to help. Our team of experts can provide you with professional advice and high - quality products. We are committed to meeting your needs and ensuring your satisfaction. Please feel free to reach out to us to discuss your requirements and start the procurement process.

References

• ASTM D2240 - 15, Standard Test Method for Rubber Property - Durometer Hardness.
• "Handbook of Elastomers" by I. Franta.
• Industry reports on fluorosilicone applications in automotive, aerospace, and chemical industries.