What is the hardness range of fluorosilicone FVMQ?

Fluorosilicone FVMQ, a remarkable elastomer, has gained significant traction in various industries due to its unique combination of properties. As a leading supplier of fluorosilicone FVMQ, I am often asked about the hardness range of this material. In this blog post, I will delve into the intricacies of the hardness range of fluorosilicone FVMQ, its influencing factors, and its applications across different sectors.

Understanding Fluorosilicone FVMQ

Fluorosilicone FVMQ is a type of synthetic rubber that combines the best features of silicone rubber and fluorocarbon rubber. It exhibits excellent resistance to high temperatures, chemicals, fuels, and oils, making it an ideal choice for applications in harsh environments. The material also offers good electrical insulation properties, low compression set, and high flexibility, which further enhance its usability in various industries.

Hardness Range of Fluorosilicone FVMQ

The hardness of fluorosilicone FVMQ is typically measured on the Shore A scale, which is a common method for measuring the hardness of elastomers. The hardness range of fluorosilicone FVMQ can vary depending on the specific formulation and manufacturing process. Generally, the hardness of fluorosilicone FVMQ can range from 20 to 80 Shore A.

• Low Hardness (20 - 30 Shore A): Fluorosilicone FVMQ with low hardness is extremely soft and flexible. It is often used in applications where a high degree of flexibility and conformability is required, such as gaskets, seals, and vibration dampers. The softness of the material allows it to easily conform to irregular surfaces, providing a tight seal and preventing leakage.
• Medium Hardness (40 - 60 Shore A): Medium-hardness fluorosilicone FVMQ offers a good balance between flexibility and mechanical strength. It is suitable for a wide range of applications, including O-rings, diaphragms, and tubing. The medium hardness provides sufficient stiffness to maintain its shape under pressure while still allowing for some flexibility.
• High Hardness (70 - 80 Shore A): Fluorosilicone FVMQ with high hardness is relatively stiff and rigid. It is commonly used in applications where high mechanical strength and dimensional stability are required, such as automotive engine components, aerospace parts, and industrial machinery. The high hardness ensures that the material can withstand high pressures and stresses without deforming.

Influencing Factors on Hardness

Several factors can influence the hardness of fluorosilicone FVMQ. Understanding these factors is crucial for selecting the appropriate hardness for a specific application.

• Filler Content: The addition of fillers, such as silica, can significantly increase the hardness of fluorosilicone FVMQ. Fillers act as reinforcing agents, improving the mechanical properties of the material. The type and amount of filler used can be adjusted to achieve the desired hardness.
• Crosslink Density: The crosslink density of fluorosilicone FVMQ, which is determined by the vulcanization process, also affects its hardness. A higher crosslink density results in a harder material, as the crosslinks between the polymer chains restrict their movement.
• Temperature: The hardness of fluorosilicone FVMQ can change with temperature. Generally, the material becomes softer at higher temperatures and harder at lower temperatures. This temperature dependence should be considered when selecting the hardness for applications that operate in extreme temperature environments.

Applications of Different Hardness Fluorosilicone FVMQ

The hardness of fluorosilicone FVMQ plays a crucial role in determining its suitability for different applications. Here are some examples of how different hardness levels are used in various industries:

• Automotive Industry: In the automotive industry, low-hardness fluorosilicone FVMQ is used for gaskets and seals in engines and transmissions to prevent fluid leakage. Medium-hardness materials are used for O-rings and diaphragms in fuel systems and braking systems. High-hardness fluorosilicone FVMQ is employed in engine components, such as valve stem seals and piston rings, to withstand high temperatures and pressures.
• Aerospace Industry: The aerospace industry requires materials that can withstand extreme conditions. Low-hardness fluorosilicone FVMQ is used for vibration dampers and flexible couplings to reduce noise and vibration. Medium-hardness materials are used for seals and gaskets in fuel tanks and hydraulic systems. High-hardness fluorosilicone FVMQ is used in aircraft engines and structural components to ensure high mechanical strength and dimensional stability.
• Medical Industry: In the medical industry, low-hardness fluorosilicone FVMQ is used for medical tubing and catheters due to its flexibility and biocompatibility. Medium-hardness materials are used for seals and gaskets in medical devices to prevent contamination and ensure proper functioning. High-hardness fluorosilicone FVMQ can be used in orthopedic implants and dental appliances.

Comparison with Other Fluororubbers

When considering the use of fluorosilicone FVMQ, it is also important to compare it with other types of fluororubbers, such as bisphenol vulcanized fluororubber raw rubber and peroxy vulcanized fluororubber raw rubber. You can find more information about Bisphenol Vulcanized Fluororubber Raw Rubber and Peroxy Vulcanized Fluororubber Raw Rubber.

• Bisphenol Vulcanized Fluororubber: This type of fluororubber offers excellent chemical resistance and high-temperature performance. It typically has a higher hardness range compared to fluorosilicone FVMQ, making it more suitable for applications that require high mechanical strength and resistance to aggressive chemicals.
• Peroxy Vulcanized Fluororubber: Peroxy vulcanized fluororubber provides good compression set resistance and high-temperature stability. It can also have a wide hardness range, but its properties may differ from fluorosilicone FVMQ in terms of flexibility and chemical resistance.

Conclusion

The hardness range of fluorosilicone FVMQ is a critical factor that determines its performance and suitability for different applications. With a hardness range from 20 to 80 Shore A, fluorosilicone FVMQ can meet the diverse needs of various industries, from automotive and aerospace to medical and industrial applications. As a supplier of fluorosilicone FVMQ, I am committed to providing high-quality materials with the appropriate hardness for your specific requirements.

If you are interested in learning more about our fluorosilicone FVMQ products or would like to discuss your application needs, please feel free to contact us. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you and provide you with the best solutions for your projects.

References

• "Handbook of Elastomers" by B. D. Croll and M. J. Hamer
• "Rubber Technology: Compounding, Mixing, and Vulcanization" by J. A. Brydson