What is the working temperature range of the fluorine rubber sealing ring?

The working temperature range of the fluorine rubber sealing ring is typically -25℃ to 250℃. For some special formulations or application scenarios, it can extend to -60℃ to 300℃. The specific temperature range is influenced by the molecular structure, fluorine content, and usage conditions (such as static sealing or dynamic sealing). Here is a detailed analysis:

I. Normal Temperature Range

General grade fluororubber

Static seal: The long-term operating temperature range is -26°C to 260°C, and it can withstand a short-term temperature of 290°C in emergency situations.

Dynamic seal: The temperature range is slightly narrower, usually -15°C to 200°C. Due to dynamic friction, the material ages more rapidly.

Typical applications: Automotive transmission systems, oil extraction equipment, chemical pipelines, etc., which need to maintain sealing performance in high-temperature and high-pressure environments for a long time.

Low-temperature fluororubber

By adjusting the formula (such as increasing the fluorine content or adding plasticizers), the low-temperature performance can be improved to -60°C, while maintaining high-temperature tolerance (such as -60°C to 260°C).

Typical applications: Polar scientific research equipment, low-temperature storage tank sealing, etc.

II. Special Formulations and Extreme Conditions

High-temperature enhanced fluororubber

Some special formulations can work for a short period (such as several hours) at 300°C, but they will accelerate hardening and brittleness in the long term, and the working conditions need to be strictly evaluated.

Typical applications: Aerospace engine seals, high-temperature furnace observation window seals, etc.

Perfluoro rubber (FFKM/FFPM)

As an upgraded version of fluororubber, perfluoro rubber can operate continuously at 260°C to 290°C, and has long-term resistance to 310°C high temperature, and short-term up to 360°C.

Typical applications: Semiconductor manufacturing equipment, sealing for strong corrosive chemical media, etc.

III. Impact of Temperature on Performance

High-temperature effect

The tensile strength and hardness of fluororubber decrease with increasing temperature. Below 150°C, the strength decreases slowly; between 150°C and 260°C, the decrease rate slows down; above 260°C, the material may accelerate aging.

Long-term high-temperature exposure can cause the sealing ring to harden, become brittle, and lose elasticity, requiring regular replacement.

Low-temperature effect

Fluororubber becomes harder at low temperatures, with increased tensile strength, but reduced elasticity. The general grade may lose sealing effect below -20°C, and a low-temperature formulation should be selected.

Low-temperature brittleness may cause the sealing ring to crack, and sudden force application at extremely low temperatures should be avoided.

IV. Application Suggestions

Selection principle

Choose the appropriate formulation based on the working temperature: general grade (-25°C to 250°C) for normal conditions; low-temperature type (-60°C and above) for extremely low temperatures; full-perfluoro rubber (260°C and above) for ultra-high temperatures.

Consider compatibility with media: fluororubber is resistant to oil, acids, and alkalis, but not suitable for ketones, esters, and nitro-containing mixtures.

Usage restrictions

Avoid exceeding the recommended temperature limit for a long time, as it will shorten the lifespan of the sealing ring.

Dynamic seals need to lower the temperature limit (e.g., from 250°C to 200°C) to compensate for the heat generated by friction.

The temperature range of fluororubber seals is wide, but it needs to be selected based on the specific formulation and application:

Normal operating conditions: -25℃ to 250℃ (general grade).

Extremely low temperature: -60℃ to 250℃ (low-temperature formulation).

Ultra-high temperature: 260℃ to 360℃ (perfluoro rubber).

Appropriate selection of the type can ensure that the sealing ring operates stably for a long time under extreme temperatures, avoiding the risks of leakage or failure.

FOREVER SEALS! Seals manufacturer, accept custom seals, from design to research and development, from production to testing, a full range of services. For more information, please contact FOREVER SEALS directly. FOREVER SEALS product experts are here to help you! Whatsapp: +86-18098184099；WeChat: +86-13049188460；  E-mail: sales@foreverseals.com.