With chemical processing applications, there can be no half measures when it comes to selecting the right polymer for mission-critical seals and components. Only the highest levels of reliability, durability, and chemical resistance will do to ensure safe operation and consistent performance under demanding conditions. In this article, we highlight some of our most robust chemical-resistant rubber materials at TRP Polymer Solutions and the unique qualities that make them dependable choices.
About our chemical resistance polymers at TRP
All industries dealing with harsh chemicals need to be able to depend upon custom rubber moulding components and O-rings that can confidently withstand these. As a result, choosing the right chemical resistance polymers most suitable for your application is key.
At TRP Polymer Solutions, we offer a comprehensive selection of materials for chemically resistant O-rings and components, which our highly experienced technical experts can recommend for your application and tailor to your specific needs. You can also take a look at our rubber chemical resistance guide to check which rubbers are most suitable for use with certain chemicals.
The most dependable chemical resistance polymers that we most often recommend to our customers are as follows:
- Perfluoroelastomers (FFKM)
- Fluoroelastomers (FKM)
- Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)
Perfluoroelastomers (FFKM)
Perfluoroelastomers (FFKM) offer the broadest chemical resistance of any elastomer material. This makes FFKM an excellent sealing solution for even the most demanding environments. We offer a number of high-quality grades, including several varieties of high-temperature black 75 IRHD FFKM and a white 75 IRHD for use with strong oxidising media and hot aqueous solutions.
Fluoroelastomers (FKM)
Our selection of chemical resistance polymers also includes fluoroelastomers (FKM). FKM offers greater thermal, oxidation and chemical resistance than most elastomers. Its chemically inert fluorine-carbon bonds deliver a winning combination of low-temperature performance and high chemical resistance. Not to mention excellent resistance to gas and liquid permeation, ozone, and weatherability, as well as good mechanical properties.
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)
TRP Polymer Solutions also offers polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) rubber bonded seals. A cost-effective choice for all manner of chemical processing applications, PTFE offers excellent electrical insulation and dielectric strength. It delivers optimal performance within a broad operational temperature range of -30°C to +200°C. Plus, PTFE is water-resistant, non-adhesive, extremely weatherable, and has the lowest coefficient of friction of any solid.
Contact TRP Polymer Solutions today
TRP Polymer Solutions delivers proven excellence in rubber moulding design, particularly for use in challenging chemical environments, such as for chemical processing, pharmaceutical seals, chemical transport, and many more industries. We’re passionate about delivering the highest standards of customer service. This is why we offer rapid delivery and, where lead times are critical, work closely with you and your business to ensure you receive your chemical-resistant rubber seals and components within your specified deadlines.
Our flexible custom component and O-ring production process means we can offer short lead times for both custom products and high-performance seals. Our technical team will keep you fully informed of timescales at every stage of the production process. We support all volumes of orders, from high-volume orders to single O-rings.
For specific advice regarding the best chemical-resistant rubber for your application, particularly if more than one chemical or fluid is involved, we recommend seeking professional advice. Contact TRP Polymer Solutions today, and one of our technical experts will be only too happy to discuss your chemical processing requirements and suggest an optimal solution for you. Call us on +44 (0)1432 268899 or email sales@trp.co.uk.
May 17, 2021 • 
May 17, 2021 • 
3 min read
