Compound Rubbers: Detailed Properties, Advantages, and Applications

1. FKM Compound (FKM)

Properties:

• Extreme temperature resistance (-20°C to +250°C).

• Exceptional resistance to oils, fuels, solvents, acids, and bases.

• High tensile strength (10–20 MPa), low compression set (<15% at 150°C/70h).

• Flame retardant (UL94 V-0 rating) and ozone-resistant.

Advantages:

• Pre-blended with curatives (e.g., bisphenol AF, peroxide) for efficient vulcanization.

• Retains dimensional stability in aggressive chemical environments.

• FDA-compliant grades available for food/medical contact.

Applications:

• Aerospace: Fuel system O-rings, engine seals, and diaphragms.

• Automotive: Turbocharger gaskets, transmission seals, and fuel injectors.

• Chemical: Pump linings, valve seats, and hose assemblies.

2. HNBR Compound (HNBR)

Properties:

• Heat resistance up to +150°C (intermittent +175°C).

• Superior resistance to oils, amines, and hydraulic fluids.

• High tensile strength (15–35 MPa) and fatigue resistance.

• Low permeability to gases.

Advantages:

• Pre-vulcanized for reduced processing time.

• Maintains elasticity under prolonged exposure to harsh media.

• Available in peroxide- or sulfur-cured grades.

Applications:

• Oil & Gas: Drilling packers, mud pump seals, and wellhead components.

• Automotive: Timing belts, fuel injection systems, and turbocharger hoses.

• Industrial: Hydraulic cylinder seals and gearbox components.

3. NBR Compound (NBR)

Properties:

• Moderate oil resistance (better than EPDM, less than HNBR).

• Temperature range: -40°C to +120°C.

• High abrasion resistance (ASTM D5963: 100–200 mm³ loss).

• Good resilience and compression set resistance.

Advantages:

• Cost-effective with excellent moldability.

• Customizable acrylonitrile content (18–50%) for tailored oil resistance.

Applications:

• Automotive: Fuel hoses, O-rings, and transmission seals.

• Industrial: Conveyor belts, printing rollers, and hydraulic seals.

• Consumer: Latex gloves and sports equipment.

4. EPDM Compound (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)

Properties:

• Outstanding ozone/weather resistance (5,000+ hours in QUV testing).

• Temperature range: -50°C to +150°C.

• High dielectric strength (20–30 kV/mm) and water impermeability.

• Low gas permeability.

Advantages:

• Pre-formulated with antioxidants and UV stabilizers.

• Excellent vibration damping (loss factor: 0.1–0.3).

Applications:

• Automotive: Door seals, radiator hoses, and engine mounts.

• Construction: Roofing membranes, pond liners, and window gaskets.

• Electrical: Cable insulation and power transmission belts.

5. MPU Compound (MPU)

Properties:

• High tensile strength (20–60 MPa) and elasticity (up to 800% elongation).

• Exceptional abrasion resistance (ASTM D5963: 20–50 mm³ loss).

• Temperature range: -40°C to +100°C (up to +120°C with heat stabilizers).

• Resistant to solvents and hydrolysis.

Advantages:

• Customizable hardness (Shore A 50–95).

• Available in cast, millable, or thermoplastic grades.

Applications:

• Industrial: Wheels, rollers, and conveyor belts.

• Automotive: Suspension bushings, shock absorbers, and CV joint boots.

• Medical: Catheters, orthopedic braces, and prosthetics.

6. ACM Compound (ACM)

Properties:

• Continuous heat resistance up to +150°C (intermittent +175°C).

• Excellent resistance to automatic transmission fluids (ATF), oils, and heat.

• Moderate ozone and weather resistance.

• Tensile strength: 7–15 MPa.

Advantages:

• Pre-blended with amine or peroxide curatives for fast curing.

• Maintains dimensional stability in ATF environments.

Applications:

• Automotive: Transmission seals, O-rings, and pump diaphragms.

• Power steering system components.

• Industrial: Pump seals for oil-based media.

7. AEM Compound (AEM)

Properties:

• Wide temperature range (-40°C to +150°C).

• Resistance to oils, glycols, and weathering.

• High tensile strength (10–20 MPa) and compression set resistance.

• Low permeability to gases.

Advantages:

• Balances heat resistance and flexibility.

• Resistant to hydrolysis and aging.

• Available in peroxide- or sulfur-cured grades.

Applications:

• Automotive: Radiator hoses, coolant system components, and air intake hoses.

• Industrial: Conveyor belts for chemical handling and pump diaphragms.

• HVAC: Duct gaskets and vibration isolators.