FKM and FPM Elastomer

Fluorine Kautschuk Material (FKM) is related to fluorocarbon-based elastomer materials defined by ASTM International standard D1418 and ISO standard 1629. FKM polymer is made from vinylidene monomers (VDF) with a high concentration of fluorine and carbon-based monomers. It is commonly called fluorine rubber or fluoro-rubber. FKM and FPM are interchangeable abbreviations that often refer to the same family of fluorocarbon-based materials. In some countries, FPM is a more commonly used abbreviation. At ERIKS, we give priority to the ISO abbreviation: FKM.

Fluorocarbon elastomers have grown to major importance in the sealing industry. Due to its wide range of chemical compatibility, temperature range, low compression set, and excellent ageing characteristics, fluorocarbon rubber is one of the most significant single elastomers developed in recent history. 

FKM and the Viton™ brand

FKM was originally developed by DuPont and Chemours under the brand name Viton™. Now several FKM manufactures exist, and some have their own brand names: Dai-El (Daikin), and Tecnoflon (Solvay). People often ask for ‘’viton’’, when they are specifically looking for the Viton™ brand. Dyneon®/Fluorel® (3M) is also a well known fluoroelastomer, but will be retracted from the market by 2025.

If you are looking for fluorine rubber materials for use in high-tech industries where low outgassing and low particle emissions of the materials are required, for example in the optics or semicon industries, then have a look at our SCVBR® offering.