Fluoroelastomer (FKM) is a mixture of synthetic rubber and fluoropolymer elastomer often utilised for manufacturing O-rings, fuel system seals and hoses and a wide array of moulded and extruded goods. It is also commonly regarded as Viton® and was originally trademarked by DuPont (now the Chemours Company). It is one of the most durable and highest-performing rubbers on the market.
Key features & benefits of Fluoroelastomer expansion joints
- Chemical Resistance: These expansion joints have outstanding resistance to chemicals. This makes them an ideal choice for chemical processing units and similar critical applications.
- High Heat Tolerance: Fluoroelastomer expansion joints are able to withstand temperatures as high as 400°F (204°C). They can be used for systems exposed to extreme heat, such as power plants and industrial furnaces.
- Durability: They usually have a longer life span and require less maintenance than other types of expansion joints. It tends to reduce the frequency of replacements and downtime. Additionally, these fluoroelastomers can retain these properties over a wide temperature range. This makes them a suitable choice for diverse industries, especially power utility and energy flue duct expansion joints and bellows.
- Resistance to Compression Set: Vitom expansion joints are highly elastic joints able to withstand prolonged pressure. These joints provide performance over a long period of time
- Diverse applications – Viton expansion joints are capable of performing in some of the harshest environments. As a result, it can be used in most critical industrial applications that require withstanding extremely corrosive conditions and high temperatures. Fluoroelastomer expansion joints are commonly used in aerospace, automotive, industrial machinery, consumer electronics, chemical processing, and oil and gas industries.
- Meets strict industrial standards- Viton expansion joints are widely used in diverse industries as they strictly comply with industry standards.
Many of these expansion joints are capable of working in harsh environments that might include excessive pressure and temperature or exposure to corrosive chemicals and the elements. Special Viton™ fluoroelastomer grades are uniquely formulated to impart additional properties, which include resistance to:
- Weather
- Ozone and sunlight
- Heat
- Oil and gas
- Acidic flue gas components
- Chemicals
Limitations & Disadvantages
- High Price: Many believe that these are costly than other options. It is usually more expensive than NBR, neoprene, EPDM, and other standard elastomers. However, most good manufacturers can offer custom solutions at competitive prices.
- Poor Low-Temperature Flexibility: Viton expansion joints perform great in high-temperature situations, but the quality of their performance is reduced in colder situations. These joints have poor flexibility below -20°F, and hence speciality low-temp grades are used for cold environments
- Steam & Hot Water Incompatibility: These expansion joints are not suitable for steam or hot water applications
- Adhesion Challenges: It is difficult to bond without specialised primers or surface treatments
A properly designed and engineered expansion joint made with Viton™ fluoroelastomers retains its properties over a long period of time. This, in turn, reduces the need for repair and maintenance. While expansion joints can be made from many types of rubber, expansion joints made with Viton™ high-performance fluoroelastomers ensure great performance for the most demanding applications.
Best Applications for Viton Expansion Joints
- Chemical Processing: It is ideal for environments with aggressive chemicals and high temperatures.
- Power Plants: It ensures reliability in high-heat piping systems.
- HVAC Systems: it provides excellent durability and resistance to vibration in heating and cooling systems.
- Petrochemical Facilities: It handles exposure to hydrocarbons and other corrosive agents with ease.
Things to consider before selecting Viton Expansion Joint
- Range of temperature: Your chosen expansion joint must align with your system’s operational conditions.
- Chemical Compatibility: It should be resistant to the specific chemicals in your application.
- Cost and durability: Evaluate whether the higher initial investment aligns with your long-term maintenance goals.
- Dimensions: Determine the joint’s dimensions and flexibility reconcile with your system design
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Proper installation and regular maintenance are crucial for optimising the operation and maximising the lifespan of your Viton expansion joints. Here are some tips:
- Inspect Regularly: inspect your expansion joints regularly for signs of wear, such as cracks or loss of flexibility.
- Use Proper Tools: Make sure the expansion joints are installed using the correct equipment to prevent damage.
- Avoid Over-Tightening: Avoid over-tightening clamps or bolts, as it can reduce flexibility and lifespan.
- Partner with Experts: Partner with a trusted supplier like AFS joints to ensure quality installation and maintenance support.
Like any other manufacturing material, there is no one-size-fits-all expansion joint for all applications. At Advanced Flexible Systems., we thoroughly evaluate each part’s applications and working conditions and research many available materials to choose the right material. You can count on us to get custom solutions for fluoropolymer expansion joints, multi-layered expansion joints, ducting expansion joints, flue ducting expansion joints, flue gas expansion joints and more. Reach out to our team today for expertly crafted expansion joint solutions.
