Fluorosilicone
Introduction
Fluorosilicone rubber, FVMQ, is a synthetic elastomer that combines the chemical resistance of fluorocarbons with the high-temperature stability and low compression set of silicone rubber. It is a specialty elastomer used primarily in applications that require resistance to fuels, oils, solvents, and other aggressive fluids, as well as high temperatures.
Fluorosilicone rubber is created by introducing fluorine into a silicone rubber polymer through a chemical reaction. This results in a material that has improved chemical resistance compared to traditional silicone rubber, especially when exposed to hydrocarbons such as jet fuel and hydraulic fluids. Fluorosilicone rubber is often used in aerospace, automotive, and oil and gas industries, as well as in certain medical and food processing applications.
Molding Fluorosilicone
Fluorosilicone rubber parts can be molded using several different techniques, depending on the complexity of the part and the quantity needed. Here are a few common methods:
- Compression molding: This involves placing a pre-measured amount of fluorosilicone rubber material into a heated mold cavity, then compressing it with a press until it takes the shape of the mold. The material is then allowed to cool and harden before being removed from the mold.
- Transfer molding: Similar to compression molding, transfer molding involves heating the fluorosilicone material and placing it into a heated chamber, where it is then forced into a mold cavity using a plunger.
- Injection molding: This method involves heating the fluorosilicone material and injecting it into a mold cavity under high pressure. The material then solidifies; creating a part, and is ejected from the mold.
- Liquid silicone rubber (LSR) injection molding: LSR injection molding is a variation of injection molding that involves heating a two-part fluorosilicone material (a base material and a catalyst) and injecting it into a mold cavity. The material then cures in the mold to create the desired part.
Cryogenic Deflashing
Fluorosilicone parts can be cryogenically deflashed, which is a process used to remove excess flash or mold flash from molded rubber parts. Cryogenic deflashing involves using gaseous nitrogen to rapidly freeze the parts, then tumble them while blasting them with a cryogenic grade polycarbonate media. The combination of the freezing, media blasting and tumbling process causes the excess mold flashing to break off, leaving a clean, smooth surface on the part.
Cryogenic deflashing is a popular method for removing flash from fluorosilicone parts because it is a gentle process that does not damage the parts or alter their dimensions. Additionally, it is an efficient and effective way to remove flash from complex parts with intricate details and hard-to-reach areas.
It’s important to note that cryogenic deflashing is not suitable for all types of rubber parts, and the process parameters must be carefully controlled to prevent damage to the parts. Therefore, it’s recommended to consult with a qualified cryogenic deflashing provider such as Nitrofreeze Cryogenic Solutions before attempting to deflash fluorosilicone parts using this method.
Want to send in your fluorosilicone parts for a no-cost proof of concept? Contact us at (508) 459-7447×105 or email us at info@nitrofreeze.com to learn more.