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FKM Rubber Gaskets (Viton / Fluoroelastomer)

Viton fluoroelastomer flat gaskets for high temperature, aggressive fuels and chemical flanges.

Overview

FKM rubber gaskets — sold under the Viton trade name and also called fluoroelastomer gaskets — are specified when a flat static joint must survive high temperature, aggressive chemicals, or aromatic fuels that would degrade NBR or EPDM. The high fluorine content gives FKM outstanding resistance to oils, fuels, hydraulic fluids and a broad range of chemicals, together with continuous service up to +200°C. FKM flat gaskets are common in chemical processing, aerospace fuel systems, automotive turbo and fuel-injector flanges, and hot oil circuits. Standard hardness is 70–90 Shore A. Lower-fluorine grades are more economical; high-fluorine and specialty grades (e.g., GBL-type) extend steam, base and amine resistance but at higher cost. FKM is not recommended for steam, hot concentrated alkalis, or ketones. In those cases, AFLAS, EPDM or FFKM may be more appropriate. PTFE should be considered when universal chemical resistance is needed and the joint can tolerate a non-elastic seal. We supply FKM gaskets as die-cut parts, waterjet prototypes, and sheet stock. Send flange drawing or ID/OD/thickness, hardness, compound grade and operating fluid for a quote. FKM gaskets are single-use and should be replaced after disassembly.

Types

Standard FKM Gaskets

General-purpose 66% fluorine FKM for oil, fuel and moderate chemical service.

Best for: Hydraulic manifolds, fuel flanges, industrial oil systems

High-Fluorine Viton Gaskets

Higher fluorine content for improved chemical and solvent resistance.

Best for: Aggressive chemicals, aromatic fuels, aerospace systems

High-Temperature FKM Gaskets

Compounds stabilized for continuous +200°C and short excursions above.

Best for: Turbochargers, exhaust flanges, hot oil circuits

Materials

MaterialPropertiesBest For
FKM 75 Shore A (Standard)Oil, fuel and chemical resistance; −20°C to +200°CGeneral high-temp chemical and fuel flanges
FKM 90 Shore AHigh hardness for bolt-load retention and extrusion resistanceHigh-pressure chemical flanges, confined grooves
GBL-Type FKMImproved base and amine resistance compared with standard FKMAutomotive biofuels, amine-containing fluids

Sizing

FKM gaskets are cut to drawing or supplied as sheet stock. Thicknesses from 1/32 in to 1/4 in.

Thicknesses

  • 1/32"
  • 1/16"
  • 3/32"
  • 1/8"
  • 3/16"
  • 1/4"
  • Custom

Colors

  • Black
  • Brown
  • Green

Applications

Chemical Processing

Reactor flanges, valve bonnets, pump housings handling solvents and acids

Automotive

Fuel injector flanges, turbo oil lines, transmission covers

Aerospace

Fuel system flanges, hydraulic reservoirs, engine accessories

Oil & Gas

Hot oil skids, aggressive fuel systems, wellhead instrument flanges

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Viton the same as FKM?

Viton is the Chemours trade name for fluoroelastomer; FKM is the generic ISO/ASTM designation. All Viton compounds are FKM, but other manufacturers also produce FKM under different brand names.

What is the maximum temperature for FKM rubber gaskets?

Standard FKM gaskets operate continuously to +200°C, with short excursions to +225°C depending on compound. For higher temperatures, consider FFKM or PTFE.

Can FKM gaskets handle steam?

Standard FKM is not recommended for steam or hot concentrated alkalis. Use EPDM for steam, AFLAS for steam and amines, or FFKM for extreme combinations.

Are FKM gaskets resistant to aromatic fuels?

Yes. FKM has excellent resistance to aromatic hydrocarbons, alcohol-extended fuels and many aggressive chemicals that swell NBR.

When should I upgrade from NBR to FKM gasket?

Upgrade when continuous temperature exceeds +120°C, the fluid contains high aromatic content, or chemical attack is causing NBR to swell or harden.