What does Perlast® FFKM mean for reliability in critical industries?
Seals are an often overlooked element of a reliable process line. For all kinds of industries, a correctly specified sealing solution can be the difference between uninterrupted production and equipment failure. Perlast® FFKM is a suite of perfluoroelastomer materials which has been engineered specifically to seal in challenging environments where other materials might fail.
There are several key reasons why industry leaders around the world are turning to Perlast® FFKM material grades to improve their operational reliability.
- Universal chemical resistance
As effectively a rubber form of PTFE, Perlast® FFKM is chemically inert. Across acids, amines and solvents, process media and intensive chemical (CIP) and steam (SIP) sterilisation routines, Perlast® FFKM grades are proven to retain exceptional sealing performance without contamination risk through material degradation. This seal durability helps to keep unscheduled maintenance, repair and overhaul windows to an absolute minimum.
- Outstanding thermal stability
The molecular structure of Perlast® FFKM is responsible for unrivalled stability in extreme temperatures. Perlast® FFKM can withstand operating temperatures of up to 327°C (620°F) – with specific grades also developed for cryogenic use, retaining sealing effect down to -46°C (-51°F). This level of seal performance keeps productivity high, and running costs low.
- Mechanical strength
The low compression set of Perlast® FFKM means that across both static and dynamic applications, Perlast® FFKM seals can be specified within fast-paced process lines that cannot be undermined by material weakness and unreliability. It is the seal material to use when mechanical failure is simply not an option.
- Full regulatory compliance
Perlast® FFKM is certified compliant to important standards across several industries, including food, dairy and pharmaceuticals (FDA, 3-A Sanitary Standards and USP), and energy (NORSOK M710, NACE, ISO23936, and ISO10423). This combines long term reliable sealing performance with the peace of mind that customers and consumers are being kept as safe as possible.
A much faster response
The availability of Perlast® FFKM has emerged as a significant factor in recent months. This year has seen a severe industry-wide shortage of FFKM ingredients which has impacted the ability to manufacture high performance sealing materials. As a result of this supply complexity, lead times for major manufacturers and prominent FFKM brands have sky-rocketed. However, intelligent supply chain management has allowed Precision Polymer Engineering to remain unaffected by these difficulties. As a result, Perlast® FFKM O-rings can be manufactured to order in as little as a month – up to six times quicker than some competitor grades.
Upgrading to Perlast® FFKM
Upgrading the reliability of your equipment and process lines with Perlast® FFKM is not as difficult as you might think. PPE’s team of specialist sealing engineers have a deep understanding of the challenges in specifying and implementing a new sealing material, and can assist in ensuring a seamless transition. Arrange an initial consultation with a Perlast® specialist at www.perlast.com, or take a look at our videos and resources to explore the benefits of using Perlast® FFKM.
Contact details:
Precision Polymer Engineering
01254 295400
prepol.sales@prepol.com
www.perlast.com
