Testing and Interpretation of Test Results Glossary of Material Codes

Glossary of material codes
4. Testing and Interpretation of Test Results

Highly elastic materials are distinguished from other materials not simply
by the fact that they are "elastic". The properties are different in many
respects. The usual terminologies from materials testing such as
hardness and tensile strength have to be interpreted differently by the
engineer. New terms such as ageing resistance or deformation speed
appear. There are hardly any constants; the majority of properties are
greatly affected by temperature and other aspects, many are even
dependent on the size and structure of the relevant test specimens or
moulded parts.
Still, there are a large number of synthetic rubbers. And these have a
larger number of variations in the material composition. The ability to
combine the materials properties is however limited. As an example, with
NBR it is not possible to combine high oil resistance with optimum low
temperature behaviour.
A range of material properties are interlinked due to chemical and
physical factors. If one property is changed, then other properties
inevitably change as well. This can be an advantage for the respective
application, but can also be a disadvantage.
Taking this aspect into consideration, unnecessary requirements should
not be placed on the material when drawing up the specifications. This
approach smoothes the way to a material to suit the application.
4.1 Physical properties

Hardness
The parameter most frequently used to characterise highly elastic

materials is hardness. Testing is performed using test equipment to Shore
A or D and IRHD. The highly elastic materials from Simrit are usually to be
tested to Shore A.
In the test laboratory the measurements are performed as per the
conditions defined in DIN 53 505. Hardness according to Shore can also
be measured with a handheld device. However, measurement
uncertainties can often not be excluded here.
In many cases, however, useable relative or comparable values are
produced if the standards are observed, and the following are adherred
to during measurement:
Insufficient sample thickness results in excessively high measured
Conversely, measurements too close to the edge, e.g. on excessively

values.
The same applies for excessively high contact pressure.

The test specimens should be as flat as possible, not lie over a cavity.
small moulded parts, produced excessively low values.
Always keep the sample and the measuring instrument parallel and
observe the time for taking readings accurately..
Another method for performing measurements in the test laboratory is to

determine the international rubber hardness degrees (IRHD; DIN ISO 48)
by measurement of the penetration depth of a defined sphere under a
defined force. With highly elastic materials the IRHD value corresponds
approximately to the Shore A hardness. For materials that have a
tendency to plastic deformation, the measured values (determined from
the two methods) can vary significantly.
A variant of this method, exists, with correspondingly reduced sphere
diameter(0,4 mm) which permits small and thin samples to be measured
(so-called micro-hardness, DIN ISO 48 Method M).
It is therefore frequently used for measuring finished items. With this
method there are differences due to the specimen surface (un-evenness,
e.g. due to grinding, surface hardening, or friction coefficient), which can
lead to even greater differences in the values.
Measured values determined on the finished items often do not
correspond to the values measured on standard test specimens.
For hardness information, the measurement methods used must always

be stated, e.g. hardness 80 Shore A or hardness 72 IRHD. For hardness
testing on finished items, the method is to be discussed in detail between
customer and supplier in the specific cases to avoid inconsistencies.
5 hardness grades are generally defined as the tolerance for hardness
measurements and hardness figures. This relatively large range is
necessary to take into account the differences between different
instruments and testers as well as the inevitable production scatter.
Tensile stress and modulus of elasticity
Like hardness, tensile stress and modulus of elasticity are also

parameters for the ability of elastic materials to deform.
The tensile stress determined at 100 or 300% elongation in tensile trials
as per DIN 53 504 is defined as the force necessary for the related
deformation divided by the original cross-section of the test specimen.
The tensile stress is often wrongly called a "modulus". The modulus of
elasticity or elongation modulus is the tensile stress divided by the relative
longitudinal change (elongation). It is not a constant for highly elastic
materials.
Hook's law = E , according to which the stress is proportional to the
elongation , where the modulus of elasticity E represents the constant of
proportionality; applies to rubber only in a restricted deformation region
that can be different from material to material. The modulus of elasticity
can both increase as well as decrease with elongation Diagram 20.1.
The modulus of elasticity is dependent on the so-called form factor, the
relationship of a loaded to a free surface on the part or test specimen.
Here the loaded surface is taken to be under a tensile or compression
load (without mating face) and the free area, the total of all areas at which
the specimen is free to elongate or compress. Both areas are to be
measured in the unloaded state. Thus the form factor F for an axially
loaded cylinder is
F = d/4h (d = diameter, h = height).
Other moduli
Other moduli are of significance for the deformation characteristics.

Shear modulus or modulus of elasticity in shear and dynamic moduli are
important for vibration processes. They are not specified in more detail
here.
Test procedures are defined, e.g., in DIN 53 513, DIN 53 445 and
ASTM 945 (YERZLEY testing).
Relationships between deformation properties and

their parameters
Based on the statements made above, only an approximate relationship

can be expected between the individual measured parameters.
For shear modulus G and modulus of elasticity E, for highly elastic
materials the following applies approximately
G = 1/3 E.
Between the hardness in Shore A or IRHD and the modulus of elasticity at
510% compression set there is an approximate relationship that is
shown graphically in Diagram 20.3.
The hardness, however, has no general correlation with the moduli for
larger deformations, even if in general a material possesses higher moduli
with greater hardness.
A common feature of all deformation properties is that they are heavily
dependent on temperature and time. Time-dependency means that the
speed of deformation (e.g. withdrawal velocity in tensile testing or the
frequency for the dynamic modulus) or the time when the measured value
is taken (e.g. for hardness measuring) affect measured values.
"The" modulus of elasticity of a highly elastic material, as is occasionally
requested, therefore does not exist!
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100
Modulus of elasticity
dN
mm 2
75
EPDM
high filler content
50
25
NR
low filler content
100
200
300
400
500
Elongation %
Diagram 20.1 Dependency of the modulus of elasticity on deformation (tensile test) for two different vulcanisation processes
Tensile strength and elongation at break

These values are only of limited use for assessing possible applications
and service life of parts made of elastomers, as they are only subjected to
stresses or elongation that lie in the order of magnitude of the fracture
values for the material in exceptional cases. Thus, on diaphragms very
high values can be reached near the clamping flange that can then lead
to premature failure. In instances of this type, as explained at the
beginning of this section, the solution of the problem is not only to be
sought in the material, but also in the design.
The values for tensile strength and elongation at break determined in
accordance with DIN 53 504 are utilised for characterising material
comparisons, for identification and inspection as well as for determining
resistance against destructive influences (aggressive media, ageing).
Resistance to tear propagation
component is comparable to both, where the elastic portion

predominates in the case of highly elastic materials. A key feature of
viscous-elastic behaviour is that the original state is not reached
immediately after removal of the load, but is only attained gradually
according to conditions. The viscous elasticity is the actual cause of the
specific physical behaviour of the highly elastic materials.
Typical viscous-elastic features are compression set, stress relaxation and
creep (Diagram 20.5 and Diagram 20.7).
Other physical properties
For special applications, other physical properties such as thermal

expansion, friction behaviour, electrical properties and permeability to
gases or liquids, amongst others, can be of significance. These issues
will not be covered in further detail here.
Additional information is obtained by testing the resistance to tear

propagation in accordance with DIN 53 507 and ISO 34-1 as the force
that a defined specimen produces to oppose tear propagation compared
to the sample thickness. The values found here serve as a measure of the
sensitivity of elastomers to tear propagation at cuts and cracks, and do
not need to be given in parallel with tensile strength. As the results of
resistance to tear propagation depend heavily on the special testing
conditions and particularly on the specimen shape, the ranges found on
laboratory specimens for the related test methods or found in practice do
not need to match. The statement of the test procedure and specimen
type with the measured value is imperative, e.g. resistance to tear
propagation in accordance with DIN 53 507, test specimen B or other
resistance to tear propagation in accordance with DIN 53 515, shaped
angled sample.
400
Shore A 80
300
70
Elasticity and damping
200
The mechanical damping is the reciprocal property of the elasticity. It can

be determined using the methods given for the measurement of the
dynamic modulus.
A body is elastic when it returns to its original shape again immediately
after a forced deformation (e.g. steel spring). A body that retains its
deformation is plastic or viscous (e.g. kneaded rubber). A viscous-elastic
60
dN
mm 2
The elasticity is, as for ability to deform, dependent on temperature and

above all on the sequence of the deformation process over time.
The testing of impact elasticity for sealing components in accordance DIN
53 512 states little about the elastic behaviour under operating conditions.
It is therefore frequently more sensible to determine the return deflection
or the lasting deformation under trial conditions selected in accordance
with the operating conditions.
100
45
0,5
1,0
1,5
Form factor
Diagram 20.2 Dependency of the modulus of elasticity on the
form factor (20% compression set) for differing hardness
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2000
1000
500
dN
mm 2
200
100
50
20
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
Hardness in Shore A
Diagram 20.3 Relationship between hardness in Shore A and modulus of elasticity at approx. 10% compression set (form factor 0,2)
Temperature behaviour
As already mentioned several times, temperature has a significant effect
on the physical properties of highly elastic materials. Diagram 20.4
shows the dependence of the dynamic shear modulus G (shear modulus
measured in torsion vibration test in accordance with DIN 53 445) on
temperature. From right to left the highly elastic region can be seen with
an almost constant modulus; following this is the transition region with a
steep gradient, and finally there is the glass state region in which the
rubber is hard and brittle, again with an almost constant modulus.
The low temperature brittleness disappears again as the temperature is
raised; the freezing process is thus reversible. The transition from the
highly elastic to the glass state region is especially important since in
many cases it marks the low temperature limit. This transition, as can be
seen in Diagram 20.4, is not sharp but extends over a specific region.
The transition region from the highly elastic to the glass state is
characterised by the glass transition temperature T (temperature of the
maximum of the logarithmic damping decrement ). This value can
however only represent a rough recommended value for the materials low
temperature limit, as the type of load is very important in the practical use
of an elastomeric component. The same material with sudden loading
and very high deformation speed will reach its load limit at a much higher
temperature than, e.g., during slow elongation. While with the aid of the
torsion vibration trial a differentiation can be made between materials, the
temperature limit in practice is to be tested using the appropriate
components in the function.
Example:
On contact seals, heat is produced by the friction that occurs during

motion. At temperatures where there already exists the risk of hardening
due to freezing, the friction heat can suffice to keep the seal elastic, or
quickly place the seal in a functional operating state after the start of the
motion. The testing of the cold behaviour is therefore only sensible in the
form of a material comparison in conjunction with experience of the
engineering application. The differences between the various materials for
low temperature limits, determined from torsion vibration testing on the
one hand, and from practical trials on the other, in many instances
correspond. If the (frequently very costly to determine) cold limit has been
determined for a material in a practical trial, then a reliable prediction of
the low temperature behaviour of other materials in the practical
application can be made with the aid of the T-values for the materials.
but also from 30 to 40 degrees between the differing test methods.

Details on the measurement methods used must always be stated with
information on the general low temperature figures. The same as
described above applies to the transition to the component behaviour in
practice. Various common laboratory methods for characterising low
temperature behaviour are briefly described in the following:
Temperature retraction test
In this test (ASTM D 1329-79) a rod-shaped rubber specimen in an

elongated state is frozen in a temperature controlled bath and the
temperature TR 10, TR 30, .... at which the elongation of the specimen has
reduced by 10, 30, ... percent measured.
Cold brittleness temperature with impact load
The cold brittleness temperature TS (DIN 53 546) is termed as the

approximate temperature at which (after increasing the temperature of the
surrounding cooling liquid) all specimens no longer break under a defined
impact load.
In addition, information on the low temperature behaviour can also be
gained from tests that are relatively straightforward to perform.
Examples are the cold bending test using a mandrel with defined bending
speed, or the Shore hardness measurement at different temperatures.
The general low temperature figure can be defined as, e.g., the
temperature at which the Shore A hardness is 90 points. The curve of the
compression set at low temperatures also provides information on a
materials low temperature flexibility. A general low temperature figure can,
for example, be defined as the temperature at which the compression set
takes on a specific value, e.g. 50%.
4.2 Resistance of materials
The changes that highly elastic materials experience due to the effects of
the environment and/or operating conditions are often of even greater
significance than the initial values for the technological properties.
The behaviour of the materials must therefore be checked in conditions
similar to practice.
For the comparison of general low temperature figures, as has been

agreed as per other laboratory test methods, considerations similar to
those for the comparison between the low temperature limit determined in
practical trials and the glass transition temperature measured in torsion
vibration trials apply. Here deviations of only a few degrees may be found,
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Swelling and chemical attack

The testing of behaviour against fluids, steam and gases is performed as
per DIN 53 521 in the medium to be used in the application, or in
standardised testing fluids (e.g. ASTM oil No. 1, IRM 902* and IRM
903**, ASTM reference fuel A, B, C, FAM test fuels).
Frequently, consideration of chemical resistance and of swelling

behaviour is decisive for the correct selection of a suitable material when
using seals. It must therefore always be known with which fluid or
gaseous media the material will come into contact. Naturally, the
temperatures of the media are very important.
* replacement product for ASTM oil No. 2
The consequences of a chemical effect are, similar to hot air, ageing,

softening or hardening, loss of strength, elongation at break and elasticity,
loss of stress or creep. In addition there is a volume change due to
swelling or shrinkage, depending on whether the absorption of additional
substances or the removal of extractable substances dominates.
** replacement product for ASTM oil No. 3
VAI = Volume change index

VG 100 = percentage volume change of the SIMRIT material
VG100
30
28
26
24
22
20
18
72
R8
NB BR 101
2
7 88 N
16
14
12
10
925
94 AU
8
6
4
83 FKM 575
2
2
10
12
14
16
18
20
22
24
26
28
30 VAI
Diagram 20.5 Swelling behaviour of materials
Heat resistance C
250
FFKM, FKM
MQ, VMQ
PVMQ, PMQ
225
FVMQ
200
AEM
175
EPDM
ACM
150
HNBR
CSM
125
IIR
100
CO
NBR
CR
SBR
70
NR
Class
170
B
120
C
100
D
80
E
60
F
40
G
20
H
Oil resistance
10
K
Vol.
change
(%)
Diagram 20.6 Heat and oil resistance (in ASTM Oil No. 3) of elastomers (as per ASTM D 2000)
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/
1,2
+100C
1,0
+110C
0,8
0,6
+120C
0,4
0,2
10-1
100
101
102
103
Time [h]
Diagram 20.7 Compression stress relaxation in an elastomeric material at various temperatures
Volumetric change index

The regularity of the swelling effect of mineral oils on highly elastic
materials can be tested on standard reference elastomers. This type of
NBR standard reference elastomer (SRE) has already been proposed as
test material NBR 1 and is also standardised as per DIN 53 538.
The volumetric change determined on this SRE in any mineral oil, under
standard conditions, is called the volumetric change index (VAI) of the oil
teste, as per a VDMA proposal.
If a rubber material is swollen up to its saturation state in any oils, there is
a linear relationship between the volumetric change determined on the
elastomer in these oils and the volumetric change determined on the
standard reference elastomer (SRE) in the same oils under the same
conditions, i.e. the VAI of these oils. If the maximum volumetric change of
any elastomer in various oils is plotted on a coordinate system against
the VAI values for these oils, then a straight line is obtained that
characterises the swelling behaviour (QVH) of this elastomer. A straight
QVH line can be determined in this way for each elastomeric material.
From these straight lines the maximum volumetric change of the related
elastomer can be predicted for all oils with known VAI. These QVH
straight lines have already been determined for all materials from Simrit.
Using this diagram, materials being considered for the respective
applications can be combined with the suitable oils. The volumetric
change index (VAI) is not stated by the oil manufacturers.
Example: in a mineral oil with VAI 15, the following volumetric change
values are found:
Materials from Simrit
Volumetric change
83 FKM 575
1%
94 AU 925
6%
88 NBR 101
10%
72 NBR 872
15%
By placing specimens in a heated cupboard (DIN 53 508), it is possible to

measure ageing over a shorter test period. However, test temperature and
actual operating temperature must not differ significantly.
Changes in hardness, tensile strength and elongation of break as well as
in the compression set or stress relaxation are mostly used to assess
ageing behaviour.
The familiar crack formation on elongated rubber parts exposed to the
weather is primarily caused by the ozone present in air. The procedures
for testing ozone resistance are specified in DIN 53 509
Static constant load and constant deformation
If a part made of highly elastic material is constantly deformed for a

period, then after relaxation, a certain deformation will remain. This is
determined in the pressure test in accordance with DIN ISO 815 and
given as a percentage of the original deformation.
This residual deformation is called compression set.
The compression set is heavily dependent on temperature and duration of
the deformation. At lower temperatures the effect of viscous elasticity
predominates, at higher temperatures, the ageing effect. (more
information Explanation of DIN ISO 815).
The compression set can be related in specific cases to the function of
sealing components, e.g. for O-rings.
The flow behaviour, the vulcanisation state and the heat resistance affect
the test value. As a result the measurement of compression stress
relaxation is more suitable (DIN 53 537), since it gives a more direct
measurement for the timed removal of initial contact pressure on a
constantly deformed seal.
If elastic parts, instead of constant deformation, are subject to constant
load, then the distortion increases with time. Here the term creep is used.
If the test temperatures for the base polymer are below the maximum
permissible continuous operating temperature, compression stress
relaxation and creep follow an approximately logarithmic time law, i.e. they
come, seen from a practical point of view, to a stop after some time.
Heat resistance, ageing behaviour

As with all organic-chemical products, highly elastic materials based on
polymers can also be changed by the action of oxygen, water and/or
other media. Important properties such as hardness, elongation and
elasticity can be worsened as a result of these processes, termed ageing.
The material can then become susceptible to cracking, and then fracture.
Heat accelerates the ageing processes. Also exposure to light and
radiation can have a destructive effect. The higher the temperature, the
lower the service life of the part. This results in different permissible
maximum operating temperatures for brief loads and for continuous loads
for individual materials. The respective limits depend predominantly on
the base polymer.
Dynamic loading, fatigue and service life
Far more frequent than exceeding the stiffness or elongation limit once, is
destruction of rubber parts by dynamic loading. On continually repeating
deformation, the material is damaged due to internal friction resulting
initially in small cracks that grow and finally lead to fracture.
Standard methods for test conditions are defined, e.g., in
DIN 53 522 and 53 533.
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Resistance to wear
Thermal applications
This important property for friction loading is also heavily dependent on

the operating conditions, such as the type of lubrication, material and
roughness of the mating surface, running speed, slip, contact pressure
and temperature.
Depending on composition of compound between 30 C and +100 C,

short term to 130 C; material hardens when temperatures are higher.
Low temperature flexibility reaches 55 C using special compounds.
Wear tests should therefore only be performed with the finished product
and in conditions as close as possible to practice.
5. Properties of Seal Materials
The properties of a material are primarily determined by the base polymer

for the material. However they can vary widely depending on the
compound composition and in this way can be matched to the related
purpose.
In the following, the characteristic properties and the resulting main areas
of use of the materials from Simrit are outlined. For more detailed
differences between individual materials you are referred to the material
tables.
5.1 General material descriptions
Carboxylated nitrile rubber (XNBR)
are terpolymers or blends of butadiene, acrylonitrile and methacryl acid.

The main properties are similar to the NBR polymers, however they have
improved wear behaviour in dynamic seal applications. The low
temperature flexibility is limited compared to other NBR types.
approx. 25 C to +100 C (+130 C also briefly).
Hydrogenated acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (HNBR)

is obtained from normal NBR polymers by full or partial hydration of the
double-bonded butadiene components.
In this way the heat and oxidation stability increases with peroxide
cross-linking.
5.1.1 Elastomeric materials
The materials produced feature high mechanical strength and improved

abrasion resistance. Media resistance same as NBR.
Acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR)

is a polymer made of butadiene and acrylonitrile. The acrylonitrile portion
can be between 18 and 50% and affects the following properties of the
related NBR seal materials produced from the polymer:
resistance to swelling in mineral oils, greases and fuels
approx. 30 C to +150 C.
Acrylate rubber (ACM)

is a polymer made out of ethylene acrylate or butyl acrylate with a small
amount of a monomer required for cross-linking.
elasticity
low temperature flexibility
gas permeability
compression set
Thus an NBR material with 18% ACN content has very good low
temperature flexibility down to approx. 38 C with moderate oil and fuel
resistance, An NBR material with 50% ACN content has optimum oil and
fuel resistance, but on the other hand has a low temperature flexibility
only down to approx. 3 C. Elasticity and gas permeability decrease with
rising ACN content and the compression set worsens.
Materials from Simrit based on this synthetic rubber are, due to their good
technological properties, suitable for a large number of applications.
In particular, the proven Simmerrings, sealing components for hydraulics
and pneumatics as well as O-rings are produced in large numbers from
materials based on NBR. Across the world Freudenberg has the most
far-reaching experience of all seal manufacturers on the use of this base
elastomer.
Good swelling resistance in
Elastomers based on ACM are more heat resistant than those based on
NBR or CR. Simmerrings, O-rings and moulded parts made of materials
based on ACM are used in the higher temperature range and in oils with
additives for which the NBR materials from Simrit are no longer adequate.
However materials based on fluoro elastomer and silicone rubber are not
yet necessary.
Ageing resistance and ozone resistance are very good.
mineral oils (engine oils, transmission oils, ATF oils), also with additives.
Heavy swelling in
aromatic and chlorinated hydro-carbons, alcohols, brake fluid of a glycol

ether base, flame retardant hydraulic fluids. Hot water, steam, acids,
alkalis and amines damage the material.
Approx. 25 C to +150 C.
aliphatic hydro-carbons, e.g. propane, butane, petrol, mineral oils

(lubricating oils, hydraulic oils of groups H, H-L and H-LP) and grease
with a mineral oil base, fire retardant hydraulic fluids of groups HFA, HFB
and HFC, vegetable and animal oils and fats, light heating oil and diesel
fuel. Some materials are particularly resistant in:
hot water up to a temperature of +100 C (sanitary valves), inorganic
acids and bases without excessively high concentration or temperature.
Medium swelling resistance in
Ethylene acrylate rubber (AEM)

is a polymer made of ethylene methyl acrylate with carboxyl groups.
Ethylene acrylate rubber is more heat resistant than ACM and has
properties between those of ACM and FKM.
mineral oils of a paraffin base and with additives, water and cooling fluids.
fuels with high aromatic content (high grade fuel).
Good weathering resistance and ozone resistance.
aromatic hydro-carbons, e.g. benzene, chlorinated hydro-carbons, e.g.

trichloroethylene, fire retardant hydraulic fluids of group HFD, esters, polar
solvents as well as brake fluids of a glycol ether base.
ATF and transmission oils, richly aromatic mineral oils, brake fluid of a
glycol ether base, concentrated acids and phtal acid esters.
Heavy swelling in
Heavy swelling in
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Silicone rubbers
Vinyl-methyl polysiloxane (VMQ)
Phenyl-vinyl-methyl polysiloxane (PVMQ)
mineral oils and greases (also with the majority of additives), fuels and
aliphatic as well as aromatic hydro-carbons, some fire retardant hydraulic
liquids and synthetic aviation engine oils.
are high polymer organosiloxanes that feature high thermal resistance,

good low temperature flexibility, good dielectric properties, very good
resistance to attack from oxygen and ozone and low temperature
dependency of the technological properties. Permeability for gases is
higher than for other elastomers at room temperature. This is to be taken
into consideration, particularly for thin-walled diaphragms.
The material is broken down with the release of oxygen at higher
temperatures due to de-polymerisation.
Also newly developed peroxide cross-linked materials have good

resistance to media that have little or no compatibility with conventional
FKM. This relates to, e.g.: Alcohols, hot water, steam and fuels containing
alcohol.
Heavy swelling in
polar solvents and ketones, fire retardant hydraulic fluids, type: skydrol,
brake fluid on glycol ether base.
mineral oils (comparable to materials of a CR base) and brake fluids of a

glycol ether base.
Approx. 20 C to +200 C (briefly up to +230 C).
Use possible in water up to around +100 C.
Special types: 35 C to +200 C.
Sufficiently resistant in aqueous salt solutions, monohydric and polyhydric

alcohols.
By means of suitable moulding and especially material compositions

developed especially for such applications, seals and moulded parts can
be used even for low temperatures.
Heavy swelling in
Perfluoro elastomer Simriz (FFKM)
low molecular esters and ethers, aliphatic as well as aromatic

hydro-carbons.
Concentrated acids and alkalis, water and steam at temperatures over
approx. 100 C damage the material.
approx. 60 C to +200 C (briefly up to +230 C). Parts can be

produced from special compounds that only become brittle
under 100 C.
Fluorosilicone rubber fluoromethyl polysiloxane (FVMQ)

is a methyl vinyl silicone rubber with groups containing fluorine.
Elastomers made of this synthetic rubber are significantly more resistant
to swelling in fuels, mineral and synthetic oils than those made of silicone
rubber.
approx. 80 C up to +175 C (briefly up to +200 C).
Fluoro elastomer (FKM)
With the use of specially perfluorinated (i.e. completely free of hydrogen)

monomers and corresponding compounding and process techniques,
materials with highly elastic properties can be manufactured that come
very close to PTFE in their media and thermal resistance. Seals and
perfluoro elastomer are used everywhere where extreme safety standards
apply, and a high maintenance and repair effort outweighs the price for
the seals. Preferred fields are the chemical industry, oil production and
processing industry, appliance manufacturing and power station
applications, as well as for aerospace projects.
15 C to +230 C.
Polyurethane (AU)
Polyurethane is a highly molecular organic material with a chemical
composition that features a high number of urethane groups. Within
certain temperature limits, polyurethane possesses the characteristic
elastic properties of rubber. Three components determine the
composition of the material:
polyol
By means of the polymerisation of vinylidene fluoride (VF) and

alternatively, the use of variable proportions of hexafluoropropylene (HFP),
tetrafluoroethylene (TFE), 1-hydro pentafluoropropylene (HFPE) and
perfluoro (methyl vinyl ether) (FMVE), it is possible to manufacture
copolymers, terpolymers or tetrapolymers with varying structure and
fluorine content of 6571%, and as a result different media resistance and
low temperature flexibility. Crosslinking is performed either with diamine,
bisphenols or organic peroxide.
diisocyanate
chain extender.
These define the properties of the resulting polyurethane material
depending on the type, quantity and reaction condition.
Polyurethane possesses the following properties:
high mechanical strength,
The special significance of materials based on FKM is in their high

temperature resistance and chemical stability.
good wear resistance,
Gas permeability is low. In a high vacuum elastomers from FKM have

minimal weight losses.
good flexibility,
variable modulus of elasticity in broad limits,
The ozone, weathering, and light crack resistance is very good, as is

flame resistance.
Amines can damage the material and require selection of suitable types
as well as special compound composition.
A special elastomer group is the copolymers made of TFE and propene
with a relatively low fluorine content (57%). Materials using these
elastomers possess excellent resistance to hot water, steam as well as
against amines or media containing amines with lower swelling resistance
against mineral oils.
broadly adjustable hardness range with good elasticity,

(polyurethane fills the gap between stretchable soft rubber
types and brittle plastics.)
very good ozone and oxidation resistance,
good swelling resistance in mineral oils and greases, water,
water-oil mixtures and aliphatic hydro-carbons,
operating temperature range 30 C to +80 C, high load types up to
more than +100 C in mineral oils.
Not resistant to polar solvents, chlorinated hydro-carbons, aromatics,
brake fluids with a glycol base, acids and alkalis.
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Chlorobutadiene rubber (CR)
is a polymer based on chlorobutadiene. Elastomers with corresponding

compound composition feature chemical resistance, good resistance to
ageing, the effects of weather, ozone attack and flame resistance.
acids and bases in low concentrations as well as in alcohols and water

without an excessively high temperature and concentration. Brake fluids
with a glycol ether base, e.g. ATE-SL at temperatures up to 70 C.
mineral oils with high aniline point, greases, many refrigerants and water
(with special compound composition).
mineral oils and greases, fuels and aliphatic, aromatic and chlorinated
hydro-carbons.
mineral oils, low molecular aliphatic hydro-carbons (petrol, isooctane).

Heavy swelling in
Heavy swelling in
Higher temperatures over a longer period can soften natural rubber after
previous hardening.
Polybutadiene rubber (BR)
aromatics, e.g. benzene. toluene, chlorinated hydro-carbons, esters,

ethers and ketones.
is a polymer made of butadiene.

It features high elasticity, resistance to abrasion, very good hot and cold
properties and light crack resistance.
approx. 45 C to +100 C depending on compound composition

(briefly up to 130 C).
Ethylene-oxide-epichlorhydrin rubber
(ECO)Polyepichlorohydrine (CO)
It is used as a component with NR and SBR for tyres, drive belts,

conveyor belts and similar
is a polymer made of epichlorohydrin and ethylene oxide.
diluted acids and bases, in alcohols and water.
Materials based on this rubber feature low gas permeability, good ozone
and weathering resistance.
Heavy swelling in
Hydro-carbons.
mineral oils and greases, vegetable and animal oils and fats as well as
aliphatic hydro-carbons such as propane, butane etc. and both petrol
and water.
Heavy swelling in
Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR)
aromatic and chlorinated hydro-carbons, fire retardant hydraulic fluids of

group HFD.
is a polymer made of butadiene and styrene.
Materials made of SBR are preferred for the manufacture of sealing

components for hydraulic brakes.
Chlorosulphonated polyethylene (CSM)
inorganic and organic acids and bases as well as alcohols and water,
brake fluids with glycol ether base.
Heavy swelling in
hot water, steam, washing lye, oxidising media, acids, bases, polar organic media, ketones, fire retardant hydraulic fluids of group HFC and some
types of group HFD, brake fluids on a glycol ether base.
mineral oils, lubricants, petrol and aliphatic, aromatic and chlorinated

hydro-carbons.
aliphatic hydro-carbons and greases.

Resistance in oxidizing media, inorganic and organic acids and bases.
Heavy swelling in
Ethylene propylene diene rubber (EPDM)

is a polymer made of ethylene, propylene and a small proportion of a
diene.
aromatic and chlorinated hydro-carbons and esters.
Ethylene propylene rubber (EPM) is a polymer made of ethylene and

propylene.
Precision moulded parts and sealing components made of EPDM are

preferably used in washing machines, dishwashers and water fittings.
Likewise, seals made of this material are used in hydraulic systems with
fire retardant fluids of groups HFC and HFD and in hydraulic brake
systems.
approx.20 C to +120 C
Natural rubber (NR)
is a high polymer isoprene.

The vulcanisates feature high mechanical strength and elasticity as well
as good low temperature behaviour. They are therefore preferred for the
production of torsional vibration dampers, engine mounts, machine
mountings, rubber-metal-spring components, diaphragms, moulded
parts, etc.
Elastomers made of EPDM have a very good ozone, ageing and

weathering resistance and therefore are very well suited to the
manufacture of profile strips and sealing strips subjected to the weather.
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YBBO features:
hot water, steam, washing lye, oxidising media, acids, bases, polar
organic media, ketones, fire retardant hydraulic fluids of group HFC and
some types of group HFD, brake fluids with a glycol ether base.
high tensile strength

high tensile modulus
Heavy swelling in
good elongation
mineral oils and greases, petrol and aliphatic as well as aromatic and
chlorinated hydro-carbons.
resistance to oxidising acids
outstanding resistance to solvents
For additional lubrication of seals used, special lubricants are therefore to

be used.
aliphatic hydro-carbons
alkali solutions, various greases and oils.
Strongly oxidising acids and chlorinated solvents lead to pronounced
swelling.
5.1.3 Thermoplastic materials
Butyl rubber (IIR)

Chlorobutyl rubber (CIIR)
Brominebutyl rubber (BIIR)
Products made of thermoplastic materials are widely used today in all

sectors of technology, particularly for seals and moulded parts.
are polymers made of isobutyl or chlorinated or bromine isobutyl and a

low isoprene portion.
Elastomers made of IIR have a very good weather and ageing resistance.
The gas and steam permeability of this material is low.
Some materials have a very good electric isolation performance.
brake fluids with a glycol ether base, inorganic and organic acids and
bases, hot water and steam up to 120 C, hydraulic fluids of group HFC
and some types from group HFD.
Heavy swelling in
The softer grades (polyethylene, soft PVC, thermoplastic elastomers)

compete in many areas with the highly elastic materials, whilst the
mechanically high-quality plastics (polyamide, acetal resins) are
penetrating into areas that previously were exclusively reserved for
metals.
Sealing components and items made of thermoplastic materials differ
according to the basic materials employed. In many cases they can be
varied by the incorporation of certain additives, and can thus be matched
to the purpose of the part to be manufactured. In the following some
characteristic properties and the resulting primary applications are
explained. Further information can be obtained from the material tables.
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)
PTFE is a thermoplastic polymer made of tetrafluoroethylene.

This non-elastic material features a series of excellent properties:
mineral oils and greases, petrol and aliphatic as well as aromatic and
chlorinated hydro-carbons.
The coefficient of friction is very low compared to most mating surface

materials. Static friction and dynamic friction are nearly the same.
5.1.2 Thermoplastic rubbers (TPE)
The electric isolation properties are extraordinarily good. They are almost
independent of frequency as well as temperature and weathering effects.
The properties of TPE are between elastomers and thermoplastics.

TPE are multi-phase systems made of a hard and a soft phase. The hard
segments are mounted together so that a kind of crystal structure is
produced that is bonded with soft segments. A pseudo crosslinked
structure is produced.
Categorisation of TPE
TPE-O
Thermoplastic rubber of an olefine base e.g. (YEPDM)
TPE-S
Thermoplastic rubber of a styrene base (YSBR)
TPE-E
Thermoplastic rubber of an ester base (YBBO)
The surface is smooth and repellent. This favours usage in all applications
in which the adherence of residues is to be avoided.
PTFE is physiologically safe for operating temperatures up to +200 C
The chemical resistance is better than all elastomers and other

thermoplastics. Consequently, swelling resistance is good in nearly all
media.
Liquid alkali metals as well as some fluorine compounds attack the
material PTFE at higher pressures and temperatures.
The thermal applications are between approx. 200 C and +260 C.
At 200 C. PTFE still possesses a certain elasticity; the material can
therefore be used for seals and items, e.g. even for liquid gases.
To be noted on the usage of parts made of pure PTFE:
YEPDM (olephinic thermoplastic rubber)

Properties comparable with EPDM, i.e. very good chemical resistance,
but not oil resistant.
that the material from a specific load remains deformed due to creep
and cold flow,
Products cannot be used above a temperature limit of 120 C.
that the resistance to abrasion is low,
YSBR (thermoplastic rubber containing styrene)

Here the hard phase is styrene, the soft phase butadiene.
that thermal expansion, as with most plastics, is approx. 10-x

greater in comparison to metals,
Properties:
that heat conductivity is low, so that heat dissipation can become a

problem for bearings and moving seals,
The mechanical properties are comparable with SBR. Hard or soft

products result from the ratio of the styrene to butadiene. Creep and loss
of tensile strength occur above 60 C. Low temperature flexibility reaches
down to 40 C. Good chemical resistance against water, diluted acids
and alkalis, alcohols and ketones. In non-polar solvents, fuels and oils
YSBR is not resistant.
YBBO (copolyester TPE)
that the material is not highly elastic.

For this reason designs with elastomeric seals cannot simply be switched
to PTFE. For lip seals additional contact pressure by springs, or similar,
must always be provided.
PTFE is filled with graphite, glass fibre, bronze and carbon to obtain
special properties.
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Ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (ETFE)
Polybutyleneterephthalate (PBTP)
is an injectable fluoro-plastic with very good chemical and thermal

properties, although they do not quite reach the values of PTFE.
Upper operating temperature around +180 C
PBTP is a partially crystalline, thermoplastic polyester material.

In hydraulics, unfilled or filled types are used depending on load.
Perfluorokoxy copolymer (PFA)
PBTP has the following properties:

high stiffness and hardness
is also is an injectable fluoro-plastic with similar chemical and thermal

properties to PTFE.
good sliding behaviour

very low water absorption (= high dimensional stability)
Both materials are particularly suited to the manufacture of high quality,

technical moulded and injection moulded parts.
operating temperature range 30 C to +120 C (shape resistance)

Resistant against all lubricants containing mineral oils used in hydraulics,
and all hydraulic fluids, diluted alkalis, acids and alcohol.
Upper operating temperature approx. +260 C
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
Not resistant to strong alkalis and acids.
is today often used due to its good technological and chemical properties
instead of the elastomer materials used previously.
The materials developed on a PVC base have rubber-like properties unlike
the other thermoplastics mentioned here.
PVC is used as a preference for: bellows, collars, seals, coverings,
covers, sleeves, caps and moulded parts for air ducting.
High load thermoplastic polycondensates

"high tech, engineering plastics"
These products are mostly still very expensive due to complex
manufacturing. They are only used for moulded parts if other plastics are
certain to fail; metal properties would however cause problems,
particularly in the electrical industry.
All materials have good resistance properties and a high temperature
resistance (+140 C to +200 C).
35 C to +70 C.
Polypropylene (PP)
Special features of the individual materials:

Polyethersulfone (PESU)
is resistant to hot water and washing lye, is suitable for boiling and can
withstand sterilisation temperatures of +120 C for short periods.
Preferred use is in pumps, motor vehicles and domestic appliances.
Polyamide (PA)
resistant to water
not resistant in brake fluids
Polysulphone (PPSO)
significantly surpasses the previously mentioned materials with its

resistance values. The high wear resistance, toughness of material
structure, damping capacity and good dry-running characteristics make
this material particularly suitable for machine components of various sorts
(gearwheels, plain bearings, guide strips, switching cams etc.).
cannot be used in boiling water

certain solvents, esters, ketones, aromatics, chlorinated
hydro-carbons damage the material due to the formation of stress
cracks.
Polyphenylenesulphide (PPS)
Upper application temperature +120 C to +140 C.
Polyoxymethylene (POM) (polyacetal)
significantly more chemically resistant than other products

due to crystallinity not tough and sensitive to notching
mechanically is one of the highly loadable thermoplastics. Thanks to its

stiffness, hardness and resistance linked with an excellent shape
resistance, even at higher temperatures (up to approx. +80 C) this can
in some cases replace parts made of metal die casting, brass or
aluminium.
Particularly noteworthy is the low water absorption. As a result moulded
parts made of polyacetal have even better dimensional accuracy even
under the action of moisture. Acetal resins are attacked by acids.
Polytherketone (PEEK)
very good resistance to chemicals
of universal application
strengthened types can be used up to +180 C
Polyetherrimide (PEI)
amorphous and transparent
Application temperature 40 C to +140 C
Polyphenylene oxide (PPO)
ketones and chlorinated hydro-carbons attack this material.
is a tough, rigid material that above all features good dimensional

stability, low creep tendency and low water absorption. It possesses a
high impact strength and an almost constant low loss factor.
PPO is resistant to hydrolysis but is not resistant to oil.
Various properties of polyamide, acetal resins and PPO can still be
substantially improved through the use of glass fibres. As an example, the
tensile strength is then in general more than doubled compared to
non-reinforced material. Heat resistance is considerably improved the
notch impact strength, which drops rapidly without glass fibre
reinforcement with reducing temperature, remains almost unchanged.
At the same time, compression strength is increased and the cold flow
tendency reduced. The linear thermal expansion is essentially lowered.
It lies in the order of magnitude of metal die casting.
Upper application temperature briefly approx. +130 C, longer approx.
+90 C.
5.1.4 Thermosets
Materials that neither soften or melt in heat. When ardened they are also
more stable than plastics that are not cross-linked.
The most important product groups are:
phenol formaldehyde materials (PF)
unsaturated polyester (UP)
polyimide (PI).
Phenol formaldehyde (PF)

Resin-type condensation products - novolak - or resol resin are produced
from the reaction of phenol with formaldehyde.
DIN-type masses differ due to various filler substances and reinforcing
materials. The mechanical and technical properties are extremely useful.
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The universal applicability
Tempered parts can briefly bear a load up to +300 C.

Other general properties:
of these perfluoro elastomers is based on their resistance to aggressive

media and their suitability for use in extraordinarily wide temperature
ranges. Simriz provide reliable sealing of
operating temperature 30 C to +120 C

hard and very solid
chlorinated and high-polar organic solvents, e.g. chloroform,

di-chloromethane, alcohols, lower aldehydes, ketones, ester and
ether, N-methyl-pyrrolidone, cellosolve, nitrated hydro-carbons,
amines, amides
low tendency to creep

fire retardant
notch sensitivity
aromates such as benzene, toluene or xylene.
not for use with foodstuffs
Simriz is also particularly suitable for the sealing of:
resistant to organic solvents, weak acids and alkalis, salt
strong inorganic acids and alkalis such as sulphuric acid, hydrochloric

acid, nitric acid and their compounds plus caustic soda and caustic
potash or ammonia,
solutions.
Unsaturated polyester resins (UP)
strong organic acids and bases, e.g. formic acid or ethylene diamine.
Simriz seals produce best results also in relation to temperature
operating limits. They remain
Reaction products from

unsaturated di-carbon acid ester,
cold-flexible down to 12 C and
diol,
.can be used up to +300 C without problems.
Reliable solutions for many sectors
di-carbon acids and styrene.

They are available as injection moulding materials, bulk moulding
compounds (BMC) or, as web material, sheet moulding compounds
(SMC).
Simriz seals are particularly suitable for all sealing tasks with high
chemical and/or thermal loads. Simriz seals are ideal for:
Processing by pressing and injection moulding.
Properties:
analysis technology,
Unlike phenol resins
aerospace,
usage in plant and domestic appliances,
lower shrinkage
mechanical engineering and systems,
lower water absorption
mineral oil processing,
better colouring
medical technology,
lower price
pharmaceutical industry,
suitable for contact with foodstuffs
pumps,
good notch and impact sensitivity.
process technology,
Polyimide (PI)
packaging machines.
Initial material is bis-maleinimide. From this duroplastic polyimides with a

different molecular composition are produced by polymerisation.
A common feature of these heterocyclical polymers is the imide-ring with
in the main chain. Polyimide parts feature high temperature resistance up
to over +260 C, briefly even over +300 C, with mechanical properties
largely retained. The materials also have good sliding and wear properties
that can be further improved by the addition of suitable additives. The
electrical properties and the resistance to radiation of polyimides are
excellent. The materials are largely resistant to solvents, greases, fuels,
oils and diluted acids. Strong acids, alkalis and hot water attack
polyimides.
5.1.5 Seals and moulded parts made of Simriz
Perfluoro elastomers (FFKM) provide the widest range of chemical and

thermal resistance and compatibility among elastomeric sealing materials.
Freudenberg produces seals made of the all-round perfluoro elastomer
Simriz.
You can tell us what shape your seal should have.

We will deliver it.
Seals and moulded parts made of Simriz are manufactured by us in the
standard sizes of the ISC O-ring range, or specially to suit your
requirements. We will exactly match ISC O-rings, ISC O-rings in special
shapes or moulded parts made of Simriz to your task or requirements.
Solutions even for complex requirements
High pressure, cyclical temperatures, static or dynamic loads, chemical

and abrasive attack by the fluid to be sealed form a requirement matrix
for the seal; this matrix can be extraordinarily complex. To be able to
guarantee safe and reliable sealing, even in these cases, we will work
together with you on individual solutions. High temperature and FDA
materials on enquiry. Our specialists will gladly meet your challenges.
These sealing materials
come very close to the resistance of pure PTFE,

have in addition the great advantage of high elasticity,
also feature a much longer service life compared to conventional
elastomers.
www.ftlseals.co.uk

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Testing and Interpretation of Test Results Glossary of Material Codes

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Glossary of material codes

4. Testing and Interpretation of Test Results

4.1 Physical properties

The parameter most frequently used to characterise highly elastic

Insufficient sample thickness results in excessively high measured

Conversely, measurements too close to the edge, e.g. on excessively

The same applies for excessively high contact pressure.

Another method for performing measurements in the test laboratory is to

For hardness information, the measurement methods used must always

Tensile stress and modulus of elasticity

Like hardness, tensile stress and modulus of elasticity are also

Other moduli are of significance for the deformation characteristics.

Relationships between deformation properties and

Based on the statements made above, only an approximate relationship

Tensile strength and elongation at break

Resistance to tear propagation

component is comparable to both, where the elastic portion

Other physical properties

For special applications, other physical properties such as thermal

Additional information is obtained by testing the resistance to tear

Elasticity and damping

The mechanical damping is the reciprocal property of the elasticity. It can

The elasticity is, as for ability to deform, dependent on temperature and

On contact seals, heat is produced by the friction that occurs during

but also from 30 to 40 degrees between the differing test methods.

Temperature retraction test

In this test (ASTM D 1329-79) a rod-shaped rubber specimen in an

Cold brittleness temperature with impact load

The cold brittleness temperature TS (DIN 53 546) is termed as the

4.2 Resistance of materials

For the comparison of general low temperature figures, as has been

Swelling and chemical attack

Frequently, consideration of chemical resistance and of swelling

* replacement product for ASTM oil No. 2

The consequences of a chemical effect are, similar to hot air, ageing,

** replacement product for ASTM oil No. 3

VAI = Volume change index

Diagram 20.5 Swelling behaviour of materials

Volumetric change index

By placing specimens in a heated cupboard (DIN 53 508), it is possible to

Static constant load and constant deformation

If a part made of highly elastic material is constantly deformed for a

Heat resistance, ageing behaviour

Dynamic loading, fatigue and service life

This important property for friction loading is also heavily dependent on

Depending on composition of compound between 30 C and +100 C,

5. Properties of Seal Materials

The properties of a material are primarily determined by the base polymer

5.1 General material descriptions

Carboxylated nitrile rubber (XNBR)

are terpolymers or blends of butadiene, acrylonitrile and methacryl acid.

approx. 25 C to +100 C (+130 C also briefly).

Hydrogenated acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (HNBR)

5.1.1 Elastomeric materials

The materials produced feature high mechanical strength and improved

Acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR)

Acrylate rubber (ACM)

Good swelling resistance in