Heat can quickly degrade rubber seals, causing unexpected equipment failures and costly downtime. As a rubber products supplier at Julong Rubber, I've seen customers struggle with choosing the right heat-resistant material.
The best heat-resistant rubbers include Silicone, Viton (FKM), EPDM, and FFKM, which can withstand temperatures from 150°C up to 320°C, suitable for demanding applications.
But how do you choose the right one? Let me explain clearly, so you can make informed procurement decisions.
Which Rubber Has the Best Heat Resistance?
Choosing a rubber that can't handle your application's heat exposure will lead to failures and frequent replacements.
Silicone, Viton (FKM), and FFKM rubbers offer the best heat resistance, each suitable for different high-temperature environments up to 320°C.
✅ Heat Resistance Comparison Table:
| Rubber Type | Maximum Temperature | Key Strengths | Typical Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silicone | 230°C | Excellent flexibility, insulation | Electronics, food-grade applications |
| Viton (FKM) | 250°C | Excellent chemical and heat resistance | Automotive, fuel systems, chemicals |
| EPDM | 150°C | Good weathering and moderate heat resistance | HVAC, outdoor seals, steam |
| FFKM | 320°C | Exceptional chemical and heat resistance | Aerospace, semiconductor, chemical plants |
Each material has its strengths. Silicone excels in flexibility and electrical insulation. Viton provides great chemical resistance along with heat resistance1. EPDM handles outdoor conditions and moderate heat, while FFKM is ideal for extreme environments.
Can Rubber Melt at High Temperature?
Misunderstanding the difference between melting and degradation of rubber can lead to improper material selection and unexpected equipment failure.
Rubber does not truly "melt" but will soften, degrade, and break down chemically when exposed to temperatures beyond its recommended limits. This breakdown leads to permanent loss of structural integrity.
✅ Melting vs. Degradation Explained:
Rubber is a thermoset material, meaning once vulcanized, it doesn't melt like plastic (thermoplastic). Instead, rubber will gradually degrade, lose elasticity, become brittle, and ultimately crumble if exposed to excessive heat. For instance, silicone rubber doesn't melt but will degrade above its maximum recommended temperature, around 230°C, becoming brittle and unusable. This process is irreversible, highlighting the importance of correct rubber selection for high-temperature applications.
What is the Maximum Temperature for Rubber?
Using rubber materials beyond their maximum temperature2 rating significantly increases risk, often resulting in seal failures and equipment downtime.
The maximum temperature varies by rubber type, ranging from about 120°C (NBR) up to 320°C (FFKM). Common heat-resistant rubbers like Silicone and Viton withstand 230°C and 250°C, respectively.
🛠️ Maximum Temperature Table:
| Rubber Type | Maximum Continuous Temperature |
|---|---|
| ✅ FFKM | 320°C |
| ✅ Viton (FKM) | 250°C |
| ✅ Silicone | 230°C |
| ✅ EPDM | 150°C |
| ✅ NBR | 120°C |
Each rubber has specific temperature limitations. For high-performance sealing in extreme environments (like aerospace), FFKM is best. Viton offers excellent heat and chemical resistance for automotive and industrial uses, whereas silicone is optimal for medical, food-grade, and electronics applications.
What are the Applications of Heat-Resistant Rubbers3?
Choosing rubber without considering specific application requirements often causes early seal failure and equipment damage.
Heat-resistant rubbers are commonly used in automotive, aerospace, industrial machinery, food processing, electronics, and chemical industries.
🛠️ Industry-Specific Uses:
✅ Automotive Industry
- Engine gaskets, oil seals (FKM)
- High-temp hoses (Silicone)
- Exhaust system seals (FFKM, FKM)
✅ Aerospace
- Jet engine seals (FFKM, FKM)
- Hydraulic system seals (Silicone, FKM)
- Thermal insulation seals (Silicone)
✅ Industrial Machinery
- Steam valves (EPDM)
- Hydraulic seals (FKM)
- Furnace seals (Silicone, FFKM)
✅ Food Processing
- Oven door gaskets (Silicone)
- Baking tray seals (Food-grade silicone)
- High-temp hoses (Silicone, EPDM)
What Factors Should You Consider When Selecting Heat-Resistant Rubber?
Picking rubber solely based on temperature limits can be misleading, leading to frequent replacements or operational failures.
Selecting heat-resistant rubber involves evaluating temperature exposure, chemical compatibility, hardness, certifications, and overall durability.
🛠️ Selection Criteria for Heat-Resistant Rubber:
| Criteria | Importance | Recommended Material |
|---|---|---|
| ✅ Maximum Temperature | Critical for stability | FFKM, FKM, Silicone |
| ✅ Chemical Exposure | Ensures long-term compatibility | FFKM, FKM |
| ✅ Hardness (Durometer) | Matches application pressure requirements | Varies by formulation |
| ✅ Certifications | Food or medical grade compliance | FDA-approved Silicone |
| ✅ Durability & Lifespan | Reduces maintenance frequency | FFKM, FKM |
Consider the combination of factors rather than temperature alone. For example, in automotive fuel systems, Viton (FKM) provides heat resistance plus fuel compatibility. For extreme conditions in chemical processing, FFKM remains unmatched.
Conclusion
Selecting the right heat-resistant rubber like Viton, Silicone, EPDM, or FFKM ensures optimal performance, reduced downtime, and long-term reliability for your applications.
📞 Need Expert Advice on Heat-Resistant Rubber?
At Julong Rubber, we offer customized heat-resistant rubber solutions to meet your unique industrial needs. Get in touch for professional advice and tailored recommendations!
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📧 Contact Kelly at Julong Rubber
Email: info@rubberandseal.com
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Explore this resource to understand the best materials for heat resistance in rubber, ensuring optimal performance in high-temperature applications. ↩
This link will provide insights into the maximum temperature ratings for various rubber types, crucial for selecting the right material for your needs. ↩
Discover the diverse applications of heat-resistant rubbers across industries, helping you make informed decisions for your specific needs. ↩
