In our applications, we mainly use elastomers that perform well in the external environment, are resistant to hydraulic and fuel fluids, have a wide range of functional operating temperatures and an aptitude for ageing that is compatible with our areas of use. At the same time, we are constantly looking for the best compromise, including in terms of fatigue, because the mechanical stresses applied can be extremely severe. Silicone, fluorosilicone and fluorocarbon elastomers therefore make up the bulk of our range and expertise.
NBR
Nitrile rubber (NBR) is the benchmark when it comes to resistance to oils and fuels. Its resistance to cold can be adjusted down to -50°C, with a compromise to be found when it comes to resistance to oils and fuels. Its maximum continuous operating temperature is around 100°C. By its very nature, NBR has low resistance to ozone, which can be improved with protective agents.
Nitrile rubbers can be formulated to meet a wide range of needs, covering a wide range of physical characteristics and conversion processes.
The properties of NBR enable it to meet the requirements of EN549 (Europe) and UL144 (US) for gas applications.
A variant of NBR, HNBR is an elastomer derived from a hydrogenation process of NBR that greatly improves resistance to ageing and mechanical properties.
Typical EFFBE NBR applications: gas regulators, hydraulic bladders, fuel pumps, etc
HNBR
ECO
Epichlorohydrin rubber (ECO) is known for its excellent resistance to cold as well as to fuels and other hydrocarbons. This type of elastomer also has remarkable heat and ageing resistance properties, as well as good flexibility at low temperatures.
ECO’s properties enable it to meet the requirements of EN549 for gas applications.
EPDM
EPDMs are the elastomers of choice for contact with water and water vapour, as well as for acidic and basic environments. It has a very wide operating temperature range, from -55°C to 150°C. It is an ideal candidate for thermal management circuits (heating/cooling in industrial or automotive environments). In addition, EPDM compounds have excellent resistance to ageing.
This material is also suitable for food contact, with the possibility of certifying compounds to FDA, WRAS, KTW, W270, ACS, etc. standards
CR
Chloroprene, better known under the trade name Neoprene, is a rubber with balanced properties in all areas. In addition, chloroprene rubbers have the advantage of being self-extinguishing and of inherently good adhesion to metal surfaces.
VMQ/FVMQ/PVMQ
Silicones are inorganic rubbers with exceptional resistance to cold and heat. Their resistance to ageing is exemplary, guaranteeing the longevity of the parts produced. What’s more, silicones are available in food and medical grades, which means they can be used in a wide range of areas with strict safety requirements.
Fluorinated grades improve resistance to hydrocarbons and solvents, making them an uncompromising material for the automotive sector, where high resistance to oils and fuels is required in addition to resistance to high temperatures.
Phenyl grades are used where flexibility is required at extremely low temperatures, down to -110°C.
VMQ
FLUORINATED SILICONES (FVMQ)
PHENYLATED SILICONES (PVMQ)
FKM
Fluorocarbons are compounds with excellent resistance to aggressive environments and high temperatures. Some grades guarantee flexibility down to -40°C. This is the elastomer of choice when exceptional environmental resistance is required.