Canrez® FFKM Selection Guide

Canrez®, a product line from Canyon Components, is a type of perfluoroelastomer (FFKM) known for its exceptional properties and performance. Canrez® is more cost effective than other FFKM brands like Kalrez®, but is still more expensive than other types of elastomer, like silicone, FKM, or EPDM. The high cost of FFKM materials like Canrez® can be attributed to several factors:

​

1. Material Composition and Manufacturing Process: Kalrez® & Canrez® materials are made from perfluoroelastomer, a class of synthetic rubber that provides outstanding resistance to heat and chemicals. The raw materials for FFKM are costly, and the manufacturing process is complex and precise, leading to higher production costs.
2. Performance Capabilities: Kalrez® & Canrez® are designed for extreme environments and can withstand high temperatures, aggressive chemicals, and harsh conditions where other non-perfluoroelastomer materials would fail. This level of performance justifies a premium price, as it often outperforms other non-perfluoroelastomer seals in demanding applications.
3. Longevity and Durability: While more expensive upfront, Kalrez® & Canrez® parts often last longer than those made from less expensive materials. This durability can lead to cost savings over time, as there's less need for replacement parts and maintenance.
4. Specialized Applications: Kalrez® & Canrez® materials are often used in critical applications such as aerospace, chemical processing, semiconductor manufacturing, and pharmaceutical industries. The specific requirements of these industries for high-performance materials add to the value and cost of Kalrez® & Canrez® materials.
5. Research and Development Costs: The development of specialized materials like Kalrez® & Canrez® involves significant research and development expenses. These costs are often reflected in the final price of the product.

​

In summary, the combination of its advanced material properties, manufacturing costs, performance capabilities, and the specific demands of the industries it serves, along with R&D investments, contribute to the high cost of Kalrez® & Canrez® materials.

Perfluoroelastomer (FFKM) and Kalrez® are related but not identical terms. Perfluoroelastomer is a generic name for a class of synthetic rubber materials, while Kalrez® is a specific brand of perfluoroelastomer produced by DuPont.

​

1. Perfluoroelastomer (FFKM): This is a type of synthetic rubber made up of perfluorinated polymers. It is known for its high resistance to extreme temperatures and chemicals, including acids, bases, solvents, and hydrocarbons. FFKM elastomers are widely used in demanding sealing applications where conventional rubbers would fail. Kalrez® & Canrez® are both made from perfluoroelastomers. 
2. Kalrez®: Kalrez® is a brand name of a perfluoroelastomer product line made by DuPont. It shares the general properties of FFKM, like outstanding chemical and temperature resistance. Kalrez® is often used in specialized industrial applications such as in the chemical processing, semiconductor, aerospace, and oil and gas industries.

​

In summary, while Kalrez® products are perfluoroelastomers, not all perfluoroelastomers are Kalrez®. Kalrez® refers specifically to the DuPont brand of FFKM, which is known for its high-quality and performance in extreme conditions. Other brands and types of FFKM materials are available in the market as well, including Canrez®.

Teflon™ and Kalrez® (and other perfluoroelastomers like Canrez®) are both high-performance materials used in a variety of industrial applications, but they have distinct properties and are used for different purposes:

​

1. Material Composition:

• Teflon™: Teflon™ is the brand name for polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a synthetic fluoropolymer of tetrafluoroethylene. It is best known for its non-stick properties and is widely used as a coating for cookware. Teflon™ also has excellent chemical resistance, low friction, and high electrical insulation properties.
• Kalrez®: Kalrez® is a brand name for a type of perfluoroelastomer (FFKM) produced by DuPont. Unlike Teflon™, which is a solid polymer, Kalrez® is an elastomer, meaning it has elastic properties similar to rubber. It offers exceptional resistance to high temperatures and chemicals, including acids, bases, and solvents.

1. Properties and Applications:

• Teflon™: Its non-stick nature makes it ideal for cookware, but it is also used in a variety of industrial applications where non-stick, low-friction surfaces are required. Teflon's™ chemical inertness makes it suitable for use in containers and pipework for reactive and corrosive chemicals. In the electrical industry, its high insulation properties are utilized in cable and wire coatings.
• Kalrez® & Canrez®: Kalrez® & Canrez® seals and O-rings are used in environments where a combination of high temperatures and corrosive chemicals would degrade most other materials. Its applications are often found in the aerospace, oil and gas, semiconductor, and chemical processing industries. Kalrez® & Canrez® are valued for their durability and longevity under harsh conditions.

1. Temperature Resistance:

• Teflon™: While Teflon™ has good heat resistance, it starts to degrade at temperatures above 260°C (500°F).
• Kalrez® & Canrez®: Kalrez® & Canrez® can withstand much higher temperatures, typically up to around 327°C (620°F), and sometimes even higher for short periods.

1. Cost:

• Teflon™: Generally less expensive than Kalrez® & Canrez®, making it more suitable for everyday consumer products as well as industrial applications where the extreme properties of Kalrez® & Canrez™ are not necessary.
• Kalrez® & Canrez®: Due to specialized properties, Kalrez® & Canrez® materials are typically more expensive than Teflon™. They are typically used in applications where its unique resistance to extreme environments justifies the higher cost.

​

In summary, while both Teflon™ and Kalrez® offer high chemical resistance, they differ significantly in their physical properties, temperature resistance, and typical applications. Teflon™ is a non-stick, low-friction polymer used in a wide range of applications, whereas Kalrez® & Canrez® are high-performance elastomers used in demanding industrial environments where other materials would fail. If you are interested in learning more about Canrez®, click here.

PTFE and Kalrez® (and other perfluoroelastomers like Canrez®) are both high-performance materials used in a variety of industrial applications, but they have distinct properties and are used for different purposes:

​

1. Material Composition:

• PTFE: Commonly referred to as the brand name Teflon™, PTFE is a fluoropolymer made of tetrafluoroethylene molecules. It's known for its non-stick properties and resistance to heat and chemicals. PTFE also has excellent low friction, and high electrical insulation properties.
• Kalrez®: Kalrez® is a brand name for a type of perfluoroelastomer (FFKM) produced by DuPont. Unlike PTFE, which is a solid polymer, Kalrez® is an elastomer, meaning it has elastic properties similar to rubber. It offers exceptional resistance to high temperatures and chemicals, including acids, bases, and solvents.

1. Properties and Applications:

• PTFE: Its non-stick nature makes it ideal for cookware, but it is also used in a variety of industrial applications where non-stick, low-friction surfaces are required. PTFE's chemical inertness makes it suitable for use in containers and pipework for reactive and corrosive chemicals. In the electrical industry, its high insulation properties are utilized in cable and wire coatings.
• Kalrez® & Canrez®: Kalrez® & Canrez® seals and O-rings are used in environments where a combination of high temperatures and corrosive chemicals would degrade most other materials. Its applications are often found in the aerospace, oil and gas, semiconductor, and chemical processing industries. Kalrez® & Canrez® are valued for their durability and longevity under harsh conditions.

1. Temperature Resistance:

• PTFE: While PTFE has good heat resistance, it starts to degrade at temperatures above 260°C (500°F).
• Kalrez® & Canrez®: Kalrez® & Canrez® can withstand much higher temperatures, typically up to around 327°C (620°F), and sometimes even higher for short periods.

1. Cost:

• PTFE: Generally less expensive than Kalrez® & Canrez®, making it more suitable for everyday consumer products as well as industrial applications where the extreme properties of Kalrez® & Canrez® are not necessary.
• Kalrez® & Canrez®: Due to specialized properties, Kalrez® & Canrez® materials are typically more expensive than PTFE. They are typically used in applications where its unique resistance to extreme environments justifies the higher cost.

​

In summary, while both PTFE and Kalrez® offer high chemical resistance, they differ significantly in their physical properties, temperature resistance, and typical applications. PTFE is a non-stick, low-friction polymer used in a wide range of applications, whereas Kalrez® & Canrez® are high-performance elastomers used in demanding industrial environments where other materials would fail. If you are interested in learning more about Canrez®, click here.

No, all rubber O-rings are not the same. O-rings, which are loop-shaped seals used in various applications, can be made from a wide range of rubber materials, each with its own specific properties, advantages, and limitations. The differences in these materials make certain O-rings more suitable for specific applications than others. Here are some common types of rubber materials used for O-rings:

1. Nitrile Rubber (NBR, Buna-N): Known for its excellent resistance to oil and petroleum-based fluids. NBR O-rings are commonly used in automotive and industrial applications where oil resistance is crucial.

2. Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM): Characterized by its excellent resistance to weathering, ozone, UV light, and aging. It's often used in outdoor applications, as well as for water or steam systems, but it's not suitable for use with oils and fuels.

3. Silicone Rubber: Offers high flexibility and good resistance to extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. Silicone O-rings are often used in food and beverage applications due to their inertness and in environments with wide temperature ranges.

4. Fluorocarbon Rubber (FKM, Viton): Known for its high resistance to heat and chemicals, including oil and fuel. FKM O-rings are typically used in automotive, aerospace, and industrial applications where high-temperature and chemical resistance are needed.

5. Neoprene (Chloroprene): Balances a good mix of chemical stability and flexibility, with moderate resistance to oils and weathering. Neoprene O-rings are used in refrigeration units, air conditioning systems, and outdoor applications.

6. Polyurethane: Notable for its excellent wear and tear resistance, making it suitable for high-pressure hydraulic systems and other demanding applications.

​

7. Perfluoroelastomer (FFKM): Excellent high-temperature and ultimate chemical resistance, low outgassing, and low permeability. Certain FFKM Canrez® blends can handle temperatures up to 635°F (335°C) and excursions to even higher temperatures. Used in demanding high-temperature and chemical environments, such as semiconductor manufacturing and oil and gas.

Each type of rubber material is suitable for different types of environments based on its chemical compatibility, temperature range, and resistance to various factors like oils, UV light, ozone, and wear. The selection of the right O-ring material is critical for ensuring effective sealing and longevity of the application it is used in.

The choice of the best O-ring material for high-temperature applications depends on the specific temperature range and other environmental factors involved. Several elastomer materials are suitable for high-temperature sealing, and the selection should be based on the following considerations:

1. Silicone Rubber (VMQ):

  - Temperature Range: Certain Silicone rubber blends can handle temperatures up to 600°F (315°C), however most are only rated for 400°F (205°C).

  - Advantages: Excellent high-temperature resistance, good flexibility, and resistance to ozone and UV exposure.

  - Applications: Suitable for a wide range of high-temperature applications, including aerospace, automotive, and food processing.

2. Fluorocarbon Rubber (FKM/Viton):

  - Temperature Range: FKM can withstand temperatures up to 437°F (225°C).

  - Advantages: Exceptional chemical resistance, high-temperature resistance, and durability.

  - Applications: Commonly used in oil and gas, automotive, chemical processing, and aerospace industries.

3. Perfluoroelastomer (FFKM):

  - Temperature Range: Certain FFKM Canrez® blends can handle temperatures up to 635°F (335°C) and excursions to even higher temperatures.

  - Advantages: Excellent high-temperature and ultimate chemical resistance, low outgassing, and low permeability.

  - Applications: Used in demanding high-temperature and chemical environments, such as semiconductor manufacturing and oil and gas.

4. Fluorosilicone (FVMQ):

  - Temperature Range: FVMQ materials can handle temperatures up to 356°F (180°C).

  - Advantages: Good high-temperature resistance, flexibility, and resistance to oils and fuels.

  - Applications: Suitable for aerospace, automotive, and other applications where a combination of temperature and chemical resistance is required.

The best O-ring material for high-temperature applications varies depending on the specific temperature range, chemical exposure, pressure, and other environmental factors. It's essential to consult with a material expert or O-ring manufacturer to select the most suitable material for your particular application to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Additionally, consider the specific grade and formulation of the elastomer material to match the requirements of your high-temperature application.

The choice of the best O-ring material for high-temperature applications depends on the specific temperature range and other environmental factors involved. Several elastomer materials are suitable for high-temperature sealing, and the selection should be based on the following considerations:

1. Silicone Rubber (VMQ):

  - Temperature Range: Certain Silicone rubber blends can handle temperatures up to 600°F (315°C), however most are only rated for 400°F (205°C).

  - Advantages: Excellent high-temperature resistance, good flexibility, and resistance to ozone and UV exposure.

  - Applications: Suitable for a wide range of high-temperature applications, including aerospace, automotive, and food processing.

2. Fluorocarbon Rubber (FKM/Viton):

  - Temperature Range: FKM can withstand temperatures up to 437°F (225°C).

  - Advantages: Exceptional chemical resistance, high-temperature resistance, and durability.

  - Applications: Commonly used in oil and gas, automotive, chemical processing, and aerospace industries.

3. Perfluoroelastomer (FFKM):

  - Temperature Range: Certain FFKM Canrez® blends can handle temperatures up to 635°F (335°C) and excursions to even higher temperatures.

  - Advantages: Excellent high-temperature and ultimate chemical resistance, low outgassing, and low permeability.

  - Applications: Used in demanding high-temperature and chemical environments, such as semiconductor manufacturing and oil and gas.

4. Fluorosilicone (FVMQ):

  - Temperature Range: FVMQ materials can handle temperatures up to 356°F (180°C).

  - Advantages: Good high-temperature resistance, flexibility, and resistance to oils and fuels.

  - Applications: Suitable for aerospace, automotive, and other applications where a combination of temperature and chemical resistance is required.

The best O-ring material for high-temperature applications varies depending on the specific temperature range, chemical exposure, pressure, and other environmental factors. It's essential to consult with a material expert or O-ring manufacturer to select the most suitable material for your particular application to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Additionally, consider the specific grade and formulation of the elastomer material to match the requirements of your high-temperature application.

The term "strongest" when referring to O-ring materials can mean different things depending on the specific requirements of the application, such as resistance to chemicals, temperature extremes, pressure, or wear and tear. There is no single "strongest" O-ring material that suits all applications; instead, the best material depends on the specific conditions the O-ring will be exposed to. Here are some materials considered strong in various aspects:

1. FKM (Fluoroelastomer, e.g., Viton): Known for excellent chemical resistance, especially to oils, fuels, and some acids, and high-temperature tolerance (up to about 225°C or 437°F). It is often considered one of the strongest materials in terms of chemical and heat resistance.

2. FFKM (Perfluoroelastomer, e.g., Canrez®, Kalrez, Chemraz): Offers even higher chemical and temperature resistance than standard FKM. It can withstand temperatures up to 335°C (635°F) and almost all chemicals. FFKM O-rings are often used in extremely harsh chemical and thermal environments.

3. Nitrile Rubber (NBR, Buna-N): Offers excellent resistance to oils and petroleum-based fluids. It's a strong choice for applications involving oil and fuel exposure.

4. EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer): Has outstanding resistance to weathering, ozone, UV rays, and aging, as well as good heat and steam resistance. It's a strong material for outdoor and water/steam applications.

5. Silicone: Exhibits excellent flexibility and is resistant to extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. It's a strong choice for applications requiring temperature resistance over a wide range.

6. Polyurethane: Known for its excellent wear and tear resistance, making it a strong material for high-pressure hydraulic systems and applications involving abrasion.

Each of these materials has its strengths in specific areas, and the choice of material should be based on the application's requirements, including exposure to chemicals, temperature, pressure, and wear. In some highly demanding applications, specialized O-ring materials like FFKM might be necessary due to their superior resistance qualities, despite their higher cost.