High-Temperature Viton® Rubber Ball Guide
High-Temperature Viton® Rubber Ball Guide
Viton® (FKM) rubber balls are used in check valves, metering pumps, and relief systems where heat, chemicals, and pressure exceed the capabilities of nitrile or EPDM. This guide outlines formulation tips, tolerance control, and validation tests for demanding applications.
## Performance Summary
| Parameter | Typical Value | Engineering Notes |
| — | — | — |
| Continuous temperature | -20 °C to +200 °C | Up to +230 °C short excursions; consider FFKM above this |
| Chemical resistance | Aromatic hydrocarbons, acids, solvents | Avoid high concentrations of ketones/amines unless using specialty grades |
| Compression set | ≤25 % @ 200 °C (post-cured) | Post-cure critical for high-temperature service |
| Hardness | 70–90 Shore A | 80 A common for check-ball applications |
| Specific gravity | 1.8–2.0 | Influences buoyancy and response time |
## Formulation & Manufacturing Tips
– **Polymer choice**: select Type A Viton for general chemicals; Type B or F for improved base resistance.
– **Fillers**: carbon black (medium-high structure) for wear resistance; consider PTFE or graphite for lubrication.
– **Cure system**: peroxide cures improve compression set and hydrolytic stability; post-cure at 230 °C for 24 h to remove residual volatiles.
– **Tolerance control**: compression or transfer molding with precision cavities; grind or lap surfaces if extremely tight tolerance is required.
– **Surface finish**: ensure uniform skin with minimal flash; trim carefully to avoid flat spots that compromise sealing.
## Application Checklist
1. **Pressure & flow direction** – calculate required closing force and check ball weight; heavier compounds may need spring assistance.
2. **Seat design** – match ball radius and seat chamfer to ensure line contact; consider PTFE seats for aggressive chemicals.
3. **Temperature cycling** – confirm values using FEA or testing; repeated thermal shocks can change response time.
4. **Chemical compatibility** – review media list; for amine or mixed chemical service, evaluate specialty FKM (e.g., Viton GF).
5. **Cleaning & maintenance** – plan for CIP/SIP cycles; confirm compression set recovery after cleaning.
## Validation Tests
– Dimensional inspection per ISO 48 or customer specification.
– Compression set (ASTM D395) at operating temperature.
– Chemical immersion testing for primary media (ASTM D471).
– Dynamic endurance in representative flow/pressure rig.
– Outgassing tests when used in high vacuum or semiconductor processes.
## Related Resources
– [Viton FKM Material Guide](/materials/viton-fkm/)
– [High-Temperature FKM Specifications](/materials/high-temperature-fkm-o-ring-specifications/)
– [Custom Manufacturing](/services/custom-manufacturing/) – custom tooling and production for FKM check balls.
Need assistance balancing weight, chemical resistance, and response time? Submit process media, temperature, and valve geometry via the [custom quote form](/quote/custom/) to receive a tailored recommendation within 48 hours.
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