Silicone rubber

STANDARDASTM D1418 · D2000 (FC, GE)FORMO-ring, seal, liningShort nameVMQ, MQ, PVMQ

A physiologically inert elastomer that stays flexible over a very wide temperature range. Used in food and pharmaceutical applications; low mechanical strength.

HARDNESS: Shore A 40–80
LOW-TEMPERATURE FLEXIBILITY °C: ≈ −54
TEMPERATURE: −55 … +200 °C
COST

Representative sample of silicone (VMQ): O-ring and sheet specimen — REPRESENTATIVE IMAGE · Colour is an industry habit; do not identify the material by its colour.

Chemical compatibility

Mechanical properties

TYPE	Heat resistance °C	Low-temperature flexibility °C	Typical hardness
General-purpose compound	≈ 204 (special grades 260)	≈ −54 (special grades −115)	Shore A 40–80

Service temperature

−55 °C+200 °C−200−1000100200300400500600700800

Media suitability GENERAL TREND

Water

Steam

Mineral oil

Fuel, aliphatic HC

Ozone, outdoor

Dilute acid

Caustic

Ketones, esters

Emsal assessment. The final choice is made from corrosion tables, taking concentration, temperature, chloride content and flow velocity into account.

Strengths and weaknesses

Strengths

The widest temperature range
Resistant to ozone and weathering
Food-grade compounds available

Weaknesses

Low tensile and tear strength, poor wear resistance
Swells in fuels and mineral oils
Limited in steam

Manufacturing and use

ECONOMY: Medium.
MANUFACTURING METHODS: Moulding (compression, injection) · Vulcanization
TYPICAL VALVE PARTS: O-ring · Seal (food)

Used in 3 Emsal products

Source: ASTM D1418 · D2000 (FC, GE). Values compiled and verified by Emsal Vana; for binding values, refer to the current edition of the standard and the material certificate.