Vulcanizates of several fluoroelastomers, listed in Table 14.1, were exposed to a standard 5W-30 engine oil, ASTM Service Fluid 105, for up to 6 weeks at 150°C (302°F).5 The oil was changed weekly, but was not aerated. Retained elongation was measured after exposure for 1, 2, 3, and 6 weeks; data are shown in Fig. 14.3. The results indicate that bisphenol-cured FKM-A500 VDF/HFP copolymer, FKM-B600 VDF/HFP/TFE terpolymer, and peroxide-cured FEPM-7456 TFE/P/VDF terpolymer lost most of their original elongation over the course of the test exposure, indicating considerable additional cross-linking occurred by reaction with amine- and phenol-containing oil additives. The other fluoroelastomers showed better retention of elongation, being much less susceptible to additional crosslinking. Note that FEPM-7456 contains a high level of VDF (about 30%), while FEPM-7506 contains a relatively low VDF level (10–15%) to serve as cure site for bisphenol curing. The other FEPM types contain no VDF.
Operating temperatures for engine oil seals (see Fig. 14.11 and cross-section of lip seal with garter spring in Fig. 14.22) vary widely, depending on engine design and location within the engine. Typically, the rear crankshaft seal is subjected to much higher temperatures than the front seal. Oil sump temperatures vary considerably, depending on provisions for oil cooling. This allows use of hydrogenated nitrile (HNBR), silicone, or acrylic elastomers for some seals in relatively low-temperature environments (120–140°C or 250–284°F). Standard fluoroelastomers (FKM), bisphenol-cured VDF/HFP/TFE terpolymers with 68–69% fluorine content, perform well in oil service up to about 160°C (320°F). More resistant fluoroelastomers are necessary for reliable long-term performance in more severe environments.