EPDM and FKM compounds to meet demanding challenges around impermeability and in-use conditions

Pinneberg, Germany – Hydrogen offers “enormous potential” as a climate-friendly energy carrier, according to seals manufacturer C. Otto Gehrckens (COG), which is expanding its portfolio for this future-oriented technology

As hydrogen is a colourless, odourless and extremely flammable gas that evaporates easily, seals have a critical role in minimising the danger of escaping gas and avoiding high losses through volatilisation.

COG’s H2Seal series of materials is, therefore, specifically designed for these applications – offering particularly low hydrogen permeability, verified by complex test procedures.

New addition to the range AP 208 (EPDM) is said to “combine the properties of EPDM with hydrogen impermeability that is above average in its class.”

The robust, long-lasting ‘blue compound’ is said to be flexible at low temperatures, with a compression set below 15 % and an operating temperature of right down to minus 55°C.

COG has also added Vi 208 (FKM), which offers the wide-ranging uses of uses of FKM and “excellent H2 impermeability that goes far beyond the normal level expected from a conventional FKM. ”

Good resistance to chemicals and an operating temperature range of minus 10°C to plus 200°C make Vi 208 a “powerful all-rounder for H2 applications,” stated COG.