PPAP Level 3: Why Documentation is as Important as the Part itself.
PPAP Level 3: Why Documentation is as Important as the Part itself.
A
RubberQ Engineering
PPAP Level 3: Why Documentation is as Important as the Part Itself
Problem Statement: Compression Set Failure in High-Temperature Seals
Automotive turbocharger seals require stable performance at 200°C and 15 bar pressure. Standard NBR compounds degrade rapidly, losing >40% sealing force after 500 thermal cycles due to polymer chain scission.
Material Science Analysis
FKM outperforms NBR and EPDM in this application due to:
- Fluorine-carbon bonds (68% fluorine content) resist thermal oxidation
- Crosslink density maintains compression set below 20% at 200°C
- ASTM D2000 M6HK 814 A25 B25 E25 F25 classification
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | FKM (Recommended) | NBR (Alternative 1) | EPDM (Alternative 2) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shore A Hardness | 75 ±5 | 70 ±5 | 65 ±5 |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | 18.5 | 14.2 | 9.8 |
| Elongation at Break (%) | 220 | 350 | 400 |
| Compression Set (%, 22h @ 200°C) | 18 | 65 | 45 |
| Continuous Use Temp (°C) | -20 to +230 | -30 to +120 | -50 to +150 |
Standard Compliance
RubberQ's IATF 16949 system ensures:
- Full PPAP Level 3 documentation (Process Flow, PFMEA, Control Plans)
- ISO 16232 cleanliness reports for all molded parts
- ASTM D429 adhesion testing for bonded components
- Lot traceability down to raw material batch numbers
For custom material compound development or IATF 16949 documentation, consult RubberQ's engineering department.
Subscribe to Technical Updates
Receive new material insights and engineering case notes directly by email.