Written on 16.07.2012 - Technology
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Liquid ACM for filigree seal geometries

The finely structured L-ACM seal is applied to both surfaces of the substrate and can be used in engine sealing applications.

Freudenberg Sealing Technologies has developed a new liquid ACM (L-ACM), combining the properties of high-resistance solid rubber and liquid silicone rubber (LSR). According to the company, the new sealing material is much less viscous than standard ACM and can be processed like LSR.

At the same time, it has chemical resistance and swelling behaviour properties that are similar to those of standard ACM. Freudenberg says L-ACM offers the possibility to create new sealing shapes that are characterised by their filigree structures. The material also makes it possible to exploit to an even greater degree the system- and process-related advantages of elastomer processing in the form of multi-component parts, says the company.

The prototype component shown illustrates the advantages of L-ACM. The zinc phosphated sheet metal is used in an engine and also assumes a sealing function. The L-ACM adheres to the substrate. The seal is applied to both sides of the metal in one step. This is achieved by creating points through which the material can flow. One of these points can be seen on the left-hand side of the photo. The thinly structured tracks of L-ACM each measure only about 150 µm in height.