Greene Tweed fluoroelastomer seals ‘compatible’ with new aviation fuels

Lansdale, Pennsylvania –Greene Tweed has confirmed the compatibility of its fluorine-based elastomer seals with sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), the company announced 12 June.

While SAFs offer CO2 reductions of over 65% compared to traditional jet fuels challenges with seal compatibility remain, said Greene Tweed – reporting the results of tests on the performance of its seals with such fuels.

The US sales manufacturer said it collaborated with multiple suppliers to evaluate SAF blends and their effects on the physical properties of fluorine-based elastomers FKM and FVMQ.

The study assessed performance in SAF blends, including synthetic paraffinic kerosene (SPK) and synthetic aromatic kerosene (SAK), following ASTM D7566 standards.

Testing simulated extreme aerospace environments, including temperatures up to 120°C and prolonged SAF exposure.

The study showed that: FKM compounds maintained performance across blends, including three SPKs, 50/50 blends with control fluid, and 20% SAK with 80% SPKs; and showed strong compatibility with harsh SAF conditions, including fluid aging and dry-out scenarios.

“By analysing the effects of chemical interactions between SAF blends and advanced elastomers, we have developed a robust data set that established long-term reliability and compatibility in extreme aerospace conditions,” noted Ronald Campbell, senior technical advisor.

"Sustainable aviation fuels offer a practical path to reducing emissions, particularly for long-haul flights, where batteries and hydrogen remain less feasible,” added Shawn McCloskey, Greene Tweed chief commercial officer.

“Our study ensures aerospace customers have reliable seal solutions for SAF adoption without compromising safety or performance.”

Image source: Huebner