Life Time Prediction of Elastomer for Automotive Vapor Fuel Hose

In this study, life time prediction of fluoroelastomer for automotive vapor fuel hose was investigated using the accelerated thermal aging test. The change in hardness of fluoroelastomer was analyzed as physical parameters for the accelerated life time prediction model. The accelerated aging test was performed at temperatures of 160, 175, 190, and 200 degrees C, and it was confirmed that the hardness gradually increased with the aging time. The accelerated life time pre-diction model was conducted using the curve fitting method and the cumulative density function method based on the Arrhenius relationship. As a result of life time prediction of ternary fluoroelastomer, the curve fitting method showed 5170 hours and the cumulative density function method showed 5577 hours. The activation energy calculated from life time prediction model of fluoroelastomer was ca. 86 kJ mol(-1). The accelerated life time prediction model could be used to predict the relative life time according to material changes.