PFAS – per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances – are an increasingly important consideration for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), but the issue is deeper than simply “PFAS are being banned.” Regulations are evolving at federal, state and international levels, and the impact on a particular product depends on the material, marketplace and how it is used.
For manufacturers using rubber seals, gaskets and hoses, begin by understanding where PFAS may already be present. Certain high-performance elastomers are classified as PFAS under some regulatory definitions, including fluorocarbon, fluorosilicone and perfluoroelastomer. These materials are important because they can provide resistance to temperature, chemicals, fuels and aggressive fluids.
That doesn’t mean every seal, gasket or hose needs to be replaced. For example, fluoropolymers and fluorinated elastomers may provide properties that are difficult to duplicate with other materials, particularly in extreme environments.
Understand the Regulatory Timeline
For U.S. manufacturers and importers, one important development is EPA’s PFAS reporting requirement under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). The rule covers companies that manufactured or imported PFAS or PFAS-containing articles during specified years, with reporting requirements covering information such as uses, volumes, disposal and exposure. EPA has continued to revise the implementation timeline; as of April 2026, the agency said it was moving the reporting start date to 60 days after a forthcoming revision to the rule.
In Europe, ECHA is evaluating potential PFAS restrictions under REACH, including specific consideration of sealing materials and machinery components. Ideas being considered include different transition periods depending on whether technically viable alternatives are available.
For OEMs, the message is: don’t panic, but don’t wait.
Start With Your Application, Not the Material
A practical PFAS strategy begins with a component and material inventory. Identify seals, gaskets, O-rings and hoses that may contain fluorinated elastomers, then document their operating temperature, pressure, chemical exposure, compression requirements, service life and applicable certifications.
Then, work with a qualified materials and molding partner to determine if a non-PFAS alternative can deliver the required performance. Options may include EPDM, silicone, nitrile, urethane or other engineered elastomers. The correct choice should be based on actual service conditions, not the desire to eliminate a particular material.
Make Substitution a Proactive Engineering Project
OEMs can evaluate materials now to reduce future disruption. Communicate with suppliers and seek alternatives before regulations or customer requirements force a rapid change.
Molded Dimensions Group includes material selection as part of the engineering process. Our capabilities include custom molded rubber parts, precision sealing products and complex hoses, with a range of elastomers and manufacturing methods.
PFAS regulations will continue to evolve. OEMs that understand where these materials are used, monitor regulatory developments and evaluate alternatives will be better positioned to make informed, cost-effective decisions.
To learn more, contact the Molded Dimensions Group team today.
