Both Viton™ and nitrile o rings, two of the most widely used elastomers, offer some great qualities. Both have a wide range of usage in both industrial and domestic applications and deliver outstanding compression set. It's crucial to understand which of these two well-liked materials is superior for a given application because not all things are equal amongst them.
This blog post compares nitrile and Viton o rings to learn when and why each should be used.
Nitrile O-Ring
Nitrile o rings, often known as NBR or Buna-N, are arguably the most affordable and commonly used elastomer available. Low compression set, high abrasion resistance, and exceptional tensile strength are just a few of the material's attractive qualities.
Effective Temperature Range: -40°C to 120°C
Suitability: General-purpose, especially in locations where the seal may be exposed to hydrocarbons, lubricants, gasoline, water, and hydraulic fluids
Benefits: Excellent tear and abrasion resistance; economical
Limitations: Nitrile has a poor ability to tolerate ozone or environmental deterioration.
Nitrile O-rings are used in a variety of applications, such as those requiring oil resistance or low temperature operation. These include automobile, marine, and fuel systems for airplanes.
VitonTM O Rings
Like Hoover or Sellotape, the name Viton is a trademark that refers to fluorocarbon o rings, also known as FKM/FPM. This material can withstand high temperatures well and is resistant to solvents, aromatics, fuels, oils, and hydraulic fluids.
There are different kinds of FKM/FPM/Standard o-ring-Supplier available with different amounts of fluorine additives that improve performance in particular situations.
Effective Temperature Range: -40 to 250 degrees Celsius
Suitability: Good for usage in environments with high temperatures or when chemicals are being used. Viton™ is resistant to mineral acids, halogenated hydrocarbons, and more besides oils, gasoline, and other hydrocarbons.
Benefits: Resistant to most chemicals as well as degradation by weather, UV rays, ozone, and mold.
Limitations: Minimal tolerance to cold temperatures.
FKM/FPM o rings are used in a wide range of applications, including those for aircraft engines and automobile parts, especially when resistance to corrosive liquids and fuels is essential. Due to its low compression set properties and chemical resistance, this material is excellent for usage in high temperature environments.
Which is Better for O-rings—VitonTM or Nitrile?
Looking at these two O-ring materials side by side, it is easy to understand some situations where, choosing between VitonTM and nitrile O-rings will be an obvious choice. Nitrile, for instance, won't be appropriate if you know your assembly operates at temperatures higher than 100°C. Nitrile will likely degrade and present a danger of failure if your assembly is likely to be exposed to the elements, UV, or ozone.
With the exception of operation in sub-zero temperatures, VitonTM/FKM/FPM is always preferable to nitrile.
The Nutshell
After reading this blog post you will be better informed about the two most common O-ring materials available on the market today. That being said, with the help of using this information, you can make the right decision with regards to, which material is better for O-rings.
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