NBR vs Viton/FKM | Which is More Suitable for Application?

Choosing the right sealing material for your application can be quite challenging. The two primary materials to consider are NBR (Nitrile Butadiene Rubber) and Viton (Fluoroelastomer). Both of these materials have their own unique properties and are widely used in industries where resistance to oils, chemicals, and extreme temperatures is crucial.
However, selecting the right one for your needs can be confusing, unless you understand its specific differences. To help you out, we have come up with essential comparing NBR to Viton thereby so you can make informed decision based on individual requirements.

Temperature Resistance

Performance of NBR in Different Temperature Ranges

NBR, or Nitrile Butadiene Rubber, performs well in moderate temperature ranges. If your application involves temperatures between -40°C to 100°C (-40°F to 212°F), NBR can be a reliable choice. It maintains flexibility and resilience within this range, making it suitable for many automotive, industrial, and household applications. However, if you’re dealing with extreme heat or cold, NBR may begin to degrade, losing its elasticity and effectiveness over time. This limitation makes it less ideal for applications involving continuous exposure to high temperatures.

Performance of Viton in Different Temperature Ranges

Viton, on the other hand, excels in extreme temperature conditions. If your work environment subjects materials to temperatures ranging from -20°C to 200°C (-4°F to 392°F), Viton is likely your best bet. Its fluorinated structure allows it to maintain integrity and performance in both high and low temperatures, without significant changes in physical properties. Whether you’re operating in a high-temperature industrial setting or a cold environment, Viton’s superior thermal stability ensures long-lasting performance, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Chemical Resistance

NBR’s Resistance to Oils, Fuels, and Chemicals

NBR is a great choice if you use oils, fuels or particular chemicals since it has high resistance levels. It is especially useful when petroleum-based oils and fuels are involved as well as throughout the automotive and aerospace industries because they don’t break easily. However, NBR’s resistance against chemicals does come with some concerns. For instance, under such conditions as exposure with aggressive acids, ozone or particular hydrocarbons NBR will start to swell; crack or slim chance even totally degrade making seals ineffective.

Viton’s Resistance to Oils, Fuels, and Chemicals

On the other hand, Viton performs excellently under extremely high or low temperatures. It is probably Viton that would be the best option for a job that puts materials through a temperature range of between -20 degrees Celsius and 200 degrees Celsius (-4 degrees Fahrenheit to 392 degrees Fahrenheit). This is due to its fluorinated structure which can withstand extreme polarities during high and low thermochemical processes makes everything undergo important changes in physical property. Whether you are working in high-temperature industrial situations or cold ones, there will be little need for frequent replacements because of Viton’s exceptional thermal stability.

TYS provides both nitrile rubber and viton/FKM seals. We use high-grade raw materials to make them. You can learn more about these two materials from our product page.

Seals and o-ring

FAQS

  1. How to tell whether my seals are made of NBR or Viton?
    Without doing a lab test, it can be nearly impossible to determine whether an existing seal ismade of NBR or Viton. However, you can try using a durometer to gauge the Shore A level ofthe seal, as well as consult the seal’s manufacturer.
    2.What seal material is best for a vacuum system?
    In a system void of air and other gasses, Viton is generally the preferred seal material for itsimpermeability and resistance to breakdown.in less demanding situations, NBR, silicone, orbutyl rubber can suffice
    3.Which is more expensive, NBR or Viton?
    The exact price difference between NBR and Viton depends on the specific compound. Thatsaid, NBR, which is more widely used in various applications, is cheaper than Viton.

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