Elastomer Seal Material Selection Guide
Choosing the right elastomer for seals, O-rings, and gaskets in chemical service requires matching the elastomer's chemical resistance profile to the service media, temperature, and pressure.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Property | FKM (Viton) | NBR (Nitrile) | EPDM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature Range | -20 to +200°C | -30 to +120°C | -50 to +150°C |
| Fuel/Oil Resistance | Excellent | Good | Poor |
| Acid Resistance | Excellent | Fair | Good |
| Steam Resistance | Poor | Poor | Excellent |
| Ozone Resistance | Excellent | Fair | Excellent |
| Price (raw gum, USD/kg) | $22–45 | $3–6 | $4–8 |
Quick Selection Rules
- Hydrocarbon fuels/oils → FKM or NBR (FKM preferred for hot service)
- Steam/hot water → EPDM (never FKM)
- Strong acids (H₂SO₄, HNO₃) → FKM (high-fluorine terpolymer)
- Ketones/esters (MEK, ethyl acetate) → EPDM (FKM and NBR swell)
- Amines/caustic → EPDM
- Budget, <100°C, petroleum → NBR
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