What Is Viton?
VITON® O-rings are sealing elements used in a wide range of applications to prevent leaks of liquids or gases in mechanical systems. They are designed in the form of a ring and are placed in a groove between two mated surfaces, usually in a threaded joint or pipe coupling.
VITON® is a brand of FKM/FPM, used in the manufacturing of O-rings. The brand was registered by The Chemours Company (formerly DuPont). It is also known as fluorinated rubber, and its trade name is Viton®.
Why Choose Viton® O-Rings?
Viton® O-rings are seals made from a material called Viton, which is a registered trademark of a class of fluorinated elastomers, also known as FKM (Fluoroelastomers). Viton is known for its excellent resistance to a wide range of chemicals, high temperatures, and adverse conditions. Some of the key features of Viton material for O-rings include:
The composition of Viton® makes it highly resistant to high temperatures. O-rings of this brand can withstand over 200°C without losing their mechanical properties. It is also ideal when used in an industrial process with aggressive chemicals.
In addition to temperature resistance, resistance to aggressive chemical fluids, and a wide range of sizes, there are advantages such as:
- Chemical resistance: Viton has excellent resistance to chemicals such as acids, alcohols, fuels, oils, solvents, and many others. It can maintain its integrity and sealing properties even in chemically harsh environments.
- Wide temperature range: Viton O-rings can effectively function over a wide temperature range, from -20°C to approximately 200°C. This makes them suitable for both low and high-temperature applications.
- Good aging resistance: Viton exhibits excellent resistance to aging caused by prolonged exposure to environmental conditions such as sunlight, ozone, and weather. This ensures an extended service life for Viton O-rings.
- Low permeability: Viton O-rings have low permeability to gases and liquids, making them effective in preventing leaks in sealed systems.
- Flexibility and compressibility: Viton is an elastic and flexible material, making it easy to install and adapt to different surfaces. Its compressibility ensures effective sealing even under varying pressures.
Installation of Viton O-Rings and Other Materials
Comparison with Other Materials
- Viton O-Rings: Known for their excellent chemical resistance, wide temperature range, and resistance to aging. They have low permeability and are used in chemical, petrochemical, automotive, and food processing applications.
- NBR O-Rings (Nitrile): Offer good performance in resisting oils and fuels. They have a more limited temperature range compared to Viton and moderate resistance to aging. NBR O-rings are widely used in industrial and oil sealing applications.
- EPDM O-Rings: Provide good chemical resistance to diluted acids and alcohols and excellent resistance to aging. They are used in water, steam, heating, and cooling systems.
- Silicone O-Rings: Known for their wide temperature range, excellent aging resistance, and resistance to chemicals and solvents. They are used in medical, food, electrical, and electronic applications.
- Rubber O-Rings (natural rubber or SBR): Generally have good chemical resistance but are more vulnerable to oils and solvents. Their temperature range and resistance to aging are more limited compared to fluorinated elastomers. Rubber O-rings are used in general sealing and gasket applications.
In summary, each material has its own characteristics and is used in different applications based on specific requirements for chemical resistance, temperature, and overall performance. Viton stands out for its chemical resistance and temperature capabilities, while other materials find use in various applications based on their particular properties.
Viton® O-Rings and Other Materials at Bultz
At BULTZ, we offer O-rings made from various materials and in a wide range of sizes. If your company needs O-rings for an industrial process, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Sealing Solutions in Spain and Portugal
At BULTZ, we have agreements with prestigious manufacturers in the field of sealing. We provide solutions for both static and dynamic sealing, tailored to each case. Furthermore, with a network of agents and distributors in Spain and Portugal, we are well-acquainted with the specific needs of our customers.
You can visit our website for more information about our brands or contact us to have our technical team advise you on your specific case.