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Viton and Fluoroelastomer Gaskets Differences Between NBR and FKM Materials

author: Qishine Industry
2025-01-05

One-Minute Overview

  • Viton is an FKM fluoroelastomer that resists heat, chemicals, and oil.
  • FKM suits high-temperature and aggressive-chemical service.
  • NBR is the low-cost choice for oil, fuel, and hydrocarbon duty.
  • FKM costs more than NBR but lasts longer in harsh media.

Viton and Fluoroelastomer Gaskets: An Introduction

Viton and fluoroelastomer gaskets are two of the most popular sealing materials in industry. Viton is a synthetic rubber highly resistant to heat, chemicals, and oils, so it suits harsh environments. Fluoroelastomer is an elastomer built from fluoropolymers that shares the same heat, chemical, and oil resistance. Both serve automotive to aerospace duty and are known for performance and durability. When selecting the right gasket material, the key comparison is between NBR and FKM.

The Benefits of Viton Fluoroelastomer Gaskets

Viton fluoroelastomer gaskets are valued for performance in extreme temperatures, chemical resistance, and long-term durability. The synthetic rubber resists extreme temperatures, chemicals, and environmental factors such as ozone and UV, so it fits automotive, aerospace, chemical processing, and outdoor service. It also resists compression set, holding shape and performance over long periods, and it resists abrasion and wear, so it stands up where maintenance is frequent.

NBR vs FKM: Choosing the Right Elastomer Gasket

Elastomer gaskets seal two surfaces and are made from materials such as NBR and FKM. NBR (nitrile butadiene rubber) resists oil, fuel, and other hydrocarbons, and also water and steam, so it is a popular, low-cost choice for automotive and industrial work. FKM (fluorocarbon rubber, sold as Viton) resists a wide range of chemicals including acids, bases, and solvents, and high temperatures, making it the choice where heat and aggressive chemicals are present. FKM costs more than NBR, so it is specified only where the media demand it. For sealing a flange face, match NBR to oil and fuel lines and FKM to chemical and high-temperature lines.

Chemical Compatibility of Fluoroelastomer Rubber

Fluoroelastomer rubber is a copolymer of vinylidene fluoride and hexafluoropropylene, widely used in sealing for its chemical compatibility. It resists acids, bases, and solvents, as well as oxidation, ozone, and UV, so it fits harsh environments. Fillers can tune the resistance further: carbon black boosts acid resistance and silica boosts base resistance. Beyond chemistry, fluoroelastomer resists abrasion, compression, and tearing, and it holds up across temperature extremes, which makes it a strong all-round sealing material.

FAQ

What is fluoroelastomer (FKM)?

A synthetic elastomer made from fluoropolymers, highly resistant to heat, chemicals, and oils. Viton is a well-known FKM grade.

What is the difference between Viton and fluoroelastomer gaskets?

Viton is a grade of fluoroelastomer (FKM). Both resist heat, chemicals, and oil; Viton grades are typically specified for the highest temperature and the broadest chemical resistance.

What are the advantages of NBR gaskets?

Excellent resistance to oil, fuel, and hydrocarbons, plus water and steam. They resist abrasion, hold compression set well, and are inexpensive and easy to install.

What are the advantages of FKM gaskets?

Excellent resistance to high temperature, chemicals, and solvents, and to ozone and UV for outdoor use. They also resist compression set and seal strongly, though they cost more than NBR.

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