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Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-09-08 Origin: Site
In sealing, there's no "one-size-fits-all" material. Choosing the most suitable O-ring material is critical for long-term reliability. Here’s a quick guide to four industry workhorses.
1. NBR (Nitrile Butadiene Rubber) - The All-Rounder
Key Strengths: Excellent resistance to petroleum-based oils, fuels, and mineral oils; good abrasion resistance; cost-effective.
Typical Applications: Fuel systems, hydraulic oil, lubricants, water glycol. One of the most common seals in automotive and machinery.
Limitations: Poor resistance to ozone, weathering, and polar solvents (e.g., ketones, esters).
2. FKM (Fluoroelastomer) - The High-Performance Expert
Key Strengths: Exceptional resistance to high temperatures (up to 200°C+), chemicals (including fuels, oils, acids, and many solvents), and excellent weathering.
Typical Applications: High-temperature fuel systems, chemical processing, aerospace, automotive engine compartments.
Limitations: Higher cost; moderate low-temperature performance; poor resistance to ketones and esters.
3. EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) - The Steam & Weather Warrior
Key Strengths: Outstanding resistance to ozone, weathering, and aging; excellent with steam, hot water, and brake fluids (DOT 3/4).
Typical Applications: Automotive cooling systems, hot water/steam applications, outdoor electrical enclosures, brake systems.
Limitations: Not recommended for petroleum-based oils or fuels. Avoid in hydrocarbon environments.
4. VMQ (Silicone) - The Extreme Temperature Specialist
Key Strengths: Extremely wide temperature range (-60°C to +225°C); excellent flexibility and inertness; non-toxic and odorless.
Typical Applications: Food & medical equipment, high-temperature air seals, lighting, appliance gaskets.
Limitations: Low mechanical strength (poor abrasion and tear resistance); poor resistance to fuels and petroleum oils.
Quick Selection Guide:
Oil Resistance: NBR > FKM > EPDM/Silicone
Heat Resistance: FKM > Silicone > EPDM > NBR
Weather Resistance: EPDM > FKM > Silicone > NBR
Cost-Effectiveness: NBR > EPDM > FKM > Silicone
Still Not Sure?
Contact our technical experts. Describe your application, media, temperature, and pressure, and we will recommend the perfect, cost-effective sealing solution for you.
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