Viton vs Nitrile vs EPDM: Which Material to Choose?
Detailed comparison of the three most popular O-Ring materials. Discover which is best for your application based on temperature, chemistry and cost.
Material Comparison Chart
| Property | Nitrilo (NBR) | Viton® (FKM) | EPDM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Min Temp | -40°C | -20°C | -50°C |
| Max Temp | 120°C | 200°C | 150°C |
| Oils/Fuels | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Very good | ❌ Not recommended |
| Steam/Water | ❌ Not recommended | ❌ Not recommended | ✅ Excellent |
| Cost | $ | $$$ | $$ |
Which Material to Choose?
Choose Nitrile (NBR) if:
- Application with oils or fuels
- Moderate temperatures (-40°C to 120°C)
- Limited budget - it's the most economical
- General use in hydraulics and pneumatics
Choose Viton® (FKM) if:
- Aggressive chemicals or high temperature
- Chemical or petrochemical industry
- High temperatures (up to 200°C)
- High pressure required
Choose EPDM if:
- Application with steam or hot water
- Brake fluids
- Food or pharmaceutical industry
- Low temperatures (down to -50°C)
Still Have Questions?
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