Trade Names: Viton (E.I. DuPont), Fluorel (3M)

Fluoroelastomer rubber, commonly known as Viton, is a high-performance material designed to withstand extreme environments. It excels in conditions involving various oils and petroleum products, high vacuum systems, ozone exposure, weathering, elevated temperatures, and strong acids. Due to its exceptional properties, Viton is widely used in sealing applications such as gaskets, O-rings, and pump seals.

Viton offers outstanding resistance to petroleum-based fluids and exhibits a very low compression set, making it an ideal choice for handling and transporting chemicals, fuels, and other aggressive substances. Its broad chemical compatibility ensures versatility across multiple industries, including automotive, aerospace, and industrial manufacturing.

Advantages

Performance in Harsh Conditions

Viton is specifically engineered to perform reliably under extreme conditions. It can endure high temperatures, harsh chemicals, and high oxygen environments without degrading. Its resistance to abrasion and tearing makes it a top choice for critical sealing components like O-rings and gaskets that are often exposed to mechanical stress and chemical exposure. In addition to durability, Viton maintains its integrity when in contact with a wide range of chemicals, which is why it's a preferred material in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and industrial equipment manufacturing.

Resistance to Oil and Petroleum Products

The oil and petroleum industry heavily relies on Viton due to its excellent resistance to a variety of fluids, including crude oil, gasoline, hydraulic fluids, and even vegetable oils. This makes it suitable for use in seals, gaskets, and other components that come into regular contact with these substances. Viton’s ability to resist degradation from these materials ensures long-lasting performance and reduces the risk of leaks or failures in critical systems.

Disadvantages

Sensitivity to Acetone, Methyl Solvents, and Organic Acids

While Viton performs exceptionally well against many common chemicals, it is not suitable for all environments. It has limited resistance to solvents such as acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, and certain organic acids. Exposure to these substances can cause swelling, softening, or deterioration of the material, which may lead to failure in applications where these chemicals are present. Therefore, it's important to carefully evaluate the chemical environment before selecting Viton for a specific use case.

In summary, Viton is a highly durable and versatile fluoroelastomer that excels in harsh and chemically aggressive environments. However, its suitability depends on the specific application and the types of chemicals involved. Proper material selection is crucial to ensure optimal performance and longevity in demanding industrial settings.