When selecting valves with different O-ring materials, the temperature range primarily depends on the elastomer or polymer used. Here’s a breakdown of our O-ring materials and applications.
Summary Table
| Material | Low Temp (°F/°C) | High Temp (°F/°C) | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| FKM | -15°F (-26°C) | 400°F (204°C) | High-temp, oil, chemical resistance |
| Neoprene | -40°F (-40°C) | 250°F (121°C) | Water, refrigerants, weather resistance |
| Buna-N | -40°F (-40°C) | 250°F (121°C) | Oil, fuels, water |
| EPDM | -65°F (-54°C) | 300°F (149°C) | Water, steam, outdoor use |
| Silicone | -80°F (-62°C) | 450°F (232°C) | High/low temp, static sealing |
| Teflon (PTFE) | -320°F (-195°C) | 500°F (260°C) | Extreme temps, aggressive chemicals |
1. FKM (Viton®)
- Temperature Range: -15°F to 400°F (-26°C to 204°C)
- Special Grades: Low-temperature versions can handle as low as -40°F (-40°C); short bursts up to 500°F (260°C).
- Applications: High-temperature environments, oil, fuel, and chemical resistance.
2. Neoprene (CR)
- Temperature Range: -40°F to 250°F (-40°C to 121°C)
- Applications: Moderate temperature resistance, good for refrigerants, water, oils, and weathering applications. Avoid strong acids and aromatic fuels.
3. Buna-N (Nitrile)
- Temperature Range: -40°F to 250°F (-40°C to 121°C)
- Special Grades: High-temperature nitrile can handle up to 275°F (135°C).
- Applications: Excellent oil, fuel, and water resistance. Not ideal for ozone or strong chemicals.
4. EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
- Temperature Range: -65°F to 300°F (-54°C to 149°C)
- Applications: Excellent for water, steam, and outdoor applications (UV, ozone resistance). Not recommended for petroleum-based oils or fuels.
5. Silicone (VMQ)
- Temperature Range: -80°F to 450°F (-62°C to 232°C)
- Applications: High-temperature, low-temperature flexibility, and excellent for static sealing applications. Not recommended for dynamic sealing with high wear.
6. Teflon (PTFE)
- Temperature Range: -320°F to 500°F (-195°C to 260°C)
- Applications: Outstanding chemical resistance and extreme temperature tolerance. Ideal for aggressive chemicals, steam, and food-grade applications. Teflon has low flexibility, making it better suited for static seals.