Viton gaskets, made from a type of fluoroelastomer, are known for their exceptional chemical resistance, particularly to oils, fuels, and a wide range of solvents. They perform well in high-temperature environments, withstanding temperatures up to 400°F (204°C) and, in some cases, even higher. This makes them suitable for applications in the automotive, aerospace, and chemical processing industries.
Compared to other gasket materials like Nitrile (Buna-N), Viton offers superior resistance to heat and chemicals, though Nitrile is more cost-effective and performs adequately in lower temperature and less chemically aggressive environments. Silicone gaskets, while also heat resistant, do not match Viton's chemical resistance, making Viton preferable in applications involving aggressive chemicals.
EPDM gaskets excel in weather, ozone, and UV resistance, making them ideal for outdoor applications, but they lack the chemical resistance that Viton provides. Neoprene gaskets offer good weather and ozone resistance and are more affordable, but they do not perform as well as Viton in high-temperature or chemically aggressive environments.
PTFE gaskets, known for their excellent chemical resistance and non-reactivity, can handle a broader range of chemicals than Viton but are not as flexible and have a lower temperature range. Graphite gaskets are excellent for high-temperature applications and offer good chemical resistance, but they are more brittle compared to Viton.
In summary, Viton gaskets are preferred in applications requiring high temperature and chemical resistance, though they are generally more expensive than other materials. The choice of gasket material ultimately depends on the specific requirements of the application, including temperature, chemical exposure, and cost considerations.