Viton, a brand of fluoroelastomer, is known for its exceptional chemical resistance, high-temperature stability, and durability compared to other elastomers. It outperforms many elastomers like nitrile rubber (NBR), ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), and silicone in several key areas.
1. **Chemical Resistance**: Viton offers superior resistance to a wide range of chemicals, including oils, fuels, lubricants, and most mineral acids. This makes it ideal for applications in the automotive, aerospace, and chemical processing industries. In contrast, NBR and EPDM have limited chemical resistance, particularly to hydrocarbons and oils.
2. **Temperature Range**: Viton can withstand temperatures from -20°C to 200°C, with some grades handling even higher temperatures. This is significantly better than NBR, which typically operates between -40°C and 100°C, and EPDM, which ranges from -50°C to 150°C. Silicone elastomers can handle extreme temperatures but lack Viton's chemical resistance.
3. **Durability and Longevity**: Viton exhibits excellent aging characteristics, maintaining its properties over time when exposed to heat, chemicals, and environmental factors. This durability surpasses that of many other elastomers, which may degrade more quickly under similar conditions.
4. **Mechanical Properties**: While Viton provides good mechanical strength and flexibility, it may not match the elasticity of silicone or the abrasion resistance of NBR. However, its overall performance in harsh environments often compensates for these limitations.
5. **Cost**: Viton is generally more expensive than other elastomers like NBR and EPDM. The higher cost is justified by its superior performance in demanding applications, but it may not be cost-effective for less critical uses.
In summary, Viton is a premium elastomer choice for applications requiring high chemical resistance and temperature stability, though it comes at a higher cost compared to other elastomers.