Chemical Resistant O-Rings

Chemical Resistant O-ring Materials:

• Perfluorinated (FFKM)
• Tetrafluoroethylene-Propylene
• Fluorocarbon (FKM, VITON®)

The materials listed have the widest relative chemical resistance. When selecting an o-ring material for your application, it is important to identify all the specific chemical exposures. Chemicals can present themselves in many forms, the obvious is the medium being sealed, but any external exposure is just as important to the life of your sealing system.

What Causes O-ring Chemical Failure?

When an o-ring material is exposed to incompatible chemicals, it often results in a hard and brittle material, with a reduced ability to provide a reaction force. Chain scission is also possible, resulting in a reduced strength.

Chemical swell is caused by the ingress of media into the elastomer, as the result of a chemical similarity between the compound and the media. The increased seal volume can lead to gland fill, extrusion and loss of sealing. Chemical swell can also result in a loss of physical properties such as tensile strength.

Chemical attack is accelerated at elevated temperatures and when elastomer seals are under stress, as a result of, for example, excessive stretch or squeeze, and mechanical conditions.

Chemical Compatibility Table

Need an easy way to look up recommended material for your application?

• Adjust operating temperatures & durometer to fit your application parameters.
• The tool will filter suitable materials.
• Select a chemical to see the exposure rating for each.