How Important is Chemical Compatability with Your Seals and O-rings?

Chemical compatibility should play a major role in the compound you select for your seal.  This decision is just as critical as determining size, temperature and pressure range, profile shape, etc. for a particular application.

Did you know that Nitrile will break down very quickly in gasoline?  Viton is the recommended compound to use with gasoline. EPR or EPDM is definitely not recommended with gasoline but can be used with glycol type brake fluid (DOT 3). Polyurethane is never recommended for use with water. 

There are numerous types of Freon and no one o-ring or seal material works for all types. Nitrile is okay for Freon 114, but definitely not recommended with Freon 31. EPDM is recommended for Freon 31, but not recommended for Freon MF (R11).

And just in case you have a container of mustard gas on hand, the only recommended material to use with this poisonous gas is Viton.

The Rocket Seals website, www.rocketseals.com has chart showing Chemical Compatibilty to aid you in selecting the correct material. Check the chart to choose the right material, so your seals last as long as possible. Failing seals lead to downtime and extra expense every time they have to be changed, so choosing the right material will save you time and money.

If you need help selecting the right material, contact any one of our experienced staff at Rocket Seals for help.

At Rocket Seals we think about seals and O-rings all the time, so you don’t have to.