In the world of engineering and manufacturing, material selection plays a pivotal role in determining the performance and longevity of components. When it comes to sealing applications, two commonly used materials are Fluorocarbon and Viton®. In this blog post, we'll delve into the differences between these materials, their properties, and their applications.

Fluorocarbon

Fluorocarbon, also known as FKM (fluoroelastomer), is a synthetic rubber material known for its exceptional chemical resistance and temperature tolerance. It is derived from fluorinated hydrocarbons and is highly resistant to oils, fuels, acids, and a wide range of chemicals. Fluorocarbon exhibits excellent mechanical properties, including high tensile strength, tear resistance, and low compression set. These properties make it a preferred choice for demanding sealing applications in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and chemical processing.

Viton®

Viton® is a brand name for fluoroelastomer compounds developed by the Chemours Company. It is a type of Fluorocarbon material specifically formulated for enhanced performance in sealing applications. Viton® offers similar chemical resistance and temperature stability as Fluorocarbon but is optimized for improved sealing effectiveness, especially in dynamic sealing applications where flexibility and resilience are critical. Viton® compounds are available in various grades tailored to specific operating conditions, such as high temperatures, aggressive chemicals, or low-temperature flexibility requirements.

Fluorocarbon vs. Viton®

1. Composition: Fluorocarbon is a general term for fluoroelastomer materials, while Viton specifically refers to fluoroelastomer compounds developed by Chemours. Viton® is a type of Fluorocarbon, but not all Fluorocarbon materials are Viton®.
    
2. Performance: While both Fluorocarbon and Viton® offer excellent chemical resistance and temperature tolerance, Viton® is often formulated with additives and modifiers to enhance its sealing performance, flexibility, and resilience in dynamic applications.
    
3. Applications: Fluorocarbon materials, including Viton®, find widespread use in sealing applications across various industries, including automotive, aerospace, oil and gas, and chemical processing. However, Viton® is often preferred for critical sealing applications where superior sealing performance is required, such as in high-temperature environments or with exposure to aggressive chemicals.

Summary

Fluorocarbon and Viton® are both highly versatile materials known for their exceptional chemical resistance and temperature stability, making them ideal for sealing applications in demanding industrial environments. While Fluorocarbon encompasses a broad range of fluoroelastomer materials, Viton® stands out as a specialized formulation optimized for enhanced sealing performance. Understanding the differences between these materials is crucial for selecting the most suitable option for specific application requirements, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.