EPDM vs Viton
EPDM and Viton are similar materials that are both used in the production of industrial seals, gaskets, and other industrial rubber parts. EPDM is best known for its outstanding environmental resistance capabilities and is a popularly used material in outdoor industrial settings. Viton, on the other hand, is a well-known fluorelastomer that is used for highly corrosive or abrasive applications that are too harsh for other synthetic rubbers. EPDM is better suited for outdoor applications rather than chemically corrosive applications because, although the EPDM is chemical-resistant, Viton is more likely to provide a sturdier application to a wider range of solvents.
The best way to tell the difference between EPDM and Viton is through their compatibility in different applications. Although they share similar resistance properties to outdoor conditions, they have different resistance properties to temperature and chemicals. EPDM has a working temperature range of -40 to 212 degrees Fahrenheit and Viton has a working temperature range of -40 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Generally, Viton is used in harsher and more abrasive environments with higher temperatures and stronger solvents, including oil and diesel fuel. However, there are some chemicals that are damaging to Viton that will not affect EPDM, such as acetone and formaldehyde.
Despite the lack of oil-resistance of EPDM, both EPDM and Viton are exceptionally durable synthetic elastomers. Both a Viton or EPDM rubber part can be used in the outdoors without worrying about the damage caused by UV rays and ozone. Apart from these similarities, Viton and EPDM are two different materials. Viton is a fluoroelastomer that is better resistant to harsher solvents whereas an EPDM is mainly valued for its outdoor resistance properties.
For a more in-depth explanation of EPDM rubber, click the link below to read our article!
