Question: Which is better Viton or Buna?
Answer:
Viton and Buna-N (Nitrile Butadiene Rubber) are both elastomers that are commonly used as sealing materials. Both materials have their own unique set of properties and advantages, and the choice between them depends on the specific requirements of the application.
Viton is a fluoroelastomer that is known for its excellent chemical resistance to a wide range of fluids, including fuels, oils, and solvents. It also has high temperature resistance, with a maximum continuous service temperature of up to 200°C. Viton seals are commonly used in applications where exposure to harsh chemicals and high temperatures is a concern, such as in the chemical processing and oil and gas industries.
On the other hand, Buna-N is a more economical elastomer that has good resistance to oils and hydrocarbons, but is not as chemically resistant as Viton. It also has a lower temperature range than Viton, with a maximum continuous service temperature of up to 100°C. Buna-N seals are commonly used in applications where chemical resistance is not a primary concern, such as in the automotive and industrial industries.
Therefore, neither material is inherently “better” than the other, as their properties and advantages are application-dependent. The choice between Viton and Buna-N (or any other elastomer) should be made based on the specific requirements of the application, including the type of fluids being sealed, the temperature range of the application, and other factors such as cost and availability.