Author
Home > Technology > What is the Difference Between EPDM and Viton?

Guilherme Mazui

•3 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between EPDM and Viton?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

The main differences between EPDM and Viton lie in their temperature resistance, chemical resistance, and cost. Here is a comparison of the two materials:

  • Temperature Resistance: EPDM has a temperature range of -40 to 212 degrees Fahrenheit, while Viton's temperature range is from -20 to 210 degrees Celsius. EPDM performs better in low temperatures, while Viton is better for heat resistance at higher temperatures.
  • Chemical Resistance: Viton, a fluoroelastomer, offers excellent resistance against oils, greases, and petroleum-based solvents, while EPDM is damaged upon exposure to these substances. EPDM has good resistance to hot water, steam, silicone oils, polar solvents like ketones and alcohol, and glycol-based brake fluids.
  • Cost: Viton is generally more expensive than EPDM due to its specialized nature. EPDM is a cost-effective, versatile material, while Viton is a more expensive option for applications that require extreme durability or excellent resistance in hot, corrosive environments.

Both materials have excellent protective properties and tear strength, allowing them to withstand heavy impacts and abrasions. They are both used in the production of gaskets, O-rings, and other industrial components. The choice between EPDM and Viton depends on the specific requirements of the application, including temperature exposure, chemical resistance, and budget.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between EPDM and Viton?
  • Comparative Table: EPDM vs Viton

    • Comparative Table: EPDM vs Viton

    Here is a table comparing the differences between EPDM and Viton:

    Property EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) Viton (Fluorocarbon-based Fluoroelastomer)
    Temperature Range Suitable for higher temperatures Suitable for lower temperatures
    Chemical Resistance Resistant to acids, bases, phosphate ester hydraulic fluids, weathering, sunlight, glycol brake fluids (DOT 3, 4, 5.1), cleaning agents, ketones, some acids, and steam <300ºF Resistant to fuels, mineral oils, vegetable oils, aliphatic hydrocarbons, aromatic hydrocarbons, chlorinated hydrocarbons, non-flammable hydraulic fluids, strong acids, petroleum oils, acetone, halogenated hydrocarbons, di-ester lubricants, vacuum, and most acids
    Durability Available in both dense and sponge forms, but not as dense as Viton Very dense and heavy
    Cost Inexpensive More expensive than EPDM
    Applications Commonly used in roofing for waterproofing and freezer room seals due to its low-temperature tolerance Used in chemical processes, petroleum refining, analysis and process instruments, semiconductor manufacturing, food and pharmaceutical industry, aviation and aerospace applications

    Both materials have specific applications where they are suitable, so the choice between EPDM and Viton depends on factors such as temperature tolerance, chemical compatibility, and cost.

    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.