Recommended Continuous Operating Temperature Range
Note: The values below are general recommended continuous temperature ranges.
Actual performance depends on compound formulation, media compatibility, pressure, and service conditions.
| Material | Abbreviation | Continuous Temperature Range | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nitrile Rubber | NBR | –40°C to +100°C | Hydraulic oil, fuel systems, general industrial oils |
| Hydrogenated Nitrile | HNBR | –40°C to +150°C | Automotive systems, high-temperature oil applications |
| Ethylene Propylene | EPDM | –50°C to +150°C | Hot water, steam (low pressure), chemicals, food industry |
| Fluorocarbon Rubber | FKM (Viton®) | –20°C to +200°C | High temperature oils, chemical processing |
| Silicone Rubber | VMQ | –60°C to +200°C | Low temperature applications, food & medical use |
| Chloroprene | CR | –40°C to +120°C | Refrigeration systems, moderate oil exposure |
| Natural Rubber | NR | –50°C to +100°C | Water, non-oil industrial applications |
| Butyl Rubber | IIR | –50°C to +120°C | Gas sealing, vacuum systems |
| Fluorosilicone | FVMQ | –50°C to +200°C | Aerospace fuel systems |
| Polyurethane | PU | –30°C to +80°C | Hydraulic seals, abrasion-resistant applications |
| PTFE (Teflon®) | PTFE | –180°C to +260°C | Strong acids, aggressive chemicals |
| Perfluoroelastomer | FFKM | –20°C to +300°C | Semiconductor, high-purity chemical systems |
Important Selection Notes
When selecting O-ring materials, temperature alone is NOT sufficient. Consider:
✔ Media compatibility (oil, acid, alkali, steam, solvent)
✔ Pressure rating
✔ Dynamic or static application
✔ Regulatory requirements (FDA, WRAS, etc.)
✔ Cost-performance balance
Quick Selection Logic
For oil & fuel systems → NBR / HNBR / FKM
For hot water & steam → EPDM
For strong chemicals → PTFE / FFKM
For extreme temperatures → PTFE / FFKM
For low temperature flexibility → VMQ