| Nitrile Rubber (NBR) | Approximately −30°C to +100°C | Good resistance to many petroleum-based oils and fuels; widely used and cost-effective. | Hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders, pumps, valves, automotive systems, and general-purpose O-rings. | Not ideal for prolonged exposure to ozone, weathering, or many strong chemicals. Compatibility depends on the specific fluid and compound. |
| Fluoroelastomer (FKM) | Approximately −20°C to +200°C | Good resistance to heat, oils, fuels, and many chemicals; low gas permeability compared with many general-purpose elastomers. | Fuel systems, chemical-processing equipment, high-temperature pumps, and industrial machinery. | Check low-temperature flexibility and compatibility with hot water, steam, or specific chemicals before selection. |
| Ethylene Propylene Diene Rubber (EPDM) | Approximately −40°C to +150°C | Good resistance to weathering, ozone, water, and many dilute acids and alkalis. | Water systems, outdoor equipment, HVAC systems, and selected brake-fluid applications. | Generally unsuitable for petroleum oils and fuels. Confirm compatibility with the exact fluid and operating conditions. |
| Silicone Rubber (VMQ) | Approximately −60°C to +200°C | Maintains flexibility across a wide temperature range and is available in grades for food-contact applications. | Food-processing equipment, medical devices, appliances, and static seals exposed to temperature variation. | Typically has lower tear and abrasion resistance than many other elastomers; select a suitable grade for dynamic service. |
| Hydrogenated Nitrile Rubber (HNBR) | Approximately −30°C to +150°C | Improved heat, ozone, and aging resistance compared with standard NBR while retaining useful oil resistance. | Automotive systems, oilfield equipment, compressors, and hydraulic or fuel-handling applications. | Confirm resistance to the operating fluid, temperature cycles, and any additives in the system. |
| Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) | Approximately −200°C to +260°C | Low friction and broad chemical resistance; available in filled grades for improved mechanical performance. | Chemical pumps, valves, rotary equipment, and applications requiring low friction or chemical compatibility. | PTFE can deform under sustained load and may require suitable design support to limit creep or extrusion. |
| Polyurethane (PU) | Typically approximately −30°C to +100°C | High abrasion and tear resistance, with good resistance to extrusion in many sealing designs. | Hydraulic cylinders, mobile equipment, heavy-duty seals, and applications involving abrasive conditions. | Temperature limits and chemical resistance vary by formulation; check compatibility with fluids and cleaning agents. |
| Expanded or Flexible Graphite | Temperature capability depends strongly on grade, atmosphere, and design | Useful for high-temperature static sealing and can conform to flange surfaces when correctly installed. | Industrial pipe flanges, heat exchangers, and selected high-temperature equipment. | Check oxidation conditions, pressure, flange finish, and installation requirements; it is generally used for static rather than dynamic seals. |