EPM, Inc.

10/02/2025

Buna vs. Viton: Material Selection

Choosing the right elastomer for sealing applications is critical to system longevity and performance. Among the most popular choices are Buna-N (Nitrile) and Viton (Fluoroelastomer, or FKM), each offering a distinct profile of strengths and weaknesses.

This guide provides a direct comparison of their technical attributes to help you make an informed material selection for your specific application.

1. Buna-N (Nitrile Rubber)

Buna-N is a versatile and widely utilized material, primarily valued for its outstanding resistance to oil, fuel, and other petroleum-based fluids. This makes it the industry standard for general-purpose sealing in automotive and industrial settings.

Key Strengths:

Oil and Fuel Resistance: Excellent performance in contact with hydrocarbon fluids.

Mechanical Properties: Known for good tensile strength and a low compression set, meaning it holds its shape well after being compressed for long periods.

Cost: Highly cost-effective, making it suitable for budget-conscious and high-volume applications.

Key Limitations:

Temperature: Effective in moderate temperature ranges only.

Environmental: Poor resistance to ozone, weathering, and UV light, making it unsuitable for long-term outdoor use.

2. Viton (Fluoroelastomer, FKM)

Viton is a high-performance elastomer designed for demanding environments. It is the preferred material for critical applications in the chemical, aerospace, and high-performance automotive industries due to its exceptional stability.

Key Strengths:

Chemical Resistance: Offers superior resistance to an extremely wide range of aggressive chemicals, including strong acids and solvents.

High Temperature: Provides unmatched thermal stability, with the ability to withstand continuous operating temperatures that far exceed Buna-N.

Environmental Durability: Excellent resistance to ozone and weathering, making it ideal for harsh outdoor or exposed applications.

Key Limitations:

Cost: Significantly more expensive than Buna-N.

Fluid Compatibility: While highly chemical-resistant, it does not perform as well as Buna-N with certain aviation fluids and ketones.

Comparative Analysis and Application Considerations

When selecting between Buna-N and Viton, the decision should be guided by specific environmental and operational parameters (see below).

The choice between Buna-N and Viton is a trade-off between cost and performance.

Choose Buna-N when your application involves exposure to oils and fuels in a moderate temperature range and the budget is a primary concern.

Choose Viton when the application requires superior resistance to aggressive chemicals, high temperatures, or harsh outdoor environments, where material failure is simply not an option.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call us at 770-389-0501.

07/23/2025

Getting You the Perfect Seal: The S.T.A.M.P.S. of Approval

When it comes to seals and gaskets, one size certainly doesn't fit all. To ensure you get the perfect solution that performs reliably and lasts, we need to understand the unique conditions your seal or gasket will face. That's why we rely on the S.T.A.M.P.S. acronym to gather all the crucial details from you, our valued customer.

By providing us with information about Size, Temperature, Application, Media, Pressure, and Speed, you help us engineer or select the ideal seal or gasket for your specific needs, preventing costly failures and maximizing efficiency.

Here's a breakdown of what each letter in S.T.A.M.P.S. means and why it's so important:

Size

What we need: Exact dimensions of the seal or gasket, including inner diameter (ID), outer diameter (OD), cross-section (C/S), height/thickness (H/T) and any specific tolerances. For custom parts, detailed drawings or specifications are incredibly helpful.

Why it matters: Precise sizing is fundamental for a proper fit and effective sealing. An undersized seal won't create a tight barrier, leading to leaks, while an oversized one can be difficult to install, deform, or even damage the mating surfaces.

Temperature

What we need: The minimum and maximum operating temperatures the seal or gasket will encounter, as well as any rapid temperature fluctuations.

Why it matters: Temperature significantly impacts material properties. Too high, and a material can degrade, soften, or lose its elasticity; too low, and it can become brittle and crack. Knowing the temperature range helps us select materials that maintain their integrity and sealing capability across the full spectrum of your operating environment.

Application

What we need: A clear description of where and how the seal or gasket will be used. Is it for a static or dynamic application? What kind of motion is involved (rotary, reciprocating)? Are there any specific industry standards or certifications required (e.g., FDA for food contact)?

Why it matters: Understanding the application guides our material and design recommendations. A static seal in a pipe fl**ge has different requirements than a dynamic seal in a rotating shaft. The application also dictates whether specific features like spring energizers or specialized profiles are necessary.

Media

What we need: The specific fluids or gases the seal or gasket will be in contact with. This includes details about their chemical composition, concentration, and any potential abrasives or particulates.

Why it matters: Chemical compatibility is paramount. The wrong material can swell, shrink, dissolve, or corrode when exposed to certain media, leading to seal failure. Knowing the media allows us to select materials that resist degradation and maintain their sealing properties over time.

Pressure

What we need: The minimum and maximum operating pressures, including any pressure spikes or vacuum conditions.

Why it matters: Pressure directly affects the design and material selection of a seal. High pressures can cause extrusion or deformation of the seal material, while vacuum conditions can lead to ingression of external contaminants. We need to select materials and designs that can withstand the applied pressure without compromising the seal's integrity.

Speed

What we need: For dynamic applications, the speed of the moving parts (e.g., RPM for rotary shafts, cycles per minute for reciprocating motion).

Why it matters: In dynamic applications, speed generates friction and heat, which can impact seal life and performance. It also influences the choice of seal design and material to minimize wear and prevent premature failure.

By providing us with comprehensive S.T.A.M.P.S. information, you're not just giving us data; you're helping us deliver a tailored, reliable, and long-lasting sealing solution that keeps your operations running smoothly. We look forward to partnering with you to achieve the perfect seal!

07/23/2025

The Viton Story: Superior Seal, Scarce Supply

The supply of FPM (Viton) material in Europe is facing significant challenges, primarily due to proposed EU restrictions on Perfluorohexanoic Acid (PFHxA) and related substances, which are crucial polymerization aids in fluoroelastomer production. If these restrictions are fully implemented without exemptions, the ability to manufacture fluoroelastomers like FPM/Viton in the EU would be severely impacted, leading to global supply disruptions. This situation is further compounded by existing global supply chain issues stemming from the pandemic, including increased demand for goods, labor shortages, and logistical bottlenecks. For the USA, this means a potential tightening of the Viton market, as European production is a significant component of the global supply. Given that there are no direct replacements for Viton in many critical applications due to its superior chemical and high-temperature resistance, these disruptions could lead to increased lead times and higher costs for Viton-based products in the US, affecting industries from automotive to aerospace. We've noticed a delay in obtaining Viton material at EPM due to ongoing supply chain issues. Please be aware that seal orders made with Viton could experience a lead time of up to four weeks, depending on availability. To mitigate this, we have partnered with an additional FPM supplier who will also provide us with high-quality VitonTM material.

07/14/2025

Considering sealing and gasket solutions? EPM, Inc. is your answer.

We offer a wide array of standard seals and gaskets for your everyday needs. But our true strength lies in custom sealing solutions. If your project faces unusual environments, unique shapes, or demanding performance, we're fully equipped to design and manufacture a seal perfectly tailored to your specific challenge.

We're more than just a supplier; we're a dedicated resource for both your routine and most specialized sealing requirements. Connect with us anytime to discuss your applications or if you have any questions. We're committed to providing the right sealing support for your success.

06/27/2025

We're exploring the possibility of establishing an on-site hydraulic cylinder service at our facility. We're seeking a qualified cylinder repair specialist or company to partner with for this endeavor. If interested, please email [email protected]. Thank you

06/20/2025

Hydraulic seals are the unsung heroes of any hydraulic system, silently ensuring efficiency, durability, and leak prevention. But with a vast array of types available, selecting the perfect one can feel daunting.

Essentially, hydraulic seals are vital components within cylinders that contain and separate hydraulic fluid, maintaining crucial pressure and preventing contamination. They come in diverse shapes, materials, and designs, each specifically tailored to unique functions and environments. Choosing the correct seal is not just important; it's critical for maximizing system performance and longevity. To make the right choice, you must carefully consider your system's specific requirements and operating conditions.

For specialized or highly demanding applications, standard seals often will not suffice. Custom hydraulic seals can be precisely designed to match specific dimensions, materials, and performance requirements. Partnering with a trusted seal manufacturer ensures the creation of seals perfectly tailored to your unique needs, guaranteeing optimal compatibility and performance.

Investing in the right hydraulic seal not only enhances system efficiency but also significantly reduces downtime and maintenance costs. More than just a product, investing in a reliable hydraulic seal partner is equally crucial. At EPM, we pride ourselves on being a trusted supplier and manufacturer of hydraulic seals with over 30 years of industry experience. We're here to guide you through the entire process, ensuring you choose the ideal seal for your application.

05/01/2025

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/epm-inc-james-b1130096_your-source-for-superior-seal-solutions-activity-7323734870713614336-Rf0z?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAABRVij0B4nJtgVRuZIgPHj3HmfTOexP8rIw

Your Source for Superior Seal Solutions Seals are critical components in manufacturing machinery, preventing fluid and gas leaks to protect equipment and the environment. They also reduce friction, ensuring smooth operation and extending equipment life. In industries demanding precision and reliabil...

05/01/2025

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/epm-inc-james-b1130096_more-than-seals-epms-founding-principles-activity-7323718818462097427-1d4Y?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAABRVij0B4nJtgVRuZIgPHj3HmfTOexP8rIw

More Than Seals: EPM's Founding Principles EPM specializes in the manufacturing of a wide array of hydraulic and pneumatic seals (including piston seals, rod seals, wipers, O-rings, back-up rings, and rotary shaft/oil seals), wear rings, V-packing rings, and gaskets. We supply these essential co...

03/18/2025

No Seal Too Small, Precision Guaranteed

EPM, Inc. thrives on innovation, delivering solutions where others falter. Unlike seal companies that limit themselves to standard offerings, we embrace complex challenges. A recent example involved a mining client's need for an infinitesimal bushing seal (OD: 2.30 mm; ID: 1.0 mm, H: 1.85 mm with a 0.5 mm buffer). Our engineering team dedicated their expertise to producing this highly intricate bushing to exact specifications, overcoming molding hurdles that most companies would avoid. The client's satisfaction was paramount. At EPM, we confidently assert that no seal is beyond our reach. As our founder, Jerry Whitlock, declared, 'There is NO international standard or special seal that we cannot provide – NONE. I guarantee you, if I cannot supply the seal or gasket you need, it probably does not exist.' Our commitment to superior quality and craftsmanship in seal manufacturing is unmatched. We aim to build long-term relationships with our clients, and we stand behind our products with a satisfaction guarantee. Experience the difference. Contact Joe at 800-659-5050 to discuss your needs. We're confident you'll be satisfied with the results.

02/17/2025

At EPM Inc., we excel in the manufacturing and prompt delivery of high-quality seals and gaskets, but our true strength lies in the trust and respect we have cultivated over the years. As Rand Fishkin insightfully noted, “The best way to sell something: do not sell anything. Earn the awareness, respect, and trust of those who might buy.” While many can produce and sell seals, few can genuinely grasp the unique needs of their customers as we can. Our commitment is unwavering: we design seals that effectively resolve real challenges faced by our clients, putting their needs above mere profit. Our outstanding reputation stems not just from the superior quality of our products but also from our dedication to exceptional customer service. Choose EPM Inc. for a partnership built on integrity and excellence.