In industrial environments, even a small sealing component can make a significant difference to equipment performance. A gasket that loses its sealing ability, tubing that deteriorates after chemical exposure, or a rubber profile that fails under high temperatures can lead to leakage, maintenance interruptions, and costly downtime.
This is why material selection matters.
Viton™ is a well-known fluoroelastomer (FKM) material used in demanding applications where resistance to heat, oils, fuels, and certain chemicals is important. It is available in different product forms, including rubber tubing, round cord, flat strips, square profiles, and custom extrusions.
But which type should you choose for your application?
This guide explains the characteristics of Viton™ rubber tubing, how different extrusion profiles are used, what to consider when selecting a material, and how custom manufacturing can help meet specific industrial requirements.
What Is Viton™ Rubber?
Viton™ is a registered trademark associated with fluoroelastomer materials. These materials belong to the FKM family of synthetic rubbers, which are valued for their resistance to many oils, fuels, chemicals, and elevated temperatures.
Unlike general-purpose elastomers designed for everyday sealing applications, FKM compounds are frequently selected for environments involving demanding thermal and chemical conditions.
Their performance depends on the specific formulation, the operating environment, and the type of exposure involved.
Viton™ is used in applications such as automotive fuel systems, industrial machinery, chemical processing equipment, pumps, and specialized sealing assemblies.
The material is available in different grades and hardness levels, allowing manufacturers to select a suitable formulation for the intended operating conditions.
Why Choose Viton™ for Industrial Extrusions?
Viton™ extrusions are designed for applications where ordinary rubber materials may not provide the required combination of temperature and chemical resistance.
Here are some of the main characteristics that make FKM extrusions useful in industrial settings.
- Resistance to Heat
Many FKM compounds are formulated for elevated-temperature applications. Depending on the grade and operating conditions, Viton™ can maintain useful sealing properties in environments where some conventional elastomers may deteriorate more quickly.
This makes it relevant for applications involving engine compartments, industrial machinery, heated processing equipment, and other temperature-intensive environments.
However, there is no single temperature limit that applies to every Viton™ product. Continuous operating temperature, short-term exposure, compression, and chemical contact must all be evaluated against the specific compound’s technical data.
- Resistance to Oils and Fuels
FKM materials are commonly selected for their resistance to many petroleum-based oils, fuels, and lubricants.
This makes them relevant to fuel handling systems, automotive components, pumps, and industrial equipment exposed to hydrocarbon-based fluids.
Compatibility still needs to be verified for the actual fluid, its concentration, operating temperature, and exposure duration.
- Sealing Performance
A sealing material needs to maintain contact with the surfaces it is designed to seal.
Viton™ extrusions can be specified in different shapes and hardness levels to suit the geometry and mechanical requirements of an application.
The correct profile and compound can help support reliable sealing under the intended conditions.
- Different Sizes and Configurations
Viton™ is available in several extrusion forms, making it possible to select a product based on how it will be installed and used.
These options include round cord, tubing, flat strips, square profiles, and custom-designed cross-sections.
For manufacturers, this flexibility helps simplify component selection and supports specialized equipment designs.
Types of Viton™ Extruded Rubber Products
Different extrusion profiles perform different functions. Understanding these differences helps engineers and purchasing teams identify the right product for their requirements.
Viton™ tubing is used to transport fluids in systems that require suitable chemical and temperature resistance.
It is particularly relevant when the tubing comes into contact with oils, fuels, lubricants, or compatible industrial chemicals.
Unlike a solid sealing cord, tubing has a hollow cross-section that allows fluid to pass through its internal bore.
Common applications
- Industrial fluid transfer systems
- Automotive and fuel-related equipment
- Chemical processing machinery
- Specialized laboratory equipment
- Compatible peristaltic pump applications
When selecting Viton™ tubing, consider the internal diameter, outside diameter, wall thickness, operating pressure, flexibility, and fluid compatibility.
For peristaltic pumps, the tubing must also withstand repeated compression and recovery. A standard FKM tube should not automatically be assumed suitable for every pump application.
- Viton™ Cord
Viton™ cord is a solid, round rubber extrusion commonly used for sealing applications.
It is particularly useful when a project requires a specific cord diameter or when a sealing component needs to be fabricated to a particular length.
Round cord can be used in static sealing arrangements and certain custom O-ring applications, provided the material and joint design are suitable.
Common applications
- Custom sealing rings
- Industrial equipment seals
- Machinery maintenance
- High-temperature sealing assemblies
- Specialized gasket fabrication
The diameter of the cord, its hardness, the joint construction, and the compression applied during installation all influence sealing performance.
For applications involving pressure or movement, engineers should evaluate the complete seal design rather than selecting a cord based on diameter alone.
- Viton™ Strip Extrusions
Viton™ strip extrusions have a flat rectangular cross-section and are used in sealing applications that require a defined width and thickness.
They can be useful when a flat sealing element needs to fit between two surfaces or follow a specific equipment layout.
Common applications
- Industrial gasket fabrication
- Equipment sealing
- Flat interface seals
- Custom sealing assemblies
- Applications requiring specified strip dimensions
Strip selection involves more than choosing a suitable width. Thickness, compression, surface contact, chemical exposure, and installation conditions also need to be considered.
Custom strip dimensions can help manufacturers achieve the required fit without relying on an unsuitable standard size.
- Viton™ Square Extrusions
Square Viton™ extrusions feature a uniform, four-sided cross-section.
They are used in applications where a square sealing profile is compatible with the design of the equipment or sealing groove.
Square profiles can be useful for framing, edge sealing, and custom gasket applications.
Common applications
- Industrial enclosures
- Equipment frames
- Custom gasket assemblies
- Edge sealing applications
- Specialized machinery components
The appropriate square profile depends on the groove dimensions, compression requirements, material hardness, and operating environment.
A correctly designed profile can help achieve the desired fit while reducing unnecessary material deformation during installation.
- Custom Viton™ Profile Extrusions
Not every industrial sealing requirement can be met with round cord, tubing, flat strips, or square profiles.
Some applications require a specific cross-sectional shape to fit a housing, protect an edge, accommodate a sealing groove, or meet the geometry of a specialized component.
Custom Viton™ profile extrusions are manufactured around these requirements.
Examples of profile shapes include:
- U-channel profiles
- P-shaped seals
- E-shaped seals
- T-shaped gaskets
- Other application-specific cross-sections
Custom extrusion can be particularly relevant for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), equipment designers, and businesses developing specialized machinery.
The design process may involve reviewing drawings, dimensions, material requirements, tooling, and production quantities before manufacturing begins.
Viton™ Extrusion Products Comparison Table
The following table summarizes the main differences between the common extrusion forms.
| Product type | Shape | Common purpose | Important selection factors |
| Viton™ tubing | Hollow tube | Fluid transfer | Bore, wall thickness, pressure, fluid compatibility |
| Viton™ cord | Round, solid | Sealing and gasket fabrication | Diameter, hardness, compression, joint design |
| Viton™ strip | Flat | Gasketing and surface sealing | Width, thickness, contact surfaces |
| Viton™ square | Four-sided, solid | Edge sealing and framing | Cross-section, groove fit, compression |
| Custom profile | Application-specific | Specialized sealing and component design | Drawing, geometry, compound, tolerances |
The right product depends on the application. A tube designed for fluid transfer is not interchangeable with a solid cord or a custom sealing profile.
How to Select the Right Viton™ Extrusion
Selecting a rubber extrusion involves balancing material properties with the practical requirements of the equipment.
- Identify the Operating Environment
Start by understanding where and how the extrusion will be used. Will it be exposed to elevated temperatures, oils, fuels, chemicals, pressure, vibration, or repeated movement? Documenting these conditions helps narrow down the appropriate material options.
- Confirm Chemical Compatibility
Viton™ is resistant to many chemicals, but it is not universally compatible with every substance. Different FKM formulations can behave differently when exposed to particular solvents, chemicals, or mixtures. Always check compatibility against the actual chemical, concentration, temperature, and exposure duration.
- Define the Required Dimensions
Accurate dimensions are essential for a reliable fit. For tubing, specify internal diameter, outside diameter, and wall thickness. For cord, strips, and square profiles, provide the required cross-sectional dimensions and tolerances. For custom profiles, an engineering drawing or sample can help communicate the intended geometry.
- Select the Appropriate Hardness
Rubber hardness is commonly measured using the Shore A scale. SantopSeal lists Viton™ products in hardness options ranging from 60 to 90 durometer, depending on the product and available grade. A softer material may be easier to compress in certain sealing arrangements, while a harder compound may be suitable for other mechanical requirements. The correct hardness depends on the groove design, compression, pressure, and application.
- Consider Production Quantity and Tooling
Standard sizes may be appropriate for routine requirements, while custom profiles may require dedicated extrusion tooling. For prototypes and specialized equipment, it is useful to discuss expected quantities, sample requirements, dimensional tolerances, and future production needs before committing to a design.
Common Industrial Applications of Viton™ Extrusions
Viton™ tubing, cord, strips, square profiles, and custom extrusions can support a wide range of industrial applications.
Automotive and Transportation
FKM components are used in selected automotive sealing applications, including systems exposed to oils, fuels, and elevated temperatures. The precise compound must be compatible with the fluids and operating conditions involved.
Chemical Processing
Chemical processing equipment may require seals and tubing that can withstand specific chemicals and temperature conditions. Viton™ can be considered when its chemical compatibility is verified for the application.
Pumps and Fluid Handling
Tubing and sealing components are used in industrial pumps and fluid handling equipment. For peristaltic pump systems, repeated compression, recovery, and fluid compatibility are especially important.
Industrial Machinery
Manufacturers may use Viton™ cords, strips, and custom profiles in machinery where sealing requirements involve elevated temperatures or compatible oils and chemicals.
Aerospace and Specialized Equipment
Certain aerospace and specialized equipment applications use FKM sealing components where material properties meet the required specifications. Selection should follow the equipment’s engineering requirements and applicable industry standards.
Why Custom Viton™ Extrusions Matter for OEMs
Standard rubber profiles can meet many common requirements, but specialized equipment may need a precise cross-section or a non-standard dimension.
Custom extrusions allow engineers to specify the geometry around the intended sealing function.
For example, a manufacturer may require a profile that fits a particular housing, follows a defined edge, or accommodates a unique groove design.
Custom manufacturing can support:
- Application-specific dimensions and cross-sections
- Metric and imperial specifications
- Prototype and small-run requirements
- Specialized sealing and gasketing designs
- Production planning around defined specifications
Early communication between the design team and extrusion manufacturer can help identify dimensional or material considerations before production.
Frequently Asked Questions About Viton™ Extrusions
These FAQs address common questions about Viton™ tubing, cord, strips, square profiles, and custom rubber extrusions.
- What are Viton™ extrusions?
Viton™ extrusions are rubber products made by shaping suitable fluoroelastomer compounds into continuous profiles. Common forms include tubing, round cord, flat strips, square profiles, and custom cross-sections used in industrial sealing and fluid-handling applications.
- What is the difference between Viton™ and FKM?
FKM is the general designation for a family of fluoroelastomer materials. Viton™ is a registered trademark associated with particular FKM products. The specific formulation and grade determine the material’s properties and suitability for an application.
- Is Viton™ tubing suitable for chemical transfer?
Viton™ tubing may be suitable for transferring certain chemicals, oils, and fuels when the compound is compatible with the fluid and operating conditions. Chemical compatibility, temperature, pressure, and tubing dimensions should be checked before use.
- What is Viton™ cord used for?
Viton™ cord is commonly used for sealing and gasket fabrication. Its round cross-section makes it useful for certain static sealing applications and custom sealing rings when the cord diameter, compound, and joint design are appropriate.
- What are Viton™ strips and square profiles used for?
Viton™ strips are commonly used in flat gasket and surface-sealing applications. Square profiles can be used for edge sealing, framing, and equipment-specific sealing arrangements. The correct choice depends on the geometry and compression requirements.
- Can Viton™ extrusions be manufactured in custom sizes?
Yes. Custom Viton™ extrusions can be designed around application-specific dimensions and cross-sectional shapes. SantopSeal offers custom profile options and in-house tooling capabilities for specialized extrusion requirements.
- What hardness options are available for Viton™ extrusions?
SantopSeal lists Viton™ extrusion products in hardness options ranging from 60 to 90 durometer, depending on the product and grade. Availability should be confirmed for the required profile and compound.
- How do I choose the right Viton™ extrusion for my application?
Start by identifying the operating temperature, chemical exposure, pressure, dimensions, hardness, and sealing requirements. Provide these details, along with a drawing or sample when available, to help the manufacturer evaluate a suitable product.
- Is Viton™ suitable for food-contact applications?
Some specific FKM formulations may be available for applications requiring food-contact compliance. However, not every Viton™ compound is automatically food-grade or FDA-compliant. Verify the exact material, applicable regulatory requirements, and supporting documentation before selecting it for food-contact use.
- What information should I provide when requesting a custom Viton™ extrusion quote?
Provide the required profile shape, dimensions, material or grade requirements, hardness, operating conditions, estimated quantity, and any relevant drawing or sample. Include chemical exposure and temperature details so the manufacturer can evaluate the requirements.
Conclusion: Find the Right Viton™ Extrusion for Your Application
Viton™ extruded rubber products offer a range of options for industrial applications that require suitable heat, oil, fuel, or chemical resistance.
From tubing used in fluid-handling systems to round cord, flat strips, square profiles, and application-specific custom extrusions, each product type serves a different purpose.
The key is to select a material and profile that match the actual operating environment, dimensional requirements, and sealing function.
SantopSeal Corporation is a U.S.-based manufacturer of rubber and thermoplastic extrusion products, including Viton™ tubing, cord, strips, square profiles, and custom sealing shapes. The company offers standard and custom extrusion options, in-house tooling, and support for specialized industrial requirements.
Whether you are developing a new component, sourcing a replacement seal, or evaluating a custom extrusion for industrial equipment, SantopSeal can help you explore product options based on your project specifications.
For more information about Viton™ extruded rubber products, visit the SantopSeal website https://www.santopseal.com/ or contact the company at info@santopseal.com or call 412-444-1888 to discuss your application requirements.