How to Choose the Right Sanitary Gasket?
Let’s be honest—gaskets don’t get the attention they deserve. They’re the silent protectors, the unseen warriors preventing leaks, keeping systems sealed, and ensuring everything runs smoothly. But when it comes to choosing the right gasket material, things can get a little tricky.
Some are built for extreme heat, others thrive in chemical-heavy environments, and a few are just great all-rounders.
Here at SaniFitDirect we provide a variety of sanitary gaskets. So, let’s break down the contenders and see which one fits your needs.
1. Buna-N (Nitrile) – The Oil Warrior
Buna-N is the go-to material for applications involving oils, fuels, and greases. It’s highly durable, has great abrasion resistance, and won’t break the bank.
Best for: Automotive, fuel systems, oil pipelines
Weakness: Ozone, sunlight, and harsh weather (it’ll crack over time)
Temperature Range: -40°F to 250°F (-40°C to 121°C)
Pick Buna if your system is indoors and deals with oil and fuel.
2. EPDM – The Outdoor Champ (Best For Breweries)
EPDM is tough against the elements and great for water-heavy applications. If you need a gasket that can handle steam, weather, and chemicals choose EPDM.
Best for: HVAC, plumbing, water systems, outdoor applications, breweries
Weakness: Oil and fuel
Temperature Range: -60°F to 300°F (-51°C to 149°C)
Use EPDM for anything involving water, steam, or outdoor exposure.
3. Viton – The Chemical Beast
Viton thrives in high temperatures and chemical-heavy environments, making it a favorite in the aerospace and automotive industries. If your system sees harsh chemicals, extreme heat, or exposure to fuel, Viton is a great pick.
Best for: Aerospace, automotive, chemical processing
Weakness: Extreme cold
Temperature Range: -15°F to 400°F (-26°C to 204°C)
If your job involves chemicals and high heat, Viton is worth the investment.
4. Teflon (PTFE) – The Chemical Combatant
Teflon offers the best chemical resistance of any gasket material and can withstand extreme temperatures.
Best for: Chemical processing, food and pharma, high heat applications
Weakness: Rigid, can deform over time under pressure
Temperature Range: -328°F to 500°F (-200°C to 260°C)
Use Teflon when dealing with aggressive chemicals or extreme temperatures.
5. Silicone – The Food-Grade Hero
Silicone is heat-resistant, non-toxic, and great for food environments. It’s one of the few materials that is FDA-approved for food and medical applications, making it ideal for anything that involves human consumption or high-heat sterilization.
Best for: Food processing, medical devices, extreme temperature variations
Weakness: Petroleum-based oils and fuels
Temperature Range: -75°F to 450°F (-60°C to 232°C)
If you’re in food, pharma, or medical industries, silicone is your best bet.
Which Material is Best For You?
For oil and fuel? Buna or Viton
For breweries, water, steam, and outdoor use? EPDM
For high heat and harsh chemicals? Viton or Teflon
For food and medical applications? Silicone
Choosing the right gasket material can mean the difference between a leak-free system and a maintenance nightmare. So, pick wisely, and may your seals always stay strong!