| NBR (nitrile rubber) | Elastic compression fills the gap between mating surfaces to limit fluid or gas leakage. | Approximately −30°C to +100°C; the range varies by compound. | Hydraulic systems, fuel systems, pumps, and general-purpose O-rings. | Good resistance to many petroleum oils and fuels; widely used for general service. | Not generally suited to ozone, weathering, or some aggressive chemicals. Check the exact fluid and compound. |
| FKM (fluoroelastomer) | An elastomer ring compresses against the sealing surfaces and maintains contact under service conditions. | Common grades are often used from approximately −20°C to +200°C. | Automotive, chemical-processing, and industrial equipment exposed to oils or elevated temperatures. | Often offers good heat, oil, and chemical resistance. | Compatibility depends on the specific chemical and grade; some formulations have limited low-temperature flexibility. |
| EPDM (ethylene propylene diene rubber) | Elastic deformation creates a contact seal in static or dynamic applications. | Approximately −40°C to +120°C for many common grades. | Water systems, outdoor equipment, steam service with suitable grades, and weather-exposed seals. | Good resistance to water, ozone, and weathering. | Generally unsuitable for petroleum oils and many hydrocarbon fuels. Verify the grade for hot-water or steam duty. |
| Silicone rubber | A compliant ring deforms under compression to close small clearances. | Many grades are used over approximately −55°C to +200°C. | Food-processing equipment, appliances, medical devices, and applications needing flexibility across a broad temperature range. | Maintains flexibility at low temperatures and can tolerate elevated temperatures, depending on grade. | Mechanical strength and abrasion resistance may be lower than those of some other elastomers; confirm regulatory requirements where applicable. |
| PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) | A low-friction polymer ring seals through close fit, compression, or an energized design. | Often used from approximately −200°C to +260°C, subject to load and design limits. | Chemical-processing equipment, valves, pumps, and low-friction or chemically demanding applications. | Broad chemical resistance and low friction. | PTFE is not an elastomer and does not recover like rubber; design must account for creep and installation requirements. |
| Metal sealing ring | Controlled deformation or metal-to-metal contact creates a seal; some designs use a soft metallic coating. | Depends on alloy, coating, geometry, and operating conditions; some designs suit temperatures above typical elastomer limits. | High-pressure valves, engines, vacuum systems, and high-temperature equipment. | Can be suitable for demanding pressure or temperature conditions when correctly engineered. | Requires compatible mating surfaces, accurate installation, and material selection for the process fluid and environment. |