Nitrile / NBR

NBR Nitrile

NBR (Nitrile) is a unique copolymer made from butadiene and acrylonitrile. The content of acrylonitrile in commercial NBR can range between 18% and 50%. As the proportion of NBR increases, its resistance to petroleum-based oils and hydrocarbon fuels also improves, though this may compromise its flexibility at lower temperatures.

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About NBR

Nitrile, known for its exceptional resistance to petroleum products, is the leading elastomer utilized in the seal industry today. It is particularly valued for its capability to operate effectively across a temperature range of -35°C to +120°C (-30°F to +250°F). This material is also often specified in military rubber standards for fuel and oil-resistant O-rings.

It's important to note that enhancing low-temperature resistance can lead to a decrease in high-temperature performance. Nitrile compounds excel compared to many elastomers regarding factors like compression set, tear strength, and abrasion resistance. However, they do not perform well under exposure to ozone, sunlight, or harsh weather conditions and should be kept away from electric motors or ozone-generating devices.

NBR Applications

To achieve optimal performance, NBR components should be shielded from direct sunlight, although this characteristic can be improved through strategic compounding. NBR is the go-to material for a variety of hydraulic and pneumatic applications, demonstrating solid resistance to oil-based hydraulic fluids, fats, various oils, flame retardant liquids (HFA, HFB, HFC), grease, water, and even air. For mineral oil-based fluids, there are specialized low-temperature compounds available. By techniques such as hydrogenation, the addition of carboxylic acids, or PVC blending, NBR can meet specific physical or chemical requirements.

Datasheets NBR

The table below lists available datasheets for this material in PDF format. Safety datasheets can be accessed here.

Ask ERIKS

If you require additional information regarding Nitrile / NBR or any other O-ring materials, please reach out to one of our ERIKS Sealing & Polymer locations or fill out the form below.

NBR O-rings are created from a mixture of acrylonitrile and butadiene—commonly referred to as Buna N or Nitrile Rubber. The acrylonitrile content in these compounds plays a significant role in determining the material's physical properties, ranging from 18% to 50% content.

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Higher levels of acrylonitrile enhance resistance to oils and fuels, while lower levels improve low-temperature resilience at the cost of oil and fuel resistance. Thus, a balanced selection often involves moderate acrylonitrile content. Compared to other elastomers, NBR showcases strong mechanical properties and exceptional wear resistance.

NBR is susceptible to weathering and ozone damage. However, improvements can be made through the use of NBR/PVC blends that boast superior weathering and ozone resistance while maintaining good fuel resistance, albeit with less effective compression set performance.

Service Temperature: NBR can typically be designed for service temperatures ranging from -55°C to 100°C, or even up to 125°C depending on acrylonitrile content and formulation, with the understanding that lifespans will diminish with temperatures exceeding 100°C.

Hardness: Available hardness ranges between 40 to 90 Shore A.

Color options include black, brown, green, white, rust, yellow, blue, red, orange, and gray, as well as custom colors as specified by clients.

Applications: NBR O-rings provide excellent resistance against abrasion, non-polar oils and solvents, water, and permeation (improved with higher acrylonitrile content). They can also handle conditions involving dilute acids, alkalies, and saline solutions at low temperatures. However, they are unsuitable for applications involving aromatic hydrocarbons, chlorinated solvents, and polar solvents.

For further assistance regarding your requirements for NBR O Ring, connect with our knowledgeable sales team who will help you explore the best options tailored to your needs.