Nitrile (NBR) rubber parts
Nitrile is a copolymer of butadiene and acrylonitrile. The acrylonitrile content sets the balance: more of it improves oil and fuel resistance, less of it improves flexibility in the cold.
Nitrile is the most common material for O-rings and seals that see petroleum oil, fuel or hydraulic fluid. Standard nitrile does not hold up well to sunlight and ozone, so outdoor parts need an ozone-resistant grade or a different material.
At a glance
| Property | Nitrile (NBR) |
|---|---|
| Also called | NBR, Buna-N, Acrylonitrile butadiene rubber |
| Known for | Oil and fuel resistance |
| Typical service temperature | -30 °F to +212 °F (-34 °C to +100 °C) |
| Common ASTM D2000 type and class | BF, BG, BK, CH |
Typical values for general-purpose grades. The compound, the hardness and the service conditions decide what a part can take, so we confirm the compound with your quote. Short exposures to about +250 °F (+121 °C) are possible, with a shorter service life. For what the type and class letters mean, see ASTM D2000 callouts.
Resistance profile
Generally good with
- Petroleum oils and greases
- Gasoline, diesel and fuel oils
- Petroleum-based hydraulic fluids
- Water
- Abrasion
Usually a poor choice for
- Ozone, sunlight and weathering (standard grades)
- Ketones such as MEK and acetone
- Glycol-based brake fluids
- Strong acids
Where nitrile is used
- O-rings and seals for oil, fuel and hydraulic systems
- Gaskets for pumps, engines and gearboxes
- Seals for fuel-handling equipment
- Oil-resistant grommets and bumpers
How we make nitrile parts
We work in nitrile with these processes, all under one roof in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania:
Catalog parts you can request in nitrile
Every catalog part is quoted in the material and durometer you name when you add it to your quote.
Quote a part in nitrile
Send us a drawing, a sample part or a rough sketch. We will review it, recommend the right material and process, and give you a firm ship date with your quote.