Fluoroelastomer Viton (Discovery 3)

As with many vehicles from other manufacturers, some assemblies have o-rings, seals or gaskets that contain a material known as "viton" (Viton).

Viton is a fluoroelastomer, i.e. a synthetic rubber type material that contains fluorine. Although the best known fluoroelastomer is Viton, there are other similar materials such as Fluorel (Fluorel) and tecmoflon (Tecmoflon).

If fluoroelastomers are used under design conditions, they are completely harmless and non-hazardous.

However, if they are exposed to temperatures in excess of 400°C, the material, although it will not ignite, will decompose, and one of the decomposition products will be hydrofluoric acid (hydrofluoric) acid.

This acid is extremely aggressive and, upon contact, can directly penetrate the body. IF ON SKIN, SEEK MEDICAL ASSISTANCE IMMEDIATELY.

O-rings, seals or gaskets that have been exposed to extreme heat will appear as charred or black goo.

Under no circumstances touch them or adjacent parts.

To determine if Viton or any other fluoroelastomer has been used to make a particular o-ring, seal or gasket, please inquire. If the elements were made of natural rubber or nitrile, they are not dangerous. When in doubt, be careful and better assume the worst, i.e. that Viton or another fluoroelastomer was used as the material.

If Viton or any other fluoroelastomer was used, clean the problem area from contamination before starting work.

Always wear disposable, heavy-duty plastic gloves. Before removing decomposed Viton residues and final cleansing of the problem area, rinse this area with "wire wool" and lime water solution (calcium hydroxide), to neutralize the acid. After using the above plastic gloves, they must be properly disposed of.