Is FPM the Same as Viton?

Rubber part specifications can be confusing. Have you ever wondered if FPM and Viton mean the same thing, or risked ordering the wrong seal for your system?

Yes, FPM and Viton refer to the same type of rubber: fluoroelastomer (FKM). FPM is the international standard name, while Viton is a well-known brand name.

Many engineers and buyers—myself included—have faced the challenge of matching material codes across suppliers. Inconsistent naming can create doubts, especially when you need perfect reliability for your HVAC or industrial application. Understanding this helps avoid costly mistakes.

What is FPM and how does it compare to Viton?

Rubber material codes can be confusing for many buyers. With critical projects, you do not want to take any chances.

FPM is the DIN/ISO international abbreviation for fluoroelastomer rubber, while Viton is a DuPont (now Chemours) trademark for their own brand of FKM rubber. Both are the same material at the base level.

FPM, FKM, and Viton: The Naming Confusion

I often see European datasheets or Chinese suppliers list “FPM” in their specs. In the US or in technical ASTM standards, “FKM” is the norm. “Viton” is just a brand—albeit a famous one—for the same core material. Knowing these differences lets me talk confidently with both local and international buyers.

Viton (FKM/FPM) has excellent resistance to high temperatures, chemicals, and weathering. That’s why HVAC, automotive, and industrial projects rely on it. There is no difference in base performance between FPM and Viton—only branding, manufacturing, and quality controls may differ between suppliers.

Are there any performance differences between FPM and Viton?

Sometimes buyers worry about quality. Can a generic FPM seal really match the reliability of Viton? Or is paying for the brand worth it?

FPM and Viton seals can offer the same performance if both are produced to the same technical standards. Viton is a specific brand, while FPM covers all fluoroelastomer rubbers that meet DIN/ISO requirements.

Brand vs Standard: What Matters More?

As a B2B supplier, I test and verify all FPM/FKM seals from my own supply chain, regardless of whether they are Viton or a generic FPM. For most applications, I find generic FPM is more cost-effective if the production quality is there and the technical datasheet matches the project’s needs. However, some buyers—especially in aerospace, food, or pharma—might require the traceability or certifications only Viton can offer.

What are the main applications for FPM/Viton rubber seals?

Picking the right seal for your project is all about matching the material to the conditions.

FPM/Viton seals are best for applications needing excellent chemical, temperature, and weather resistance. Common uses include automotive engines, HVAC, chemical processing, and pumps.

Typical Applications

I help customers select FPM/Viton⁸ seals for HVAC flue joints, automotive gaskets, and demanding chemical environments. I always verify chemical compatibility⁹ and check temperature specs, especially for high-value or safety-critical projects.

How do I ensure the FPM or Viton seal meets my quality needs?

Quality differences can impact system life, maintenance costs, and safety. Not all FPM is made the same.

Always request a technical datasheet, check manufacturer certifications, and, if possible, verify the source—especially for demanding projects.

What to Check in FPM/Viton Quality

At Julong Rubber, I control incoming FKM/FPM raw materials and provide certificates as needed. For critical customers, I share our test results and traceability documents. Good suppliers will never hesitate to show this. For HVAC, automotive, or food projects, I recommend always specifying required certifications on the order.

Can FPM/Viton seals be customized for my project?

Standard seals are not always enough. Many customers need non-standard shapes, custom hardness, or special compounds.

FPM/Viton seals can be custom-molded to any shape, hardness, or color. Specify your technical requirements to your supplier for best results.

What Custom Options are Available?

I work with our engineering team to turn customer drawings into finished FPM or Viton products. Even small batch orders are possible. If you have a technical challenge, reach out—I enjoy helping buyers develop unique solutions that mainstream catalogs cannot offer.

Conclusion

FPM and Viton are different names for the same base material: high-performance fluoroelastomer. Focus on your technical specs and supplier quality, not just the brand.