It concerns me when reading various posts on this forum, just how many members are using, or considering using VITON 'O' rings in their projects.
I do not want to come across as an alarmist, but readers should be aware of some important facts regarding VITON.
If VITON®is used above 315°C the surface may contain hydrogen fluoride
condensate which may cause severe burns.
VITON 'O' rings and high temperatures are a BIG NO-NO! When viton is exposed to high temperatures, it degrades and one of the nasties produced is 'HYDROFLOURIC ACID' which is a deadly poison.
Aqueous hydrofluoric acid is a contact-poison with the potential for deep, initially painless burns and ensuing tissue death. By interfering with body calcium metabolism, the concentrated acid may also cause systemic toxicity and eventual cardiac arrest and fatality. (...and it only takes very small quantities to do the damage!)
I would NEVER even entertain the idea of using 'O' rings, especially Viton, in the applications many have suggested or in any application exposed to high temperatures on any engine.
If the Viton 'O' ring shows any signs of having a sticky, brown coating after use, DO NOT HANDLE IT with bare hands, remove it with a tool and dispose of it safely and then thoroughly wash the component that it was removed from.
For further information, just Google VITON MSDS or Hydroflouric Acid MSDS.
Work safe and stay alive,
Regards, Norman.
I do not want to come across as an alarmist, but readers should be aware of some important facts regarding VITON.
If VITON®is used above 315°C the surface may contain hydrogen fluoride
condensate which may cause severe burns.
VITON 'O' rings and high temperatures are a BIG NO-NO! When viton is exposed to high temperatures, it degrades and one of the nasties produced is 'HYDROFLOURIC ACID' which is a deadly poison.
Aqueous hydrofluoric acid is a contact-poison with the potential for deep, initially painless burns and ensuing tissue death. By interfering with body calcium metabolism, the concentrated acid may also cause systemic toxicity and eventual cardiac arrest and fatality. (...and it only takes very small quantities to do the damage!)
I would NEVER even entertain the idea of using 'O' rings, especially Viton, in the applications many have suggested or in any application exposed to high temperatures on any engine.
If the Viton 'O' ring shows any signs of having a sticky, brown coating after use, DO NOT HANDLE IT with bare hands, remove it with a tool and dispose of it safely and then thoroughly wash the component that it was removed from.
For further information, just Google VITON MSDS or Hydroflouric Acid MSDS.
Work safe and stay alive,
Regards, Norman.