Bought Viton sheet in bulk and now worried about storing it properly? Are the sheets shrinking at the edges or swelling up?
Viton (fluoroelastomer / FKM) rubber sheet costs more than most commercial or industrial rubber sheet types, so improper maintenance is a real financial risk, not just a technical one.
This guide covers cleaning, storage, and inspection for Viton sheet in industrial use. It delivers strong performance in demanding applications, particularly where there’s exposure to strong chemicals, and it holds up well in extreme temperatures and harsh environments.
What is Viton (FKM) sheet made of?
Viton sheet is made from fluoroelastomer. “Viton” is a registered trademark of DuPont Performance Elastomers LLC, which is why the material is also referred to in the market as fluoroelastomer sheet or FKM sheet.
Viton sheet is used for sealing, insulation, and protection across chemical processing, automotive, and aerospace applications. Duratuf’s Fluoro75 Pro is a 100% FKM fluoroelastomer sheet, 1.95 SG, 75 Shore A hardness, 8 MPa tensile strength, rated -40C to +300C, built for heavy chemical and fuel exposure.
Getting the most out of it comes down to proper maintenance. Without the right care, even a premium Viton sheet will degrade faster than it should.
3 easy ways to clean Viton (FKM) sheets
Viton sheet gets dirty from environmental exposure, dirt, dust and grease all contaminate the surface over time.
What happens when FKM sheet gets dirty?
Contaminant buildup wears or corrodes the sheet. Left uncleaned, it degrades the surface texture and eventually the sheet’s performance. Maintain the sheet according to your manufacturer’s guidelines for the longest service life.
Follow these 3 steps to clean Viton rubber sheet:
- First, use mild soap and a soft sponge to clean the surface
- Second, avoid commercial acidic cleaners
- Third, air dry the sheet before use, since water can react with some chemicals it may later contact
Storing Viton rubber sheet
Viton sheet has strong durability, resilience and tolerance, but it can still wear down when exposed to conditions beyond its rated range. Recommended storage:
- Lay sheets flat or keep them in their original packaging
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Do not stack heavy items on top
- Keep away from harsh chemicals while in storage
A few precautions worth knowing:
Temperature:
Fluoro75 Pro is rated for continuous operation from -40C to +300C, one of the widest ranges of any rubber sheet Duratuf supplies. Repeated exposure at the extremes still causes gradual wear over time, so match the grade to your actual operating range rather than assuming headroom you don’t need.
Chemical environments:
Viton resists most acids, oils, and fuels, but certain concentrated chemicals such as amines or ketones can cause degradation. Check a chemical compatibility chart against your specific process chemicals before committing to a grade.
Avoid mechanical damage:
Sharp objects, heavy machinery, and abrasive surfaces cause mechanical wear. A protective layer of natural rubber sheet underneath can shield the Viton sheet from mechanical damage or direct sun exposure.
Replace on time:
Replace the sheet once it shows significant wear rather than waiting for complete failure. Replacement is cheaper than the equipment damage or downtime a failed sheet causes.
Is it time to replace your Viton sheet?
Visually inspect the sheet for:
- Cracks or cuts in the material
- Discoloration, which indicates chemical damage
- Swelling or warping, which signals chemical exposure or overheating
Conclusion
Maintaining Viton sheet properly saves you from unnecessary downtime and costly replacements. Regular cleaning, correct storage, routine inspection, and timely replacement are the four habits that matter most. Looking for Fluoro75 Pro pricing or specs? Get in touch today.
