NBR (Nitrile) (acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber, typically 70 Shore A) is the default elastomer for oil and hydraulic sealing. When usit rings (self-centring bonded seals) are specified in this grade, the dimensions remain per Trade series (self-centring bonded washers, USIT type); the material determines corrosion behavior (good resistance to mineral oil, grease and hydraulic fluid; poor in ozone and weathering) and the service temperature range (approx. -30 °C to +100 °C). Both are covered below with the size table.
Why Choose NBR (Nitrile) for USIT Rings (Self-Centring Bonded Seals)
The default elastomer for oil and hydraulic sealing. For usit rings (self-centring bonded seals), this matters when good resistance to mineral oil, grease and hydraulic fluid; poor in ozone and weathering is the primary requirement.
Mechanical & Physical Properties
| Grade designation | acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber, typically 70 Shore A |
|---|---|
| Magnetic response | Non-magnetic |
| Service temperature | approx. -30 °C to +100 °C |
| Corrosion characteristic | Good resistance to mineral oil, grease and hydraulic fluid; poor in ozone and weathering |
Galvanic & Galling Considerations
Galvanic and galling behavior do not apply to usit rings (self-centring bonded seals) in NBR (Nitrile) — the relevant compatibility questions are chemical: confirm the elastomer against the fluid, the temperature and any cleaning agents in service, and check the gland or groove dimensions give the intended compression on the section.
Comparable Grades
For usit rings (self-centring bonded seals), consider FKM where temperature or chemical exposure is higher, or EPDM where the medium is water, steam or brake fluid rather than oil. Elastomer selection is decided by the medium, the temperature range and whether the seal is static or dynamic — not by strength.
Sizes of USIT Rings (Self-Centring Bonded Seals) Available in NBR (Nitrile)
| Thread | Seal element | Metal carrier | Typical service |
|---|---|---|---|
| M6 | NBR inner lip | zinc-plated steel | hydraulic ports and plugs |
| M8 | NBR inner lip | zinc-plated steel | hydraulic ports and plugs |
| M10 | NBR inner lip | zinc-plated steel | hydraulic ports and plugs |
| M12 | NBR inner lip | zinc-plated steel | hydraulic ports and plugs |
| M14 | NBR or FKM inner lip | zinc-plated or stainless | hydraulic and fuel |
| M16 | NBR or FKM inner lip | zinc-plated or stainless | hydraulic and fuel |
| M18 | NBR or FKM inner lip | zinc-plated or stainless | hydraulic |
| M20 | NBR or FKM inner lip | zinc-plated or stainless | hydraulic |
| M22 | NBR inner lip | zinc-plated steel | hydraulic |
| M27 | NBR inner lip | zinc-plated steel | hydraulic |

