Threaded unions and Buna-N o-rings, OK to use?

[JamesR]

For the typical 2" union, the o-rings seem to be all Buna-N. In my work industry we like Viton, but I do not see that in the plumbing supplies or box stores. is Buna-N orings OK to use for pool water? No adverse reactions to chlorine?

 

[YippeeSkippy]

I'm not aware of those.... but I know some foliks who may be.....
Paging @Bama Rambler ! Paging @jimmythegreek
Paging @cowboycasey

 

[HermanTX]

For the typical 2" union, the o-rings seem to be all Buna-N. In my work industry we like Viton, but I do not see that in the plumbing supplies or box stores. is Buna-N orings OK to use for pool water? No adverse reactions to chlorine?

In the oil and gas industry, Viton was used when you needed broader temperature ranges. Nitrile (buna-n) is very economical with good sealing properties for many types of chemicals. Also storage of nitrile is much easier. Since the vast majority of pool equipment is easy accessible it becomes more cost effective to go with nitrile compounds to change them routinely. Chlorine, especially the formation of chlorine gas (like in your inline chlorinator) will become impregnated in nitrile but just do routine replacement as needed.

 

[Bama Rambler]

The chlorine is so low in pool water that Buna-N is fine to use without degradation for years.

 

[JamesR]

Thanks guys! I typically apply a little bit of pool/spa lube to the seals as well. Like you say, thy will be easily accessible, so if a drip occurs, its an easy/cheap fix. Just wanted to be sure I wasn't overlooking something.

 

[jimmythegreek]

They last years amd are easily replaceable, add a little lube like you said and your good to go