Category Archive: Gaskets

Key Considerations in EPDM Rubber Gaskets

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Rubber gaskets are essential in many industries, playing a crucial role in sealing various applications from moisture, dust, and other contaminants. Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) gaskets have become increasingly popular among the different rubber gaskets available. This is primarily due to their remarkable endurance and ability to resist weathering, ozone, and UV exposure.

EPDM rubber gaskets boast several advantages over other types, such as excellent flexibility, low compression set, and good chemical resistance. This makes them suitable for demanding environments and widely used in various applications, including automotive, construction, HVAC, and aerospace.

Several factors must be considered when selecting and using EPDM gaskets for particular applications to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Here are some of the key considerations that one should keep in mind while working with these types of rubber gaskets:

1. Material Properties

The durometer or hardness of EPDM gaskets is essential when selecting the appropriate product for your application. A softer gasket can conform to irregular surfaces and provide a better seal. Conversely, a harder rubber gasket can resist deformation and maintain a reliable seal under pressure.

Another important property to consider is the compression set. EPDM has a low compression set, which allows the gaskets to maintain their original shape and form, providing a reliable and consistent seal. This is paramount for sealing applications requiring long-lasting seals, such as automotive or construction industries.

2. Temperature Range

EPDM gaskets are well-suited for use in environments with extreme temperatures because they resist such conditions remarkably. Their capacity to withstand temperatures from -50 to 150 °C enables them to be used in various industries. However, it is worth noting that the temperature range that a specific EPDM gasket can tolerate depends on its formulation and application.

3. Chemical Compatibility

When selecting an EPDM gasket, it is crucial to consider the compatibility of the material with the chemical it will come into contact with. Although they are known for their excellent chemical resistance, exposure to certain substances can cause the rubber to degrade or break down. This can lead to failure in the product’s sealing capabilities. Examples of chemicals they may not be compatible with include petroleum-based oils and fuels, aromatic solvents, and certain halogenated hydrocarbons.

4. Pressure Rating

The pressure rating is the maximum pressure the gasket can withstand without deforming or failing. This can vary depending on the size and shape of the rubber and its intended application. As for EPDM, they are available in a range of pressure ratings, from low-pressure to high-pressure applications. Hence, selecting a type with a pressure rating exceeding the maximum pressure of exposure is crucial.

5. Surface Preparation

Before installing an EPDM gasket, it is essential to ensure that the surfaces that the gasket will be in contact with are clean and free from any contaminants. This is because contaminants — such as dust, dirt, and grease — can prevent the gasket from forming an effective seal, leading to leaks and other issues.

Surface preparation requires a thorough cleaning using an appropriate product or solution. This solution will depend on the type of surface and the nature of the contaminants present. For example, a solvent-based cleaner may be suitable for removing oil from metal surfaces, while a mild soap solution is appropriate for cleaning plastic surfaces.

Choose Custom Gasket Manufacturing for High-Quality EPDM Rubber Gaskets

At Custom Gasket Manufacturing, we pride ourselves on delivering precision die-cut and molded EPDM rubber gaskets and seals to applications and industries worldwide! Our commitment to excellence is demonstrated by consistently delivering high-quality products that meet the most stringent standards. We strive to meet your blueprint specifications and exact tolerance requirements.

Contact us for additional details on custom-made EPDM rubber items or to talk with one of our experts! You can also request a quote now.

SBR (Red Rubber) Gasket Material Properties, Benefits, and Applications

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Styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) — also known as red rubber — is a synthetic copolymer of styrene and butadiene with characteristics that are very similar to those of natural rubber. It makes an excellent gasket material due to its good physical properties, such as tensile strength, abrasion resistance, and low-temperature flexibility.

This article will discuss everything you need to know about SBR gaskets, including their material properties, benefits, and applications.

SBR Gasket Material Properties

SBR gaskets are made of abrasion-resistant rubber, one of the most popular elastomers for sealing components. It is available with a smooth plate finish or a textured fabric finish, which improves seal adhesion. It can also be compounded as a skirtboard rubber and is utilized as a lining rubber, conveyor belt cover, and others.

Red rubber gaskets are preferred for flange gaskets used with hot or cold water. However, they are unsuitable for applications involving oils, fuels, solvents, or hydraulic fluids.

Here is a closer look at the material properties of SBR gaskets:

  • Polymer: Styrene-Butadiene
  • ISO/ASTM Designation: SBR
  • Durometer Rating (Hardness): 70
  • Elongation: 200%
  • Finish: Plate, Fabric
  • Gauge (Thicknesses): 1/16 in., 1/8 in., 3/16 in., 1/4 in., and 3/32 in.
  • Grade: Commercial (Meets D1330 Grade 1)
  • Pressure Sensitive Adhesive (PSA): Available upon request
  • Temperature Range: -22° F to +158 °F
  • Tensile Strength: 600 PSI
  • Widths: 36 in., and 48 in.

SBR Gasket Benefits

The red rubber gasket is commonly used in various applications due to its low cost and deformability to uneven flange edges. It also offers the following advantages that make it the material of choice for industrial processes:

  • Ability to withstand extreme heat
  • Excellent tensile and impact strength
  • Exceptional durability in applications requiring contact with water, air, and steam
  • Good performance in general industrial and plumbing applications due to its relative hardness
  • Low-temperature flexibility
  • Resistance to abrasion

Red Rubber Gasket Applications

SBR gaskets are ideal for applications that do not necessitate resistance to high temperatures, oils, or other chemicals. It is particularly suited for the following industries and uses:

Construction

The construction industry heavily depends on high-quality rubber gaskets to complete many projects. These sealing components perform various functions, including shock absorption, material adhesion, and protection against moisture damage. Particularly, a red rubber gasket has great sealing properties, making it a popular option in the industry.

HVAC

SBR and other rubber gaskets are widely utilized in HVAC systems for water and steam pipes and tubes. They sustain efficiency by preventing heated and cooled air loss. They also seal opening panels, flaps, and doors, reduce motor vibration transmission, and enable thermal expansion and contraction.

Plumbing

The plumbing industry utilizes seals and gaskets for pipes and valves in restrooms, lockers, drainage channels, and interior piping installations. Additionally, they regulate the flow of acids and steam that could damage the system.

Custom Gasket Manufacturing: The Leading Supplier of High-Quality SBR Gaskets

Custom Gasket Manufacturing specializes in die-cut and molded SBR rubber gaskets and seals for various industries and applications! Our primary goal is to consistently surpass our customers’ expectations by offering them high-quality products, competitive rates, on-time delivery, and superior customer service.

We offer red rubber gaskets in the following grades:

  • Commercial Grade SBR
  • Nylon Inserted SBR
  • Premium Grade SBR
  • Specification Grade SBR (Red or Black)

To inquire about our custom SBR gaskets or to speak with one of our experts, contact us or fill out our online quote request form.