A Guide to Rubber Gaskets

A gasket is commonly used as a sealing component between two surfaces or materials for the purposes of preventing leakage. Gaskets are produced from a variety of materials, but the most commonly used are rubber gaskets. One of the benefits of rubber gaskets is that it prevents leakage while items are joined and compressed. These devices are especially useful for irregular surfaces, as the rubber gasket will deform and fill the space. Rubber gaskets will also prevent air or liquids from entering objects.

Applications of Rubber Gaskets

Rubber gaskets can be used for a variety of applications and devices. One of the common uses involves automobiles, where gaskets are applied in various parts of an engine. The gasket can prevent oil, coolant, and other liquids from spreading to other parts of a car, allowing the vehicle to run smoothly. Another common application of rubber gaskets is in household appliances and equipment, such as faucets, washing machines, and dishwashers.

Materials of Rubber Gaskets

Generally, rubber gaskets are made from styrene butadiene rubber (SBR), a standard type of material available. However, rubber gaskets can also be made from a variety of substances, made from a combination of chemicals and materials. The following are examples of the common types of materials used for rubber gaskets:

Styrene Butadiene Rubber:
This material can be used to create plain rubber and conductive rubber gaskets. Plain rubber gaskets can be used in a wide variety of low level applications, given its all-purpose, general nature. Some of the common uses of SBR rubber gaskets include heating and plumbing settings. However, conductive rubber gaskets are best for electrical applications, as it provides electric continuity.

Nitrile:
Nitrile is a commonly used elastic material, and possesses a fair amount of resistance from compression and abrasion. Rubber gaskets made from nitrile are best used for petroleum products, and should be avoided in electrical or high heat settings.

Fluorocarbon:
Fluorocarbon rubber gaskets have a high heat resistance, able to withstand temperatures up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore, this particular type of rubber gasket is best used for extreme heat and chemical resistance.

Silicone:
Silicone is a heat-resistance, rubber-like material that is used to create a variety of rubber gasket. These rubber gaskets possess a high compression resistance, as well as temperature and fire resistance. Therefore, silicone rubber gaskets are a popular option, utilized in a number of applications.