When choosing material for a custom gasket application, going through the temperature, environment, media and pressure criteria may leave you with a few options. Silicone probably won’t be the cheapest, but it could be the most cost-effective. Here’s when and why to consider custom silicone gaskets.
Excellent Sealing Properties of Silicone
Silicone remains flexible from -94 to 392°F (and withstands temperatures up to 500°F for short periods). It takes a very low compression set, retaining its ability to seal over hundreds of opening and closing cycles. It’s tensile strength is up to 1,100 psi.
Silicone Material Broad Chemical Compatibility
Silicone repels water and resists attack by ozone and UV light, making it a good gasket material for outdoor applications. Being chemically inert, It resists weak acids, most alkalies and hydraulic fluids and oils. Where it performs less well is in resisting attack by strong acids and solvents.
Available in Multiple Grades and Material Thicknesses
Silicone gasket material is produced in sheet form with thicknesses up to ¼”. (Contact us if you need thicker.) It’s made in a range of formulations with various hardnesses and strengths. Colored silicone is available, as are FDA and medical grades.
For greater compliance in lightly-loaded sealing applications, consider using closed or open cell silicone foam.
Size and Shape Options
Custom gaskets often need very specific or unusual features or dimensions. Ask your custom silicone gasket maker what processes they have and about their size and shape capabilities.
At Hennig Gasket & Seals we use waterjet cutting for especially challenging gaskets. Waterjet yields a very smooth edge and can cut features as small as ¼” diameter. Flash, die and hand cutting are also available, depending on quantity required.
Silicone, For Long-Lasting Gaskets
Besides offering a wide temperature range and good chemical resistance, silicone makes a very durable material. If you have applications where a joint, cover or door will be opened and closed multiple times, silicone will probably continue to seal longer than other materials. This can make it very cost-effective when compared to materials like EPDM, neoprene and nitrile. Contact us to learn more.
