Gaskets are rarely the center of attention, but without them, the machinery we rely on daily would fall apart. These small yet mighty components ensure tight seals between various machinery parts, preventing leaks and maintaining pressure where and when needed.
For decades, asbestos was the go-to material for gasket production. However, safer alternatives, including rubber and silicone, are now the norm. Each material has unique qualities and potential applications in various operational environments. Understanding their different composition and functionality can help you choose which is best for your industrial needs.
Sur-Seal is a leading manufacturer and supplier of premium engineered components, including custom gaskets. Our reputation for excellence has led to us being the component manufacturer of choice throughout the United States. From aerospace to renewable energy, automotive, and healthcare, we ensure your business has the custom gaskets it needs to achieve its goals.
When considering rubber versus silicone for gaskets, it helps to know the composition of each material and how they differ.
Rubber can be either natural or synthetic. Natural rubber is derived from the rubber tree’s latex sap and primarily consists of poly(cis-1,4-isoprene), a polymer of isoprene units. Synthetic or manufactured rubber comprises various monomers, often derived from petroleum, using different polymerization techniques. Common synthetic rubbers include neoprene and styrene-butadiene rubber. All rubbers tend to have a high degree of flexibility and elasticity.
Silicone (polysiloxane) comprises silicon, oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen atoms. Silicone rubbers are often elastomeric, meaning they return to their original shape after being stretched. Most silicones are created by polymerizing siloxane monomers that give them thermal stability, chemical resistance, and electrical insulating properties.
A side-by-side comparison of rubber and silicone reveals several key differences.
Rubber typically exhibits higher elasticity than silicone, making it more suitable for applications requiring frequent and intense flexing.
Silicone generally surpasses rubber in terms of temperature resistance and can withstand both higher and lower temperature extremes.
Silicone also has superior resistance to UV light, ozone, and harsh weather conditions, which can, over time, impact rubber’s structural integrity.
On the chemical front, silicone tends to be better rubber in resisting various chemicals and oils.
Silicone vs. Rubber: Choosing the Right Material for Your Gaskets
Which material is suitable for your application? That depends on its specific demands and the environmental factors it will be subjected to. Balancing factors like temperature, pressure, chemical exposure, and mechanical stresses ensures you select the material that meets your immediate requirements and assures long-term reliability.
Rubber gaskets are generally more cost-effective than silicone ones, making them a popular choice for applications where budget is a primary concern. Their flexibility and elasticity make them suitable for applications requiring the material to stretch without permanent deforming. Rubber also tends to provide superior resistance to wear and tear, making it a good choice for dynamic applications such as industrial hoses and automotive parts, where the material will be subject to movement and friction.
Silicone gaskets are ideal when chemical stability, temperature, and weather resistance are a priority. Silicone maintains its properties over various thermal conditions and is resistant to UV light, ozone, and different weather conditions. Its inertness makes it a fitting choice for applications that demand high resistance to chemicals and oils, including in the aerospace, food processing, and medical device industries.
Why Choose Sur-Seal?
Regardless of your chosen material, you must ensure the gaskets meet your most demanding applications. Sur-Seal designs and manufactures custom die-cut gaskets that won’t break the bank.
AS9100 and ISO9001 certified, we’re the country’s leading gasket experts, offering high-quality solutions that are second to none. For over 40 years, our can-do attitude has ensured businesses throughout the Southeast get faster, better, and more affordable service for their custom projects.
