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5 Things to Know Before Buying Custom Silicone Gaskets

Author: Faunus

Mar. 10, 2025

16 0

Tags: Mechanical Parts & Fabrication Services

Silicone Gaskets: A Comprehensive Overview - Strouse

You're on page 5 of 32 material selection pages' Getting sleepy yet? Rather than continue staring at nearly identical rolls of material, sit back and relax as we discuss whether silicone is the right choice for your application.  

If you want to learn more, please visit our website.

Silicone gaskets offer a wide range of heat-resistance and durability benefits, making them a popular choice for gasket manufacturing. 

As a converter, Strouse regularly builds custom gaskets for our clients. We're familiar with silicone's material behavior compared to other gasketing materials, so today, we'll explain its uses.

Read on to learn about the benefits and uses of silicone gaskets, plus what to consider when choosing a material for your gasket design. 

What is a Silicone Gasket?

If you're looking for multi-temperature range, high-performance mechanical seals with high resilience and durability, you should consider using silicone gaskets. 

Silicone gaskets can withstand high and low temperatures, making them a highly versatile material. Use them when you need a material with high-temperature resistance, a low compression set, and good electrical insulation

TYPES OF GASKETS

The type of material in your gasket depends on its intended use. For example, if you're dealing with a rigid object, you need a gasket that fits the set shape. Doors and moving structures need something more flexible.

Before you design a gasket, consider your needs, including temperature, pressure, corrosion resistance, availability, and cost.

Gaskets must be solid so they don't allow materials to pass through, and some need to handle energy discharge. You can have many different types of gaskets, including:

  • Pipe gaskets
  • Gasketing tape or adhesive
  • Gasketing foam

And many different materials, including silicone, neoprene, EPDM, Teflon, Gore-Tex, and graphite gaskets.

What Are the Uses of Silicone Gaskets?

Because of their versatility, silicone gaskets are used in many different industries.

AEROSPACE

Silicone gaskets resist extreme temperatures, UV light, ozone, and chemicals. Because they can handle extreme weather and temperatures without wearing down, they're often the right fit for airplanes, space shuttles, and similar vehicles. 

TRANSPORTATION

Silicone gaskets are stable and durable, maintaining their resilience and strength even in extreme conditions. Because they can handle unnecessary stress without issues, they are great for personal, commercial, or industrial vehicles. In addition, they reduce vibrations, provide high-quality radiator seals, and are otherwise used for mass transit systems like buses and trains.

COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS

In the construction industry, silicone gaskets seal HVAC systems and windows or doors. You can also use them in engine gaskets to vent ducts. 

Other uses of silicone gaskets include sealing food processing machinery and industrial ovens in the food industry. The medical industry uses them for medical equipment like healthcare devices and pharmaceuticals. 

What Are the Benefits of Silicone Gaskets?

Before we get into the different types of silicone gaskets, it's worth considering the properties that differentiate them from other gasketing materials.

There are thousands of materials to make gaskets, but silicone stands out thanks to the benefits that allow it to be used in indoor and outdoor applications. 

1. ABILITY TO WITHSTAND HIGH AND LOW TEMPERATURES

Silicone gaskets can withstand temperatures up to 392 degrees Fahrenheit continuously, which makes them great for many industrial applications. It can be exposed to high heat levels without degrading or wearing out. 

Silicone seals can also withstand heat up to 428 degrees Fahrenheit intermittently and withstand extremely cold temperatures, remaining flexible at as low as -94 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. EXCELLENT INSULATION

Silicone gaskets have conductive capabilities that make them excellent insulators of electricity. Blending silicone with nickel-graphite or silver-plated aluminum particles can shield electromagnetic interference (EMI).

Silicones are found in most high-voltage insulators and other electrical components. Different chemical reactions can cross-link them, making them non-reactive at high temperatures. The electrical industry relies on these non-reactive materials. Silicone can also be blended with semi-conductive carbon to prevent electromagnetic discharge.

3. HIGHLY DURABLE

Silicone gaskets are highly durable and resistant to UV light, ozone, and extreme weather conditions, making them ideal for outdoor gasketing

Plus, silicone's tensile strength and durability make the gaskets highly economical, as it is a reliable and stable material. You can use these gaskets for a long time without them showing wear, and once installed, they don't require much maintenance.

4. FDA APPROVED

Because silicone gaskets are FDA-approved, they can be used in medical equipment, health care instruments, and food processing plants. They can also be mixed with other FDA-approved materials for high tear strength.

Unlike asbestos gaskets, silicone gaskets are also physiologically inert (not toxic or harmful to people). Their high tear strength and inertness make silicone gaskets useful for healthcare, food processing, medical diagnostic equipment, and pharmaceuticals.

5. COMPRESSION SET RELIANCE

Compression set reliance means that silicone gaskets function well under pressure by returning to their original thickness even after being compressed for long periods. 

Silicone gaskets are a smart choice for a lower compression set. A compression of 100% means the material will never return to its original thickness. Lower compression set reliance materials ensure the material doesn't get deformed in certain temperatures.

Matching the compression set reliance of your material to your intended use is essential. If the gasket material deforms, the seal will fail, leading to leaks and contaminations.

6. FLAME RETARDANT

Silicone gaskets have low flammability levels, making them ideal for industries that generate excessive heat. They can also be used in telecommunications equipment and mass transit systems. 

Silicone gaskets meet Underwriters Laboratories (UL) testing requirements for fire safety and flame resistance, meaning they can achieve UL94V0, UL94V1, and UL94HF1 flammability standards.

7. WATER-REPELLING MATERIAL

Silicone gasket material is water-repelling, repelling liquids, resisting moisture, and maintaining a watertight seal. This sealing ability is essential for industries dealing with moisture or water and is great for outdoor use in wet weather conditions. 

What Are the Types of Silicone Gaskets?

Silicone gaskets can come in sheets or rolls of different thicknesses. Depending on your needs, you can also use solid, sponge, or foam silicones.

TYPE #1: SOLID SILICONE GASKETS

Solid silicone gaskets are not always soft but rather tightly packed and more rigid than sponge silicone. If you need a seal rating of IP67 or higher, you'll want to choose solid silicones. 

Solid silicones can offer exceptional sealing capabilities, but remember that they're challenging to compress because of their hardness and require 15 to 20% compression.

TYPE #2: SPONGE SILICONE GASKETS

Sponge silicone gaskets offer more cushioning and padding. They can be open-cell or closed-cell. Open-cell silicones contain pockets that allow water, air, and chemicals to pass unless the gasket is compressed.

Closed-cell silicones have pockets filled with nitrogen to prevent water, air, or other chemicals from passing through, even at low compression. They will need at least 50% compression. Sponge silicone gaskets have a higher temperature threshold of 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

TYPE #3: FOAM SILICONE GASKETS

Foam silicone gaskets can be soft, medium, firm, or extra-firm and offer different compression levels. Like sponge silicone gaskets, foam silicone gaskets need at least 50% compression. They can be open-cell, closed-cell, or a mixture of both, and their temperature threshold is 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

TYPE #4: DIE CUT SILICONE GASKETS

Die cut silicone gaskets are a common type of gasket, built using custom machine tools to create unique parts. 

If you're using your design with custom sizes and thicknesses, die cut silicone gaskets could be a good option. They're often a more economical option for large volumes, because thousands of die cut gaskets can be produced per hour

TYPE #5: MOLDED SILICONE GASKETS

Molded silicone gaskets provide a higher-performance seal than die-cut silicone gaskets. However, this might come at a higher upfront cost, even though both are good for high-volume production. 

TYPE #6: CONDUCTIVE SILICONE GASKETS

Conductive silicone gaskets are made up of a mix of high-quality silicone and conductive particles. They are filled with conductive materials like nickel, carbon, and silver-plated nickel and are used for electronic equipment.

TYPE #7: FDA (FOOD GRADE) SILICONE GASKETS

FDA-approved silicone gaskets are generally used in the food processing industry. They are odorless, tasteless, and fungus-resistant. They also can handle extreme cold and heat, making them ideal for places with food around, like dough or cake mixers.

TYPE #8: FLUOROSILICONE GASKETS

Unfortunately, silicone isn't ideal for oil or petroleum-based chemicals. Fluorosilicone, or fluorinated silicone rubber, is similar to silicone, except it can withstand extreme temperatures and resist fuels, oils, and other petroleum-based chemicals. 

Silicone Gaskets vs Rubber Gaskets

Choosing between a silicone and a rubber gasket will depend on your goals. Silicone gaskets can be more efficient and perform better than rubber gaskets, especially in extremely high temperatures.

Natural rubber can work well in temperatures from -58 degrees to 176 degrees Fahrenheit intermittently, whereas silicone can handle more extreme temperatures, from -94 degrees to 426 degrees intermittently. Natural rubber starts to wear down at 176 degrees and melts by 248 degrees.

The cost of rubber materials like SBR can make them more appealing than silicone in pricing. However, rubber is not used with ozone, strong acids, fats, oils, and grease. Silicone, on the other hand, can be used with these materials. You can use silicone gaskets in UV and extreme weather conditions for outdoor applications.

Ultimately, you'll want to consider your design and application before finalizing your product material, which leads us to' 

Choosing the Right Gasket Material For Your Solution 

Now that you know more about silicone gaskets, you're ready to pick out a gasket adhesive that suits your needs. Moreover, given the complexity of material behavior, you'll want more to go off of than simply matching the numbers on a data sheet.  

Before you finalize your design, you might want to test the material within your application. Requesting a design sample will allow you to see if silicone really is the best choice for your gasket design. 

Explore more:
What Makes BGO Crystal a Popular Choice?

You will get efficient and thoughtful service from SHOUJIA.

It's one thing to build the perfect gasket once, but how can you consistently manufacture your part to reduce the chances of product failure? 

We're here to help you through your product development process. Reach out to ask questions or request a sample. Lastly, please visit our Learning Center for additional resources.

Originally published: February 24,

Top 5 Things About Gaskets Designs You Need To Know About

Gaskets for sealing are essential in keeping machinery running smoothly in industries like automotive and aerospace. With the global gasket market expected to reach $10.3 billion by , it's more important than ever to get the design just right. At Elastostar Rubber Corporation, we providecustom rubber gaskets for your specific needs. In this guide, we'll guide you through the top 5 key things you need to know to make sure your gaskets work perfectly every time.

Let's get started!

Table of Contents

Top 5 things about Gasket Designs

1. Common Materials Used in Gasket Designs

A gasket is a mechanical seal that fills the space between two or more mating surfaces, preventing leaks and ensuring tight sealing. Gaskets are vital in various industries, such as automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing, where they help maintain efficiency and safety. The effectiveness of a gasket largely depends on the material used, making material selection a critical step in the design process.

Gaskets can be made from a variety of materials, each offering unique benefits depending on the application.

  • Rubber: Known for its flexibility and wear resistance, rubber gaskets are widely used in automotive and industrial applications where a reliable seal is essential.
  • Silicone: With excellent heat resistance, silicone gaskets are ideal for high-temperature environments, commonly found in aerospace and electronics.
  • Metal: Providing unmatched durability and strength, metal gaskets are preferred in high-pressure applications such as oil and gas pipelines.

Here's a comparison of key properties to help you choose the right material for your gasket and seal needs

This table highlights the strengths of each material, making it easier to match the right material with your specific gasket sealing requirements.

2. Unique properties for Gaskets Designs

The design of gaskets plays a crucial role in their effectiveness across various applications. Whether you're dealing with specific shapes or materials, getting the design right is important to ensuring a reliable seal and long-lasting performance.

Several critical elements must be taken into account when designing a gasket:

  • Thickness: The thickness of the gasket should match the application to ensure a proper seal without compromising flexibility or durability.
  • Shape: The shape of the gasket, whether it's a round gasket rubber or another Rubber form, must align with the surfaces it seals to prevent leaks.
  • Compression: Proper compression is essential to maintain the seal over time, accommodating any pressure or temperature changes.
  • Temperature Resistance: Materials like silicone can withstand high temperatures, making them suitable for environments where heat is a factor.
  • Pressure Handling: Metal gaskets are ideal for applications involving high pressure due to their robust structure.
  • Chemical Compatibility: In environments where the gasket will be exposed to chemicals, choosing a material that resists corrosion and degradation is crucial.

Are you wondering? below is the answer!

Should You Choose Standard or Custom Gasket Designs?

Deciding between standard and custom gaskets is a significant part of the design process:

  • Standard Gaskets: These are cost-effective and readily available, but may not always provide the best fit for complex applications.
  • Custom Gaskets: Customized designs, such as a U-shape gasket, offer a precise fit for unique needs, ensuring superior performance in challenging environments. At Elastostar, we specialize in creating custom gaskets that meet your exact specifications, perfectly matching your gasket and seal requirements to your application.

3. Applications of Gaskets Across Different Industries  

Gaskets are vital in many industries, keeping machinery running smoothly by preventing leaks and sealing connections. They play a key role in everything from automotive engines to aerospace systems, helping to ensure that equipment operates safely and efficiently.

Do you know?

Without gaskets, many critical systems would be prone to failure, leading to costly downtime and repairs.

Gaskets in the Automotive Industry

In the automotive sector, gaskets for sealing are essential in maintaining the performance of engines, transmissions, and exhaust systems.These sealing gaskets prevent leaks and ensure that fluids and gases are properly contained, contributing to the overall reliability and safety of vehicles.

Gaskets in Aerospace

In aerospace, the importance of gaskets and seals cannot be overstated. Aircraft and spacecraft operate under extreme conditions, requiring robust solutions like closed cell foam gaskets to maintain airtight and watertight seals. These gaskets are crucial for ensuring the safety and functionality of critical systems during flight.

Gaskets Function in Manufacturing

Gaskets in manufacturing, especially in applications involving pumps, compressors, and piping systems. A well-designed sealing gasket ensures that pressure is maintained and leaks are prevented, supporting the efficient and safe operation of industrial machinery.

4. Common Gasket Design Mistakes to Avoid  

Designing a gasket may seem simple, but even small mistakes can cause big problems. From picking the wrong material to tightening bolts too much, these errors can weaken your gasket and seal. 

Here's a look at some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Overcompression Issues

One of the most frequent mistakes is tightening the gasket too much. While it might seem like a good idea to tighten bolts as much as possible, doing so can actually damage the sealing gasket. When over-tightened, the gasket loses its flexibility, leading to a failure in the seal.

Did you know that over 50% of industrial gasket failures are due to overcompression? At Elastostar, we help prevent this issue by offering high-quality gaskets that meet industry standards, ensuring reliable performance in your critical systems.

Importance of Material Selection 

Choosing the right material for your gasket is crucial. The material must be able to handle the conditions it will face, like high temperatures, exposure to chemicals, or heavy pressure. If the wrong material is used, it can lead to leaks, quick wear, and even total failure, which can be expensive to fix.

Environmental Considerations

The environment where a gasket is used greatly affects how well it works.

For example, harsh chemicals can break down certain materials, causing the gasket to fail, especially at the curved sealed edge. It's important to think about temperature, chemicals, and pressure when designing your gasket to make sure it will last.

The gasket industry is changing quickly with new materials, technologies, and a focus on being more environmentally friendly.

Emerging Materials in Gasket Design

New materials, like advanced gasket sponge options, are improving flexibility and gasket sealing abilities. These materials are especially useful in tough conditions. At Elastostar, we create custom gaskets using these innovations to make sure they fit your exact needs.

Technological Advancements

Technologies like 3D printing and AI are changing how gaskets are made. These tools help us achieve more accurate gasket sizing and customization, ensuring that each gasket fits perfectly and performs better.

Sustainability in Gasket Manufacturing

As companies become more focused on sustainability, using recyclable materials and eco-friendly processes in gasket manufacturing is becoming more common. This shift helps reduce environmental impact while still delivering high-quality products.

These trends show that the future of gasket design is moving towards better performance, greater precision, and a stronger commitment to sustainability.

Why Choose Elastostar for Your Gasket Sealing Needs?  

At Elastostar Rubber Corporation, we provide more than just gaskets'we offer reliable, customized solutions to your specific needs. From Die Cutting Gaskets for electronics and aerospace to Rubber U Channel Gaskets for automotive and machinery, and Extruded Rubber Seals & Gaskets for doors and windows, our high-quality products are built to perform in tough conditions. With a focus on durability, reliability, and customer satisfaction, Elastostar is your trusted partner for all gasket sealing needs, whether standard or custom-designed.

Difference Between Silicone Sponge Rubber And Foam Rubber

Why are High Temperature Gaskets Popular & What They Are Used For

How to Choose the Best Rubber Gasket for Your Windows

Conclusion

Effective gasket and sealing is crucial not only for the safety and reliability of your machinery but also for optimizing performance and reducing downtime. At Elastostar, we are dedicated to delivering high-quality gaskets that not only meet your specific requirements but also enhance the overall output and efficiency of your systems.

Whether you need standard gaskets or custom solutions to unique challenges, our commitment is to ensure your equipment operates smoothly and consistently. Rely on us for dependable gasket solutions that contribute to the long-term success of your operations.

FAQs

What materials are commonly used for gasket sealing?

Common materials for gasket sealing include rubber, silicone, and metal. These materials are selected based on the specific needs of the application, like temperature resistance, pressure, and exposure to chemicals.

How do I choose the right gasket for my application?

Choosing the right gasket depends on your machinery's requirements, operating conditions, and the specific function of the gasket. Yes, consulting with a specialist, with Elastostar, can help you find the best fit, whether it's for a standard gasket or a custom gasket sealing solution.

What is the difference between standard and custom gaskets?

Standard gaskets are pre-made for common uses, while custom gaskets are designed to meet specific requirements, ensuring a better fit and performance. Elastostar rubber corporation offers both options to suit various applications, from automotive to aerospace.

How does over-tightening affect gasket performance?

Over-tightening can compress the gasket too much, causing it to lose flexibility and seal less effectively. This can lead to leaks and gasket failure, especially in areas that require precise sealing, like the extruded rubber T.

Why is it important to consider environmental factors when selecting a gasket?

Environmental factors like temperature, chemicals, and pressure can greatly impact how well a gasket performs. Selecting a gasket that can withstand these conditions helps ensure a longer-lasting and more reliable seal.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Custom Silicone Gaskets.

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