Which Properties of Neoprene Make it a Good Choice For Gaskets?

Neoprene is a material that can be found in a variety of industries and applications due to its versatility. It is especially common when it comes to custom gaskets and pressure-sensitive seals. In a previous article, we covered the different types and applications of neoprene gaskets, and now we will expand on why neoprene is classified as such a superior gasket material.

Solid Neoprene Vs. Neoprene Sponge

The first order of business when understanding neoprene and its applications is to differentiate between solid neoprene and neoprene sponge.

Solid neoprene is, as one can imagine, much more dense and compact than neoprene sponge. This increased density results in a form of neoprene that is more resistant to tears and cannot be compressed as easily, which results in a higher level of durability. Solid neoprene is a good option for use in applications that necessitate a higher level of strength or an increased rate of wear and tear.

Neoprene sponge is a foam-like version of neoprene, and the type of neoprene we specialize in here at SRP. This variation is much softer and easily compressible, making it a perfect option for uses in gaskets or seals that necessitate a complete seal. In addition to its sealing properties, neoprene sponge also excels at vibration and sound insulation.

Multiple resistances

Whether a project calls for solid neoprene or neoprene sponge, one of the biggest advantages of using neoprene is the material’s natural resistance to many different variables that the gasket may experience. Both forms exhibit very similar properties with only slight variations, which we will explore below.

Weather

Neoprene is extremely suitable for outdoor environments due to the material’s low oxidation rate. This means, of course, that water and other non-toxic liquids have very little effect on the material’s degradation in the long run.

In addition to water resistance, neoprene is also a high-rated material in its defense against sunlight and UV damage. In terms of pure temperature, neoprene can withstand temperatures as low as -50F and as high as 275F. While it is best to not push the material to its extremes, this temperature range shows that neoprene is an extremely versatile material for nearly any outdoor condition imaginable.

Compression

In addition to being extremely durable and tear-resistant, neoprene rubber performs very well under compression. Its natural elasticity makes it a perfect option as a gasket that experiences or will experience moving parts or compression forces.

Solid neoprene and neoprene sponge have slightly different compression rates, with solid neoprene being less compressible and neoprene sponge being more compressible. Therefore, if compression rate is a crucial variable to your application, it is important to make the distinction.

Chemical and oil

Neoprene naturally defects petroleum-based substances such as various oils and greases, and can even stand up against certain mixtures that include alcohol and different mixtures on the extreme ends of the PH scale.

Cushioning and protection

Expanding further on neoprene’s compression resistance, the material can easily be customized to fit perfectly between the needed components, and provides an extremely tight yet flexible seal. Usually, neoprene comes in at 40-80 on the durometer scale, meaning it is a great option to withstand compression forces and avoid any potential leaks or operational failures.

Once again, this is where solid neoprene and neoprene sponge differ slightly, with solid neoprene being less compressible.

We can help

Neoprene is a great option for gaskets due to its multiple resistances, the cushioning and protection it provides, the lightweight properties, and ease of use and installation.

At Standard Rubber Products Co. (SRP), we custom design gaskets and seals using a variety of materials for customers in many industries. We’re proud to say we’ve been serving our customers for more than 70 years. We work with a variety of industries: electronics, industrial, automotive, medical, HVAC, lighting, aviation, aerospace, furniture and more.

Our dedicated team of engineers is ready to assist you with your next project and provide you with the expertise and quality materials for parts and components that meet your exact specifications.

SRP is also a 3M Preferred Converter. When you’re looking for the best peel-and-stick backing for your custom die-cut neoprene gasket, our unmatched technical expertise will guide you to the best choice.