Die-cut PORON polyurethane foam is an excellent material for gasket design because it has an excellent compression set, while also working well with pressure-sensitive adhesives.

PORON can compress to more than half its thickness without losing memory, which makes it a long-lasting, effective seal in many applications. PORON polyurethane has a reputation for maintaining its compression set for the life of the product. When it comes to demanding applications, like aerospace, automotive or industrial, PORON is a highly reliable option to guard your product against leaks and other causes of the gasket failure.

Though a material like PORON has a sterling reputation for its compression set resistance, it’s critical to analyze the application to prevent gasket failure. Choosing the wrong foam density, hardness and thickness can lead to precisely that.

In the following, we’ll explain the compression set and how PORON polyurethane can help you minimize it.

[Read more about SRP’s PORON custom gasket capabilities]

What is compression set?

Compression set measures an elastomeric material’s ability to return to its original thickness after exposure to compression and high temperature for a specific amount of time.

Permanent set measures the extent of deformation after exposure to compression for a specific time.

Why does compression set matter?

When choosing the right material for gaskets, sealing and cushioning, factoring compression set is critical. But it’s also important to know how long the materials can stand up to squeeze. Would it need frequent replacement or will it last the life of the product?

In time, a loss of resiliency (or memory) can result in leaks or inability to absorb shock. The material’s long-term compression set resistance can be the difference between a successful product and a failed product.

When calculating compression set, you’re measuring resiliency – what percentage of thickness does it recover after compression? The range is 0% compression set to 100% compression set. The lower the percentage the higher the compression set resistance.

What causes compression set?

When the compression set of your elastomeric material is higher than expected, there may be underlying causes where the conditions exceed what the material can handle. For example:

• Temperature: Excessively high heat that leads to hardening and resiliency loss.
• Compression: Excessive squeezing (for example, over-tightening).
• Fluid: Material is incompatible with the fluids.

While considering these, consulting with an experienced fabricator of elastomeric materials can help you avoid these issues.

Why does compression set resistance matter?

Compression of the elastomeric material creates a seal protecting components from dust, dirt, moisture as well as solvents and chemicals. While most elastomeric materials can achieve a low compression rating, compression set gives you an indication of the life of the seal.

To maintain a good seal, you need a material that resists – or bounces back – from prolonged compression. However, prolonged compression can cause an elastomeric material to lose height over time. Compression creep doesn’t necessarily show up during materials testing.

PORON’s compression set resistance

PORON is a dense foam rubber made of uniform microcells with a compression set resistance that’s similar to silicone, making it a highly sought-after gasket material. These microcells allow the material to spring back to its original shape and thickness, even after a high force compression. It’s available in a range of thickness, hardness and density.

How do you choose the right PORON material?

Even though PORON is resistant to compression set, it’s still important to choose the appropriate density and hardness for your application. To guide you, PORON provides a Compression Force Deflection (CFD) Curve Tool that shows how the material performs in specific applications.

Adhesive-backed PORON solutions

SRP is proud to be one of 60 Preferred Converters for Rogers Corporation materials. Once you have your data and your selection of PORON materials narrowed, our technical experts can help you finalize your choice.

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

Contact an expert today.

Choosing the strongest and best adhesive every time would certainly simplify your design process, but it’s not always cost effective. When it comes to choosing between pressure-sensitive tape vs liquid adhesive, it comes down to the application, and how the adhesive needs to perform under the conditions.

What will the gasket be exposed to? You’ll be considering factors like temperature, solvents and climate conditions. Which industry standards would the product need to comply with? Once you’ve completed a likely use analysis on the product, you can get started on choosing an adhesive.

Pros and cons of spray and liquid adhesives

Spray adhesives are the go-to for many industries and applications because they provide a strong, lasting bond for an attractive materials cost. Other advantages:

• Fast application, by spray, roll or brush for immediate assembly.
• Great coverage, especially if you’re applying it to an irregularly shaped surface.

But when you consider other factors of using liquid adhesives, this route can end up raising your production and materials costs.

• Liquid adhesives can be applied manually or by machine, meaning they come with operational and equipment costs.
• Liquid adhesives need time for curing and drying, which means it can be minutes or even more than an hour before the item reaches full handling strength.
• Liquid adhesives can add an extra step of cleanup, thanks to drips and spills.
• Liquid adhesives can leave odors and fumes in a work space, which requires additional venting to ensure a safe and pleasant work environment.
• When applied properly, liquid adhesives can provide a strong, lasting bond. However, they don’t always apply evenly, disrupting the bond and the performance of your product.

Why use pressure-sensitive tape in gasketing?

The big advantage of using pressure-sensitive tape for a gasket over liquid adhesive is efficiency. Pressure-sensitive tape saves time on the production floor while minimizing costs.

• A converter partner applies the pressure-sensitive tape directly to the surface of the gasket material before cutting the custom shape. Once you’re ready to apply the gasket to the substrate, simply peel the protective backing and place it on the surface, while applying pressure for a brief time.
• It’s versatile because an adhesive-backed gasket can be done manually or through automation.
• Curing time is also a key advantage. While the adhesives need time to gain full bonding strength, most PSAs reach handling strength immediately after handling.
• Consistency of coverage makes PSAs an attractive option. In the converting process, you’ll know the gasket has full, even coverage of adhesive. It eliminates the risks from gaps and bubbles.
• Appearance: In addition to leaving no drips, pressure-sensitive tape create a seamless bond between the gasket and material. If you’re looking to update your design, making your product lighter and more streamlined and attractive, PSAs can provide a solution across many industries.

To learn more, read The upside of using adhesive transfer tape in gasket bonding.

Working with a converter partner to create a custom cut, adhesive-backed gasket can improve your production processes. Bottom line, PSAs are more versatile, faster curing and they improve the appearance of your design. But are PSAs strong enough to do the job? PSAs are used across many industries, including demanding ones such as aerospace, automotive and industrial, so there’s a wide availability of highly engineered adhesives that come in PSA form that stand up to the toughest conditions.

For a deeper dive, read A quick guide to gasket adhesive tapes.

As you make the selection, working with a converter partner can help you select the best tape for your gasket that can achieve the protection and performance you’re looking for.

SRP is proud to be part of the 3M Preferred Converter network. Being a Preferred Converter means we get priority access to the best materials in the industry at the best pricing. We pass these benefits on to our customers.

Learn more about our custom gasket and converter capabilities. Contact SRP and request a quote.

In addition to finding the right gasket material to link two unlike surfaces, finding the right fastener that holds everything together is the next step.

In the making of custom-made gaskets, adhesive transfer tape is the fastener of choice, especially once you compare this option to more traditional fasteners:

Mechanical Fasteners

Bolts, rivets and screws are the mechanical go-to because of the strength but also for the fact they create a bond you can see and feel. On the downside, mechanical fasteners add weight and bulk to your design. During assembly, they create an extra step of labor that requires equipment and a special skill set. Plus, over the life of the product, metal parts can loosen, causing annoying rattling and vibrations during use.

Liquid and Hot Melt Adhesives

Liquid and hot melt adhesives are an effective means to create a strong, lasting bond between two unlike substrates, whether it’s metal to plastic or acrylic to silicone. However, this option requires specialized equipment in-house. Also, drying and curing add time to the production schedule.

Welding

This option provides all the strength of a mechanical fastener, but the result is that slim profile that we like to see. However, welding requires skilled labor, and can’t create bonds of equal strength when joining two dissimilar surfaces.

Why use adhesive transfer tape in gasket bonding?

Adhesive transfer tape provides the solution to all the above problems. When adhesive transfer tape is layered on the gasket material and cut to the specified dimensions, it creates the ultimate peel-and-stick solution to your gasketing needs.

Other advantages of using adhesive transfer tape as a gasket fastener:

Streamlines Production

Adhesive transfer tape bonds immediately and builds strength over time. But it requires no drying, no curing, and the item can be handled right after application. Unlike liquid and hot melt adhesive, production can move to the next step.

Low Profile

Adhesive transfer tape is super thin and lightweight, adding no bulk to your design.

Flexibility

Uneven surfaces can be bonded together without the worry of the adhesive losing its grip.

Strength

Stress and pressure are evenly distributed across the gasket surface to provide the best performance.

Versatility

Adhesive transfer tape has no carrier. It’s adhesive placed on a silicone liner that peels away easily when you need it.

Adhesive Transfer Tape: The Ideal Converter Material

Adhesive transfer tape provides a blank canvas for a variety of projects and products. Because its applications are almost unlimited, adhesive transfer tape is the ultimate converter material. Compared to other fasteners, it’s a simple and inexpensive method to join two surfaces.

Adhesive transfer tape is simply a strip of adhesive placed on a liner. When used as a gasket fastener, it’s applied to the gasket material before it’s cut.

During the production of the converter, the liner stays put. Not only does this liner provide a backing material for your peel-and-stick gasket, but during cutting, the liner is an effective means of keeping the adhesive in place. Because the liner minimizes any stretching and moving, this converter method provides complete adhesive coverage. This creates an effective fastener. This also enhances any sealing function you require of the gasket – an important consideration if you’re using solvent- and water-resistant substrates, such as silicone or Neoprene.

SRP is proud to be part of the 3M Preferred Converter network. Being a Preferred Converter means we get priority access to the best materials in the industry at the best pricing. We pass these benefits on to our customers.

Learn more about our custom gasket and converter capabilities. Contact SRP and request a quote.

When it comes to product design, there’s no such thing as too many details. When it comes to gasket design, a complete set of details helps us come up with the best possible plan to hit your deadlines and stay on budget. When preparing your gasket consultation, use this checklist as a guide.

1. Do you have a CAD drawing?

This may seem like an elementary question to most customers. However, those who are new to gasket design may not be familiar with the details we require.

Converting your gasket design to a CAD provides us with the best representation of the gasket’s visuals and dimensions. This information lets us identify the material cutting method that best fits your requirements, including tolerance range, deadlines and budget, so we can give you a fast and accurate quote.

2. What is the gasket’s acceptable tolerance range?

Many customers don’t think to factor this in. But during the design and planning stage, you’ll want to account for the small variations in dimensions that occur in a material when it’s cut by a specific method. These variations (tolerances) are often imperceptible to the naked eye.

Most gaskets function flawlessly within the standard tolerance range. But if your gasket requires a tighter-than-standard tolerance to hold everything together, we’ll need to look at higher-precision cutting methods.

Providing this data early lets us choose the cutting method that’s best for your gasket.

3. What does your gasket do?

Successful gasket design considers the material’s ability to protect and hold in the conditions the product would be exposed to. In most cases, there would be a specific set of specifications to follow, which consider things like:

• Temperature: What temperature range would the material be exposed to?
• Location: Is this an indoor or outdoor application?
• Resistance to UV rays, chemicals and solvents: What would the material be exposed to, and how much and how often?
• Flame resistance: Would the material require a particular flame rating?
• Gasket function: What will the gasket be sealing or protecting?

The more we know about the project, the better we can assist you in the design and manufacturing processes.

4. Any quality requirements for your gasket’s project approval?

As we plan your project, it helps to know your firm’s review process after the order is filled. If you know of any out-of-the-ordinary parameters, indicating it upfront can save us both time and money. Some companies require specific quality samples and prototypes, backed with datasheets and inspection reports. (A common one is the First Article Inspection Report.) It’s equally common for companies to not require this level of review.

5. Does your project require a prototype?

This ties into the above quality review question. If you need a prototype, let us know of any requirements that will be a part of that review.

6. What is your lead time?

At SRP, we build custom gaskets to order. We keep materials in stock, but we don’t maintain a warehouse of finished products. We typically quote 4-6 weeks for orders, though we’re usually ready to ship them out in 3-4 weeks. If your project has a tight deadline, keep in mind that material availability and other factors can come into play.

7. What are your packaging requirements?

Packaging requirements can run the gamut in the gasket business. It’s an often-overlooked question that can affect the gasket delivery, especially if you’re looking for something unusual. Will you need a barcode for inventory management purposes? Will the gaskets need to be packaged in plastic zip-close bags, or would bulk packaging suffice?

8. Are you prioritizing gasket makers within the Preferred Converter network?

When you’re looking to use specific gasket materials and adhesives for your project, you may have noticed that SRP is a part of the Preferred Converter network with several material providers, including 3M. What does a preferred partnership mean to you? There are several benefits, which makes it an important feature to look for when you’re looking at gasket partners.

Being in the Preferred Converter network gives you access to the best materials in the industry. This is a point of pride for us because we know our customers can count on getting the highest quality materials at the highest standards. Not only that but being in the Preferred Converter network means we get the best available prices and lead times for the materials you need.

In short, the Preferred Converter label is a signal to you that a company can provide top-notch materials and service.

Learn more about our custom gasket and converter capabilities. Contact SRP and request a quote.

When it comes to choosing materials to assemble your product, gasket tapes offer benefits for both product design and assembly.

What is gasket tape? Gasket tape is foam with adhesive backing that comes in a roll that can be cut to size to seal out liquids and gases. Compared to using liquid and spray adhesive, gasket tape provides a peel-and-stick solution that simplifies production without sacrificing on quality.

• Unlike rivets and fasteners, gasket tapes make your design less bulky, while also dampening noise and vibration.
• Though glues and spray adhesive provide excellent bonding strength with rubber and silicone gasket material, pressure-sensitive tape requires no drying and curing time. Gasket tape reaches handling strength right after it’s applied to the surface, making production more efficient.
• Gasket tape contributes to a cleaner and safer production environment, with no fumes or special equipment handling.

To bring your product to life with gasket tape, work with an experienced converting partner who can die-cut your gasket tape – or custom make a peel-and-stick gasket that meets your design requirements.

The key to choosing the right gasket tape is finding the right tape structure and adhesive. The best tapes used for gasketing are: very high bonding tape, adhesive transfer tape and double-sided tape. Use this overview to help you narrow your selection so you can finalize your design.

Very high bonding tape

Very high bonding tape is the go-to gasket foam tape. Its bond builds strength over time, while the adhesive and the closed cell foam core maintains its performance when exposed to high temperatures and solvents.

Because of its high-strength acrylic adhesive, very high bonding tape can take the place of rivets and screws, making your product design smoother, more streamlined and lighter – not to mention you can eliminate the rattle and vibrations that accompany loosening screws and rivets.

Along with taking the place of foam or rubber gaskets, this high bonding foam gasket tape can join two dissimilar surfaces, such as: aluminum, steel, glass, plastic as well as painted and powder-coated surfaces.

Adhesive transfer tape and double-sided tape

Though foam gasket tape comes in many widths, thicknesses and material, sometimes it’s better to create a custom gasket tape. Adhesive transfer tape and double-sided tape can be applied directly to sheets of rubber, foam rubber or silicone. Then, through a custom slitting process, the materials are converted into a foam gasket tape.

The material can then be cut to size and die or laser cut to your specific dimensions. When you’re ready to fasten your custom gasket tape to your product, simply peel the backing, and it will instantly adhere to your chosen surface.

How do you choose the best tape for a rubber gasket?

That depends, because the adhesive transfer tape and double-sided tape are available in different chemistries and bonding strengths. This quick overview shows how they compare.

• Rubber gasket tape is cost-effective, adhering to synthetic and natural rubber material more quickly than silicone and acrylic adhesive tapes can. However, the biggest downside is the adhesive in rubber tapes deteriorates after prolonged exposure to sunlight.
• Acrylic gasket tape forms a strong, lasting bond to rubber materials, even when exposed to harsh environments.
• Silicone gasket tape provides strengths and resistance to harsh conditions, but is most effective when bonded with silicone gasket materials.

SRP is proud to be part of the 3M Preferred Converter network. Being a Preferred Converter means we get priority access to the best materials in the industry at the best pricing. We pass these benefits on to our customers.

Learn more about our custom gasket and converter capabilities. Contact SRP and request a quote.

EPDM and Neoprene have earned their reputations as being durable, all-purpose gasket materials. Whether the goal is to make a tight protective seal or silence annoying vibrations, these flexible synthetic rubber gasket materials can be safely used in many industrial and consumer applications.

These materials sometimes get confused for one another, but the choice often comes down to price and properties. EPDM provides an excellent electrical insulator, while Neoprene is more chemical resistant and makes a good thermal insulator.

Neoprene is an elastomer that is also called chloroprene, and is made of a combination of carbon, hydrogen and chlorine polymers. EPDM is an acronym for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, a synthetic rubber that’s derived from polyethylene.

In the following, we’ll unpack the similarities and differences between Neoprene and EPDM to get you started on choosing the best material to make a strong, safe seal.

How are Neoprene and EPDM similar?

Excellent outdoor application

Neoprene and EPDM both withstand outdoor conditions extremely well, withstanding ozone and ultra-violet rays. They also maintain their flexibility, even in extremely cold outdoor temperatures, down to -70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can also weather extremely hot days, enduring for years even in the harshest climates.

Noise and vibration resistance

EPDM and Neoprene both provide excellent noise resistance, dampening the force of sound and vibrations for the end user.

Tough and rugged

Both Neoprene and EPDM rubber are rugged elastomers, with excellent resistance to rips and abrasions.

Tolerate compression

Neoprene and EPDM are rated as having a good pressure set, giving them the ability to maintain their fabricated form, even after compression and elongation.

What are the top advantages of EPDM over Neoprene?

Blocks electrical interference

The chemical properties of EPDM make it an excellent electrical insulator as it blocks electrical interference from entering a component, protecting the products as well as the people using them.

[For a deeper dive read Identifying the proper electrical enclosure gasket]

Resists water and steam

Though Neoprene is water resistant, EPDM is considered the most water resistant of the elastomers, as it doesn’t swell or react to water. EPDM maintains a tight, safe seal, without leaching chemicals.

Withstands higher temperatures

EPDM withstands temperatures as high as 220 degrees F for sponge rubber, up to 250+ degrees for sheet rubber.

Less expensive

From a price point, EPDM is usually the less expensive material compared to Neoprene.

EPDM is resistant to:

• Diluted acids
• Diluted alkalis
• Phosphates
• Polar solvents
• Ketones
• Fireproof hydraulic acids

EPDM is not compatible with:

• Oils, greases and fats (otherwise it becomes swollen)
• Concentrated acid
• Halogenated solvents
• Hydrocarbon fuels
• Aromatic hydrocarbons

[Looking for the right adhesive? Read our blog: Choosing the proper adhesive for an adhesive backed gasket]

How does Neoprene differ from EPDM?

Excels as a thermal insulator

Neoprene is an excellent material when it comes to blocking the conduction of heat from one component to the next.

Oil resistant

Neoprene’s main advantages over EPDM is its resistance to fats, grease and oil. Unlike EPDM, there’s no swelling after exposure to these substances.

Resistant to refrigerants

Neoprene can stand up to Freon and ammonia, making it a reliable seal for refrigeration components.

Chemical resistant

Neoprene was developed to resist many types of chemicals and solvents.

[Learn more in Neoprene gaskets – types and applications]

Neoprene is not compatible with:

• Aromatic and oxygenated solvents
• Esters
• Ketones
• Chlorinated, aromatic and nitro hydrocarbons

Before selecting the right gasket material for your product, conduct a chemical analysis of the components to help you determine whether Neoprene or EPDM would function as ideal gaskets for your product.

To learn more about our proven sealing capabilities, contact SRP and request a quote.

What’s it like to collaborate with SRP to create a custom gasket for your project? At SRP, we take the partnership approach with each customer. In the following, we’ll show you who we are, and our approach to making each project a success.

SRP is a family-run custom gasket manufacturer

We can’t talk about ourselves without touching on our history. SRP was founded in 1951. Now that we’re in our eighth decade of business here in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, we’ve seen many changes over the years. But we’re still independently owned and operated, transitioning into our third generation, and that’s something to celebrate. Not only that, but three other families in our workforce of 50 have also built their careers here.

This success wouldn’t be possible if SRP weren’t doing something right. We arrive each day as a tight-knit team that’s vested in the success of every project that comes in. We know your success is our success.

The evolution of SRP as a custom gasket manufacturer

Our company started out as Standard Rubber Products. Today, we’re known as SRP because we’ve taken things beyond the basic rubber gasket:

• Materials: We work with a wide range of elastomeric materials, including neoprene, EPDM, silicone, polyurethane, as well as electrical insulation materials, and many more.
• Adhesives: SRP is a preferred converter for 3M, which enhances our technical expertise, quality and value.
• Die-cutting solutions: With our expertise, we’ll help you select a cutting process to optimize costs and quality of your gasket.
• Industries and products: Our gaskets are designed for a wide range of products that people use every day, including: electrical products, appliances, industrial machines, medical equipment, consumer products, military and defense, power tools and many more.

Though we’ve evolved to work with sophisticated materials and complex gasket shapes, we still live by one business basic: We know your business is riding on the seal we help you create. Our commitment is making a custom gasket that works for your product.

What’s the SRP advantage?

Our point of pride is in how we partner across many industries as well as companies of just about any size. This includes a number of Fortune 100 companies and here are a couple of reasons why.

• Fast quotes: Once we have a detailed plan for the materials and cutting process, your quote will arrive in less than two business days.
• Nimble processes: When your design team collaborates with SRP, our expertise across multiple industries and sealing materials ensures a smooth and seamless partnership.

At the same time, SRP is small” enough to provide personalized service. We find that companies of any size find value in that and it keeps them coming back.

• Your SRP account manager has visibility and communication across the entire organization. When you need an update or have a concern about your project, getting answers and solutions is a fast and seamless process.

Getting started on your custom gasket project

SRP maintains no standard products and has no off-the-shelf items. Each gasket design is designed and customized for the specific product. Often, this process starts in one of two ways:

• Detailed specifications for a fast start: Some customers, particularly well-established companies with on-staff engineers, provide a complete conception of their desired gasket that details all the materials and dimensions needed for the project. After a brief consultation, we can recommend a cutting process and set up a quote.
• Complete design collaboration: If you lack the technical and materials expertise to set up a gasket project, don’t worry! Our team is here to help. We can provide samples and create prototypes, so you can move forward knowing you have the right seal for your product.

To learn more about our proven sealing capabilities, contact SRP and request a quote.

Thermal Interface Materials are a critical aspect in the design of electronic components, making the difference between a working product and a faulty product. The purpose of Thermal Interface Pads is to provide a preferential heat transfer path between heat-generating components like integrated circuit chips (CPUs) and heat spreaders such as a heat sink.

If you take a close look at the surface of a CPU or a heat sink, the surface will never be entirely even or level. There will be minuscule bumps, spaces and gaps between the two that will allow for air to pass through the components. Since air is not a good conductor of heat, these gaps have a very negative effect on the heat transfer.

Thus, a Thermal Interface Material with high thermal conductivity is needed to fill those gaps to improve heat conductivity between the CPU and heat sink.

What are thermal interface materials?

Thermal interface materials transfer heat from one surface to another. Ultimately, the goal is to dissipate heat generated from an electrical or mechanical component and into a heat sink, which is usually made of aluminum, copper or even ceramic. The heat sink is deeply ridged, creating air gaps between the ridges, creating an ideal format to dissipate heat.

Some thermal interface materials solve a common problem in machinery and electrical components. All too frequently, there are rough, uneven and wavy surfaces, making it difficult to establish the needed surface contact to create sufficient thermal conductivity to get it to flow away from the component. That’s when thermal interface materials serve as gap fillers. It’s specially cut and fitted to create a tight-fitting connection between the two elements, filling the air pockets with thermally conductive material.

Thermal interface materials connect the component, allowing the heat to flow from the component and into the heat sink. There are a number of materials and solutions to transfer this heat, but the two most common are thermal interface units and thermal paste.

How to apply thermal interface materials

Applying thermal interface pads

A thermal interface pad is most often a silicone pad joined to a heat sink. The silicone pad provides thermal conduction that transfers heat from the component to the heat sink. Applying the thermal pad is a simple matter of peeling the adhesive backing on the silicone and sticking to the silicone pad.

Applying thermal paste

Applying thermal paste is a matter of applying a thin line of thermal paste on one component, allowing the weight of the heat sink to spread the paste as you join the materials. Thermal paste is made of thermally conductive materials, such as metallic elements, ceramic or silicone.

Advantages of Thermal Interface Pads Vs. Thermal Paste

No Mess

Applying thermal paste can be a messy process. Thermal Pad installation is simply peel and stick.

Fills Bigger Gaps

Thermal Pads are available up to .25 inches, as opposed to the thin layer of thermal paste.

Even Application

Thermal paste takes skill and precision to apply evenly and in just the right amount. On one hand, you need enough coverage to conduct the heat. On the other hand, applying too much product would result in messes and waste.

Easier Installation

Thermal Pads can be custom die-cut to the exact specification of the component for a perfect fit, every time.

Conformity

Thermal Pads conform precisely to uneven and irregular surfaces to eliminate gaps. The silicone layer of the thermal pad becomes softer and more pliable in higher temperatures; by applying light pressure, you can achieve an even snugger fit.

Faster Assembly

Thermal paste has a curing process, which means there’s a wait for the substance to harden so the assembled item can be moved or handled. The curing that accompanies thermal paste adds time to the assembly and occupies work space.

Important Aspects to Consider When Choosing A Thermal Interface Material

When developing electrical components, the design and engineering teams should work closely together to determine key design and functionality factors:

• The amount of electricity that would be generated from the components
• Identify any gaps early in the design phase to prevent design changes down the road

Doing this could save a lot of time and money when it comes to prototyping and testing.

Application mistakes with Thermal Interface Materials

When using Thermal Interface Materials, steer clear of these common application errors.

• Never combine Thermal Pads and Thermal Pastes. Thermal Paste will reduce the thermal conductivity to pass through the Thermal Pad to reach the heat sink.
• Avoid stacking Thermal Pads. This will decrease the material’s performance. One Thermal Pad with the correct thickness and thermal conductivity rating is all that is required to solve even the most stringent application issues.
• If you ever remove a heat sink, the Thermal Pad will need to be replaced to properly conform to the surface. Be sure to remove any debris that may have entered the component as well.

 

SRP: BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS THROUGH CONVERTING SOLUTIONS SINCE 1951

SRP provides customers with everything from material sampling and product prototyping to full manufacturing, packaging and delivery. We provide value to our customers by delivering exceptional customer service, engineering solutions and quality products to meet their every need.

For more information, you can reach SRP at info@srpco.com or 847.593.5630.

Ready for a quote? Show us your design and we’ll get you an answer in less than two business days.

NO FASTENERS. NO WELDS. NO RIVETS.

We are living in a time when automobiles are constantly changing. Not just the design, but the way they are manufactured. The system in which automobiles are being produced is also evolving.

With technology evolving at a rapid rate, manufacturing and assembly of automobiles is becoming more and more efficient every year. Whether it’s automation or manual assembly, companies are looking for the next method to increase speed and reduce expenses without sacrificing safety.

It has long been known that the use of fasteners, welds and rivets is becoming obsolete for interior and exterior applications in automotive and recreational vehicles. They simply do not provide the performance, aesthetics or ease of installation compared to the competition.

AUTOMOTIVE FOAM TAPE: YOUR BEST BET

Enter foam tapes as your solution to rivets, screws and welds. Foam tapes are not a new technology. In fact, they have been around for decades. What is new, however, are emerging applications for foam tapes. As foam tapes evolve, they find their way into new industries for different uses, including sealing gaskets for electronics, attaching glass panels to skyscrapers, and bonding nameplates and logos to various substrates.

Because acrylic foam tape eliminates the need for fasteners, welds and rivets, it can transform the performance, efficiency and price for a variety of applications.

Benefits of automotive foam tapes by 3M

Acrylic foam tape from 3M is more than just a tape. Decades of sophisticated engineering have resulted in a standard-bearing bonding system designed to create a strong, enduring bond that resists degradation from environmental conditions. For that reason, 3M acrylic foam tape is ideal for automotive applications.

Using custom cut 3M automotive foam tape in place of mechanical fasteners:

• Results in a lighter, more streamlined component
• Enhances the look of your product
• Maintains the integrity of the seal.

Not only that, but using 3M automotive foam tape in your custom converted product will also result in meaningful savings in time and labor.

Mechanical benefits of Acrylic Foam Tapes by 3M

3M foam tapes are made with a viscoelastic formula that allows the adhesive to flow into the surface while building strength, lending it robust shear and peel strength properties with a long-lasting performance that automotive components demand.

• The foam core of 3M acrylic foam tape has unique stress-relaxation properties, allowing it to expand and contract with temperature changes.
• Adhesive is engineered for elongation and stress relaxation.
• Foam core is designed to dissipate stress forces when exposed to high stress load.
• Flexible foam core of double-stick acrylic foam tape allows tape to conform to irregular surfaces and gaps.
• Acrylic adhesive resists exposure to temperature fluctuations, weather conditions, UV rays and solvents during the life of the product, making it well suited to automotive applications.

Assembly benefits of automotive acrylic foam tape

Replacing rivets and other mechanical fasteners on automotive components with acrylic foam tape can improve uptime and throughput in the assembly process:

• Acrylic foam tape can be die-cut into intricate shapes, and attached to elastomeric materials for easy peel-and-stick attachment when assembling automotive components.
• Lack of drilling and riveting reduces the need for training and labor, along with the risk of injury.
• Assembly of acrylic foam tape can be completed manually or with automation.
• Tapes require no drying and curing, and reach handling strength shortly after application.
• Streamlining of processes and materials results in less labor and costs.

Aesthetic benefits of 3M Acrylic Foam Tape

Automotive foam tape streamlines and improves the appearance and function of the design.

• Eliminates the need to use unsightly bolts, rivets and screws.
• Smoother surface creates attractive, aerodynamic design.
• Elimination of mechanical fasteners greatly reduces opportunities to develop rust when exposed to rain and other weather events.
• Reduces the need to drill into automotive painted surfaces.
• Ability to absorb sound and vibration reduces rattling and muffles sounds, creating a more pleasant experience for the end-user.

The 3M advantage

Using 3M Acrylic Foam Tape for your automotive custom converter product has several important advantages.

• Backed by a full range of support services for automotive applications.
• Assurance that performance of the adhesive meets the product and design engineering requirements of the automotive application.
• Has satisfied the requirements of specific automotive model program requirements since 1978.
• Read more about the benefits of using a 3M bonding system in your custom converter product.

Top applications of 3M Acrylic Foam Tape

The following are typical automotive applications of 3M Acrylic Foam Tape:

• Attachment of trim parts
• Bonding seals throughout the car body
• Door and window seals
• Door cladding and inlay
• Roof rails
• Spoiler
• Rocker panel / body side molding
• Parking sensor retainers

ACRYLIC FOAM TAPES FOR THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

3M Acrylic Plus Tape Series PT1000

This black, double-coated acrylic foam is designed to attach automotive exterior trim parts, including claddings and body side moldings.

3M Tape Series PT1000 offers the following key features:

• High conformability
• Black, high-strength core with low elongation properties
• Cold temperature impact resistance
• Easy liner release

3M Acrylic Foam Tape GT7108

3M Acrylic Foam Tape GT7108 is suited for attaching emblems, nameplates, moldings, step pads and other automotive trim. When applied to traditional paints, this gray, acrylic foam tape has very good adhesion.

3M Acrylic Foam Tape GT7108 offers the following features:

• Demonstrates excellent conformability and wet out on a range of automotive applications
• Maintains adhesion during the shrinkage and elongation of the part caused by temperature changes, while simultaneously maintaining good stress relaxation properties
• Provides very good final adhesion and peel strength
• Performs well in a wide range of weather, solvent and temperature conditions

3M Acrylic Foam Tape RT8012US

The 3M Acrylic Foam Tape GT7108 was developed for automotive applications, specifically for attaching trim and other exterior parts.

Its acrylic adhesive formula is designed to apply to a wide range of automotive paint systems.

3M Acrylic Foam Tape RT8012US offers the following features:

• Excellent adhesion to traditional auto paint and many advanced paint systems.
• Supports heavier parts including spoilers and claddings.
• Provides stress relaxation when exposed to high loads and maintains tight bond-line aesthetics under normal conditions.
• Helps ensure good bond-line appearance.
• One-piece release and efficient tape application.

SRP has provided custom gasket fabrication and die-cutting services since 1951. SRP is a Preferred Converter of 3M’s line of pressure sensitive adhesives and foam tapes in the converter markets.

For more information about 3M’s line of Acrylic Foam Tapes, you can visit our website, or call us at 847.593.5630.

What are foam gaskets?

Foam gasket material is a versatile solution that provides superior barrier and bonding capabilities for a wide range of products and applications. Available in Polyurethane, Neoprene, EPDM and silicone, SRP can custom design and die cut foam gaskets to create a seal that’s compatible with the application.

Common applications for foam gaskets:

• Gasketing
• Cushioning
• Sealing
• Mounting
• Insulation
• Noise reduction
• Vibration control
• Electrical absorption
• Fluid restriction
• Weather resistance

Foam gaskets can be applied to wide range of industries. Some of these include:

• Appliance
• Automotive
• HVAC
• Medical
• Electronic
• Lighting

Open cell vs. closed cell foam gaskets

Foam gasket material comes in a range of cell structures, from open cell to closed cell. Open cell foam gaskets are primarily used for shock or vibration applications. Closed cell foam gaskets are used primarily for environmental seals where the material would be exposed to challenging outdoor conditions, such as sunlight, dust, cold and moisture.

Types of foam gaskets

As you choose a foam gasket material, it’s important to make sure it can stand up to the environment and media it will be exposed to, including temperature, moisture, UV rays, chemicals and solvents. The following can help you get started in narrowing your selection.

Silicone foam gaskets

Silicone foam is a pliable, flexible, high-performance material that’s extremely versatile, providing many solutions across a wide berth of products and industries. Silicone foam provides excellent electrical insulation, is an effective flame retardant and it’s a high-temperature gasket material in comparison to Neoprene and EPDM. In terms of durability, silicone foam has good tensile strength and excellent compression set, it maintains flexibility in cold temperatures and resists UV rays.

Silicone foam is used in these industries:

• Electronics
• Industrial
• Aerospace
• Construction
• Automotive
• Medical
• Consumer products
• HVAC

EPDM foam gaskets

EPDM foam is a versatile, all-purpose material that has several unique applications in several industries. Available in closed cell or semi-closed cell, it maintains its pliability even after prolonged exposure to environmental conditions. It also has a good compression set, reverting to its original shape after pressure and stretching. Along with hot temperature resistance, up to 220 F, it has excellent water resistance, and is best suited for wet and steamy conditions compared to other foams. EPDM foam is an excellent material for blocking electrical interference, offering protection to electrical components and the end users.

Top industries for EPDM foam gaskets:

• Appliances
• HVAC
• Electrical
• Construction
• Automotive

Closed Cell Neoprene foam gaskets

Closed Cell Neoprene foam gaskets are the go-to as a form-fitting, pliable but long-lasting seal for electrical components. Because Neoprene is resistant to UV rays, heat, cold and moisture, it is effective at sealing out the elements, as well as any dust and dirt. Neoprene foam’s resistance to oils, refrigerants and many chemicals makes it well suited for electronic applications. Neoprene foam is also effective at absorbing sound and vibration. When fastened with an adhesive backing, it’s an effective solution for unwanted noise and buzzing.

Top industries for closed cell Neoprene foam gaskets:

• Appliances
• HVAC
• Electrical
• Construction
• Automotive

SRP’s Custom Foam Gasket Manufacturing

Our sponge and foam gasket fabrication services can include more than supplying you with the foam gasket you need. We can also help with design assistance, material selection, prototyping and more. We are an experienced company that is quality-focused and our more than half a century in business illustrates our commitment to the success of our customers. Choose SRP for your sponge and foam gaskets. We create die-cut solutions to meet your needs.

With an excellent reputation for quality and customer service, we are a solution-focused company that is available to help you with your unique gasket needs. Do you need gaskets in another material besides foam? We can also help with Neoprene, silicone rubber and many others, including high-temperature gaskets and chemical-resistant solutions.

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