Are gaskets and seals the same thing? The answer can be confusing. They both make a seal to prevent leaks and guard against dust and particles. Both are made from flexible material, such as rubber, polyurethane or silicone. When you look at design and function, the distinctions start to emerge. In short, gaskets connect two separate pieces and create a seal through compression of the elastomeric material. A seal is usually fitted into the end of a shaft or a line to protect against leaks.

What’s a gasket?

While a gasket provides sealing function, these are some of the properties that distinguish it from a seal.

• Gaskets allow the connection between two components without the need to machine a metal part.
• Gaskets conform to the joint or flange, and maintain compression to block leaks and unwanted particles.
• Often used in static applications.
• Can be die cut from elastomeric materials into custom shapes to fit the parts.

What’s a gasket made of?

A gasket is part of a sealing system, and it has three main components:

• Flanges or joint, which is the flat surface the flexible material conforms to.
• Gasket, which is the die cut elastomeric material.
• Fasteners, which hold clamping force to maintain compression.

All three work together to create gasket compression to establish a seal. The compression is created by the clamping force of the gasket, and that pressure causes the elastomeric material to compress tightly.

How do you choose a material for a gasket?

Compression set resistance is one of the top considerations when choosing a gasket material, because the material’s ability to spring back to its original shape correlates with its sealing ability. As compression set creeps in over weeks, months and years, the gasket can gradually lose its ability to block leaks and contaminants.

Finding the right material requires factoring in the material’s hardness and the amount of pressure so you can achieve the protection and performance you expect. (A custom converter can help you identify the best material for your application.)

But in addition to compression set resistance, exposure to other elements, such as dust, excess heat, sunlight and solvents, can impact the material’s performance over time.

Excessive heat and ultraviolet rays can harden certain soft materials, so it loses conformity with the flange, which leads to leaks.

What’s a rubber seal?

Unlike gaskets, seals are most often used to prevent leaks in active applications and are fitted between moving or rotating parts, such as pumps, shafts and other engine components. If you think of the classic flat, round O-ring, that’s a seal.

Seals are often used to prevent leaks and are fitted to the end of a shaft or for sealing hydraulic lines. Seals are also used in bearings.

Rubber seals include:

• O-rings
• Valve stem seals
• Rotary seals
• Mechanical seals

As you’re designing your custom gasket, there can be confusion around the terms gaskets and seals. When it’s time to finalize your materials – the foam rubber and the pressure-sensitive adhesive backing – SRP has more than 70 years experience in custom gasketing. Call us today to get your project going.

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.

In gasket design, details matter. The more we know upfront, the faster and more accurately we can deliver the best-fit solution — on time and within budget. 

Use this checklist to prepare for your consultation with SRP and ensure a smooth process from start to finish.

1. Do you have a CAD file?

This may seem like an elementary question to most customers. However, those who are new to product design may not realize the importance of this step until the time comes to unite the various pieces and parts of your product with custom die-cut gaskets.

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.

Even if you’re still finalizing your design, sharing a preliminary CAD file helps us recommend the right cutting method and begin prototyping more efficiently.

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

Many customers overlook the nuances of factoring the right tolerance range for elastomeric materials. But during the design and planning stage, you’ll want to account for the small variations in dimensions that occur in a material during die-cutting. 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 range to hold everything together, we’ll need to look at higher-precision cutting methods. But that can increase your production and material costs, making the effort to identify the ideal tolerance range worthwhile 

Different materials behave differently during die-cutting. Softer foams may require wider tolerances than rigid elastomers — another reason we ask this early on.

Providing this detail 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 through the demanding 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?

For example, if your gasket needs to seal against water in an outdoor application, EPDM or BISCO® silicone may be ideal. 

If shock absorption or vibration damping is required, PORON® polyurethane or neoprene sponge may be more appropriate.

The more we know about the end product, the better we can assist you in the materials selection and manufacturing processes.

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

Some customers require extra documentation or testing — such as First Article Inspection Reports (FAIR), Certificates of Conformance (CoC), or material traceability reports.

Letting us know in advance helps us build your order to meet those expectations.

5. Does your project require a prototype?

If you need a prototype, let us know of any requirements that will be a part of your review .For high-volume or high-performance applications, we often recommend a quick-turn prototype to test gasket fit, sealing performance or adhesion.

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, but many gasket orders ship within 3–4 weeks. If your project is on a fast track, let us know — we’ll do our best to expedite depending on material availability and workload. All orders are made in the U.S. in our Illinois facility. 

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 specialized. 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?

Whether you need parts on a roll, individually bagged, or labeled for inventory management, we can customize the packaging to your workflow.

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.

SRP is a 3M™ Preferred Converter and a trusted partner for other top-tier material brands. Here’s what that means for you:

• Access to industry-leading materials
• Faster lead times on in-demand substrates
• Cost advantages through trusted supplier relationships
• Confidence in consistent, high-quality production

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

Let SRP be your resource for custom gaskets 

Ready to get started? Fill out our online form for a fast, accurate quote.

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

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 pressure sensitive adhesive that can be cut to size to join two materials to effectively seal out liquids, dust, gases and more. Compared to using liquid and spray adhesive, gasket tape provides a peel-and-stick solution that simplifies production without sacrificing on quality.

The advantages of pressure sensitive tape on gasket design: 

• Unlike rivets and fasteners, gasket tapes make your design less bulky, while also dampening noise and vibration.
• Gasket tapes made with pressure-sensitive adhesives offer immediate handling strength, with some (like acrylic-based tapes) continuing to build bond strength over time for enhanced performance.”
• 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: 3M VHB tape transfer tape and double-sided tape. Use this overview to help you narrow your selection and identify which tape types to evaluate further in your design process.

Types of gasket adhesive tapes 

3M^TM VHB Tape for custom gasket assembly

3M^TM VHB Tape is widely used in gasketing applications where both sealing and structural bonding are required. While not a traditional compressible gasket, its closed-cell foam core provides excellent sealing performance in many designs.

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.

VHB tape can join two dissimilar surfaces, such as: aluminum, steel, glass, plastic as well as painted and powder-coated surfaces.

Adhesive transfer tape for custom gasket assembly

Adhesive transfer tape consists of adhesive only — without a carrier layer. It can be applied directly to sheets of rubber, foam rubber, or silicone to create a custom gasket material. Once laminated to the substrate, the material can be slit to width, then die-cut or laser-cut to your exact dimensions.

This process results in a peel-and-stick gasket with no added bulk — ideal for low-profile applications where maintaining flexibility and conformity is important. Just peel the liner, and the adhesive instantly bonds to your chosen surface

Double-sided tape for custom gasket assembly

Double-sided tape includes an internal carrier (typically film or tissue) with adhesive coated on both sides. It provides added dimensional stability and is well-suited for bonding materials like rubber and foam for gasket applications.

Like adhesive transfer tape, double-sided tape can be laminated to sheets of rubber, foam rubber, or silicone. The laminated material is then converted — through slitting and precision die cutting — into custom gasket tape that fits your design. When it’s time for assembly, simply peel the release liner and apply the tape to the mating surface for an instant bond.

Find information and data sheets on our thin-bonding materials. 

How do you choose the best pressure sensitive 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-based adhesives are a cost-effective option that offer quick initial tack to natural and synthetic rubber substrates. However, they tend to degrade more rapidly under UV exposure and heat than silicone or acrylic adhesives.
• Acrylic gasket tape forms a strong, lasting bond to rubber materials, even when exposed to harsh environments.
• Silicone gasket tape offers strong resistance to high temperatures, UV and chemicals, making it ideal for extreme environments — especially when paired with silicone-based substrates.

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 converting capabilities. Contact SRP with your material and design requirements – we’ll get you fast accurate quote within one business day. 

EPDM and Neoprene have well-earned 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.

EPDM and Neoprene are sometimes 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 ultraviolet 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.

[Explore our selection of sheet rubber gaskets of closed cell sponge rubber formulations featuring blends of Neoprene and EPDM.] 

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.

Neoprene is not compatible with:

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

[Read more in our blog Which Properties of Neoprene Make it a Good Choice for Gaskets?]

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 (TMIs) 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.

Why are these needed? 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 allowing air to pass between the heat sink and components. Since air is not a good conductor of heat, these gaps would allow heat to build up and collect, potentially causing damage to sensitive components. 

Thermal interface materials with high thermal conductivity are used to fill those gaps to improve heat conductivity between the CPU and heat sink, preventing damage from overheating and extending product life. 

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 made up of deep ridges, allowing gaps of air to help channel heat away from sensitive components. 

Some thermal interface materials solve a common problem in machinery and electrical components. All too frequently, these components have rough, uneven and wavy surfaces, making it difficult to establish surface contact to establish  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 and allowing the heat to flow from the component and into the heat sink. 

There are a number of heat management materials and solutions, but the two most common are thermal interface units and thermal paste.

How to apply thermal interface materials

Applying thermal interface pads

Many thermal pads are silicone-based but acyclic gap pads can provide a cost-effective alternative that works just as well when supplies and costs are a consideration. To install a thermal pad, simply peel the adhesive backing and apply. If these are die-cut to size in advance, assembly is faster with a higher degree of accuracy. 

Applying thermal paste

Apply a thin line of thermal paste on the 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

Thermal pads are less messy than thermal paste 

Applying thermal paste can be a messy process. Thermal pad installation is simply peel and stick and its ready to be moved and handled. 

Effectively fills larger or irregularly sized gaps

Thermal Pads can come in various thicknesses making it easier to hard to fit gaps, whereas thermal paste must be applied in a uniform thin layer, requiring skill and precision to apply evenly and in just the correct amount. You need to apply enough paste to effectively conduct heat. However, applying too much product to fill larger gaps can backfire because the overage can provide insulation to the application, hindering the heat transfer it was designed to provide. 

Easier Installation

Thermal Pads can be custom die-cut to the exact specification of the component for a perfect fit, every time. Simply remove the liner from the tacky surface and apply. 

Better conformity to irregular surfaces 

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

Certain thermal pastes require curing time, which can delay assembly and take up space that could be used for production. Others, however, are ready to perform upon installation. Still, the advantage is thermal interface pads allow the component to be moved and handled immediately after assembly. 

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 – and how to avoid them 

When using thermal interface materials, steer clear of these common application errors.

• Combining thermal pads and thermal pastes, in most instances, will reduce the thermal conductivity needed to effectively reach the heat sink. For larger and hard to fit gaps, thermal pads are your best bet. 
• Stacking thermal pads can be detrimental to 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.
• Reusing thermal pads can diminish performance. 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.
• Irregularities in sizing can make performance less effective. Using a pad that is too small may leave critical areas exposed, while a pad that is too large can cause poor seating or overlap that traps air. Custom die-cut pads ensure precise coverage for consistent heat transfer.
• Failing to clean component surfaces before applying the thermal interface material can trap debris or oils that interfere with thermal conductivity. Always clean surfaces with isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth before application.
• Applying too much or too little pressure on the thermal pad can reduce its effectiveness. Some materials require a specific compression range to reach optimal performance. Follow manufacturer guidelines for compression force, especially in applications with torque-controlled fasteners.

Find your custom thermal solution with SRP 

Since 1951, SRP has been building customer relationships through precision converting solutions. We offer:

• Custom die-cut thermal interface pads
• Material sampling and prototyping
• Scalable manufacturing and on-time delivery from our Illinois facility
• Expertise to match the best materials to your application

Whether you’re developing a new product or optimizing an existing design, SRP is your partner in thermal management. Ready for a quote? Show us your design and we’ll have a fast, accurate quote within one business day. Fill out the online form or call 847-593-5630.

No fasteners. No welds. No rivets. 

Automotive manufacturing is undergoing a transformation — not just in design, but in the methods used to assemble vehicles. As new technologies evolve, manufacturers are seeking ways to boost speed, reduce costs and improve quality without sacrificing safety.

For decades, fasteners, welds and rivets have become increasingly 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 other solutions.

Why acrylic foam tape is replacing rivets and welds in automotive design

Enter foam tapes as your solution to rivets, screws and welds. Acrylic 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.

3 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.

1. Mechanical strength & environmental performance

Foam tapes such as 3M^TM VHB^TM Tape 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 including EV battery systems 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.

2.  Assembly efficiency & production benefits 

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 precision 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.

3. Aesthetic improvements & end-user experience

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.
• Satisfies requirements of specific automotive model program requirements since 1978.
• Read more about the benefits of using 3M™ bonding 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 

For extended details and data sheets, visit our materials page dedicated to 3M™ Acrylic Foam Tapes.  

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 RT8012US 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.

Custom bonded solutions by SRP

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.

Ready to start your project? Spend us your specifications and we’ll provide a fast, accurate quote within one business day. 

What are foam gaskets?

Foam gaskets offer excellent barrier and bonding performance across a wide range of applications. SRP sources premium materials — including silicone, EPDM and neoprene  — and uses precision die-cutting to produce custom foam gaskets designed to make your application or product complete and functional. 

Top applications for foam gaskets:

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

Foam gaskets are used in just about any industry, including: 

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

What is the difference between open-cell and closed cell foam gaskets?  

Foam gasket material comes in a range of cell structures, primarily open cell and closed cell. 

Open cell foam gaskets are primarily used for shock or vibration applications. 

Closed cell foam gaskets are used for environmental seals, especially when the material is exposed to challenging outdoor conditions, such as sunlight, dust, cold and moisture.

Types of foam gaskets: Comparing silicone, EPDM and neoprene 

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.

When to choose a silicone foam gasket 

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 gaskets are used in these industries:

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

What are the benefits of using 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 electromagnetic interference (EMI), offering protection to electrical components and the end users.

Top industries for EPDM foam gaskets:

• Appliances
• HVAC
• Electrical
• Construction
• Automotive

Why choose Neoprene for your foam gasket material? 

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

[Explore our selection of sheet rubber gaskets featuring Neoprene and EPDM.] 

SRP’s Custom Foam Gasket Manufacturing

At SRP, we don’t don’t just make gaskets. We 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 demonstrates our commitment to the success of our customers. We’re a preferred supplier of Rubberlite and Rogers Corporation ensuring you get access to premium materials that perform. 

Choose SRP for your sponge and foam gaskets. We’re independently owned and operated, with U.S. based manufacturing in our Elk Grove Village, Illinois facility. To get a quote, fill out the form or call us — you’ll have an answer in less than one business day.