Applications in a wide variety of industries utilize rubber seals. Industries such as food processing, medical equipment and supplies, automotive, and construction utilize rubber seals. Rubber sealants are highly durable and can withstand a high amount of pressure and stress. However, certain environmental factors can have an impact on rubber seals so it’s important to understand the potential risks. This includes the temperatures surrounding the given application. You may wonder, how temperature extremities affect rubber seals? Below you will find more information about rubber seals and their respective benefits. 

How Temperature Extremities Affect Rubber Seals?

Temperature can impact the longevity and function of a rubber seal. In fact, environmental factors can have a serious impact on the seals. This can ultimately impact your overall application. This is why it is critical to understand the environment of your application, including any potential temperature extremities. The rubber seal can be designed to meet the unique needs of the application. It can also be created to account for the temperatures surrounding the rubber seal and application. 

Rubber is created from a number of chemical bonds. This helps keep it flexible which is why it is a great material for seals. Each of the bonds in the rubber is a different length which can change the shape of the seal when force is applied. Certain temperatures and pressures can impact those chemical bonds, including heat and pressure. Heat and pressure can break the bonds which can impact the rubber seal. This can impact both the function and longevity of a rubber seal.

Effect of Temperature Extremities on Rubber Seals

Temperature extremities can impact rubber seals, in addition to impacting the overall function of your application. Consider the following effects of temperature extremities.

• Extreme Heat: Exposure to extreme heat includes temperatures over 300 degrees fahrenheit. Exposure to this amount of heat for an extended period of time can lead to serious issues with rubber sealants. High heat can result in hardening, shrinkage, and even dry out. When rubber hardens it can make it less flexible and much more prone to cracking. Shrinkage is also damaging as it can result in a reduction in the function and effectiveness of the seal. Lastly, extreme heat can dry out rubber which can lead to cracking and inflexibility.
• Extreme Cold: Exposure to extreme cold includes temperatures below 40 degrees fahrenheit. Exposure to this amount of cold for an extended period of time can lead to serious issues with rubber sealants. Extreme cold weather can also have an impact on rubber seals. Cold weather can cause rubber to become softer. This can compromise the function of the seal and lead to leaks. 
• Extreme Weather Fluctuations: Extreme weather fluctuations can have the same impacts as extreme heat and cold, but it can often be worse. The constant exposure to extremes can lead to leakage and full application failure. 

Choosing The Right Material

Exposure to extreme temperatures can affect the performance and lifespan of rubber seals. This is why it is critically important to consider the temperature range that the rubber seals will be exposed to. Failure to do this can cost you a lot of time, money, and even impact the credibility of your business depending on the severity of the issue. It is essential to consider the operating temperature range for every application you use the rubber seals in. This is why it’s important to work with a seal manufacturing company as they can guide you through the process. The team at Real Seal are skilled and experienced in seals from thermoplastic material. Contact their team today for any of your rubber sealant application needs!