Rubber is a common material used in a wide variety of applications. It is highly versatile and works in industries from automotive and aerospace to consumer goods and the medical field. Rubber has several qualities that make it a top choice. It is durable, long-lasting, and performs well. As with every part of the manufacturing process, rubber seals require testing. Below you will find how to test rubber seal quality.

How to Test Rubber Seal Quality

Rubber is used in a variety of applications that require the very best when it comes to safety. Quality assurance is key to the performance, safety, and durability of rubber specialty seals. Testing rubber seals involves evaluating two critical factors. Consider the following properties that require testing to ensure optimal seal performance.

Chemical Properties: 

Testing the chemical properties is necessary to assess the resistance to chemicals, oils, and other solvents. It’s also necessary to assess the durability and longevity, including the rubber’s resistance to aging and degradation. These are critically important as rubber seals are exposed to various chemicals, in addition to environmental factors. Testing is necessary to ensure optimal seal performance.

Physical Properties: 

Testing the physical properties of rubber seals includes assessing the hardness, elongation, tensile strength, and tear resistance. Assessing the hardness is beneficial as it can determine how flexible the material is. Elongation includes the measures of how far a rubber material can be stretched before it breaks. This is similar to tensile strength and tear resistance as it pertains to how strong the rubber is, in addition to what the breaking point is. The strength and durability of rubber seals are necessary to ensure both safety and performance.

In addition to the chemical and physical properties, the dimensional properties are important as well. They should be tested to ensure that the rubber seal meets your unique application’s needs. This includes the thickness, width, and other measurements. Rubber seals need to meet certain specifications to ensure that they fit within your specific application. Working with skilled mechanical component manufacturers can ensure that each of your rubber seals is properly tested.

Common Testing Methods

There are several testing methods that can ensure the safety and reliability of rubber seals. Consider the following so you know what to ask when you search for the right rubber seal manufacturer.

Hardness Testing: 

This test is used to measure the hardness of rubber. This includes the resistance of penetration or indentation. This is a necessary test to conduct as the hardness of rubber impacts its flexibility, compression resistance, and performance. Issues with hardness can result in costly issues in the future. 

Compression Testing: 

Compression set testing tests the ability of rubber to get back to its original shape after compression. This is necessary as various applications have repeated compression and relaxation cycles. Rubber that can withstand these repeated cycles is necessary in several applications, including those with rubber seals and gaskets. Ensuring that your rubber seal can withstand the necessary compression can reduce the risk of issues in the future.

Weather Testing: 

Rubber seals are often in various weather conditions. Testing the rubber seal’s ability to withstand aging and weathering is necessary to assess its durability. While it is necessary to regularly maintain rubber seals, having seals that are resistant to degradation from the start is an important investment. It can save you time and money in the future as the breakdown of rubber seals is costly.

Real Seal Manufacturers

Real Seal offers the best in mechanical component and seal manufacturing. With more than two decades of experience, they have helped countless clients with their applications. Contact the team at Real Seal today for more information!

Choosing the right contract manufacturer is an important decision when taking on a project. This is because they can have a significant impact on the success of your project and business. There are several factors to consider when choosing a manufacturer. From flexibility and scalability to their credibility and portfolio, it’s critical to do your research. Below, you will find helpful tips on how to choose the right contract manufacturer. 

How to Choose the Right Contract Manufacturer

Choosing the right contract manufacturer can be overwhelming. However, it is possible to easily get it down without issue. There are several factors to consider as you navigate the process. Consider the following tips on how to choose the right manufacturer. 

Determine Your Non-Negotiables: 

Before you begin looking for a contract manufacturer, determine your non-negotiables. It’s important to clearly define your requirements and expectations before meeting with potential contractors. This includes factors such as the type of product, quality standards, volume, budget, and timeline. This can help you easily narrow down your options as you research potential manufacturers.

Do Your Research:

1. Use the requirements you outline above to research potential manufacturers.
2. Create a list of potential manufacturers that have the necessary skills and experience to help you with your project.
3. Consider online reviews, testimonials, and their portfolio to determine their track record and credibility within the field.
4. Narrow down your list of potential manufacturers to at least three to five that you are really interested in.

Talk With Potential Manufacturers: 

Set up meetings with the three to five manufacturers on your shortlist. It’s important to discuss their capabilities and facilities to see if they can meet your production needs. Factors including capacity, equipment, technology, compliance, and quality control are important to consider. This is a great time to see if they can meet your volume and timeline requirements as well. In addition, quality assurance is an important factor in manufacturing products. Ask about their compliance and quality assurance standards. Specifically, inquire about their certifications to ensure they are credible.

Consider Their Communication: 

Communication and collaboration are key components of any project. Use your experience during the initial meeting to determine the effectiveness of their communication. Working with mechanical component manufacturers that prioritize communication and are clear and direct is critical. This can absolutely make or break your entire experience. It is necessary to have open lines of communication and determine your direct point of contact during the manufacturing process.

Budget Considerations: 

One of the more important factors to consider when moving forward is their pricing. Cost is a critical factor when choosing a manufacturer, as you likely are on a budget in some capacity. Compare quotes from your top manufacturer choices to see which ones are within your budget. In addition to your budget, consider other factors that may be worth the money. For example, the manufacturer’s production quality, lead times, and overall value. Avoid moving forward with the least expensive option, as you may compromise other important factors. Quality is key in many cases, especially when manufacturing components and specialty seals.

Long-Term Plans: 

Choosing the right manufacturer is important, so you only have to do this once. The right manufacturer can result in a long-term partnership that can make your experience so much easier. A professional relationship that works for both you and the manufacturer can reap major benefits in the short and long term. Questions around flexibility and scalability should be addressed at this point to ensure you can rely on them in the future. Building strong professional relationships can save you a lot of time and money in the long run.

Rubber is a common and popular seal and custom mold material. It offers several benefits that make it a top choice, even among its competitors. Rubber seals and custom molds are used in a wide variety of applications, including automotive, aerospace, pharmaceutical, and more. Rubber is consistently used in so many applications due to its benefits. Below, you will find the top 6 advantages of rubber seals and custom molds.

6 Advantages of Rubber Seals and Custom Molds

Rubber seals and custom molds offer several benefits for a variety of applications. Consider the following if you are researching and choosing between various seals and molds.

1. Temperature Resistant: Rubber seals are temperature resistant and can withstand extreme temperatures. In fact, certain rubber seals maintain their strength and structure in temperatures as low as -100 degrees Celsius and up to 310 degrees Celsius. In extreme temperatures, rubber seals still maintain their flexibility and do not fracture. This temperature range is unparalleled as compared to alternative materials. For applications that involve extreme temperatures, rubber seals are the best option available.
2. Flexible Material: Rubber is moldable and flexible by nature. However, its ability to maintain its shape and structure in various environments is unlike any other material. The pliable nature of rubber makes it a great material for applications that require rotary oil seals, spring-installed seals, bearing isolators, and clearance seals. They can also come in various forms, such as rubber seals, which can be shaped into O rings, specialized U and V rings, and other specialty seals. The major benefit of rubber seals in terms of flexibility is that they are reliable and effective.
3. Versatile Material: Rubber is one of the most versatile materials for seals and custom molds. They have several different options to choose from depending on the specific application. The rubber options can range from soft to hard, and everything in between. They can also come in different colors. This can be beneficial to differentiate between various seals. It can also be for aesthetics depending on your unique needs. No matter what your application, there are rubber seal options that can meet the needs of your application.
4. Non-Toxic Option: Most rubber seals are non-toxic which is good for the environment and everyone’s health. Rubber is also beneficial as it maintains its integrity when in contact with other components. Not only does it maintain its structure when in contact with other pieces, but it also is highly resilient when exposed to heat, ethylene oxide, electron beams, stream autoclaving, and gamma radiation. Rubber is effective in withstanding rigorous changes and processes. This makes rubber seals a great option for applications such as food and pharmaceuticals. 
5. Highly Durable: Rubber is highly durable and is the top choice compared to alternative materials. It is impermeable and can block out water and air. This makes it highly beneficial for a variety of applications. In addition to its impermeability, rubber seals are also highly flexible which makes them a durable alternative to so many different types of materials. Rubber outperforms due to the fact that it is both durable, corrosion-resistant, and long-lasting even within intense and high-pressure environments.
6. Customizable: Rubber seals are easily customizable based on your unique application needs. They can be easily molded to work specifically the way you need them to. The team at Real Seal manufacture and distribute seal and mechanical component goods. They are skilled in performance oriented rubber and plastic materials, including thermoset materials. They can provide you with the necessary experience and expertise to create a rubber seal that meets your specific needs. Contact the team at Kanex Pro today for more information! 

Rubber is a versatile material that is a part of everyday life. From car tires and shoes to medical devices and sealants, rubber is a common material that has a major impact on the modern world. Despite being commonly used today, it has ancient origins from as early as 1600 BC all over South America. Below you will find the history of rubber and how it has become a modern staple.

History of Rubber

Indigenous cultures first discovered rubber from a tree. The Hevea brasiliensis tree is also known as the “rubber tree.” It is a species of rubberwood that is native to the Amazon region of South America. The tree has a milky latex substance that can be extracted from it. This is the primary source of naturally made rubber. Once this was discovered, various indigenous civilizations started using the material for various purposes. It was commonly used for waterproofing their dwellings and making shoes.

As with many discoveries, explorers from all over the globe brought rubber from South America to other places. This included Europe, Asia, and North America. In the 19th century, a significant advancement in rubber occurred. The process of vulcanization made rubber stronger, more durable, and improved its elasticity. This process is made possible when rubber is heated with sulfur. This process transformed rubber and made it suitable for a wide variety of applications. In fact, the vulcanization process catapulted rubber into the modern world as it coincided with the Industrial Revolution.

Modern Applications of Rubber

While vulcanization made rubber an indispensable part of life, the demand was too great. Natural rubber could not meet the modern demands as it was much greater than during the 18th and 19th centuries. Due to the rubber shortage, synthetic rubber alternatives were necessary. Scientists began working on producing a synthetic rubber that could meet the demands. This was beneficial as it reduced the impact on tropical forests in South America and provided a reliable supply. To this day, synthetic rubber is used in a wide variety of applications.

There are many rubber products that you likely are aware of. From automotive parts and construction materials to medical devices and specialty seals, rubber is something you likely interact with on a daily basis. However, there are some unique products rubber is in that you may not be aware of. Wetsuits, sticky notes, surgical masks, ear plugs, tennis balls, and carpet backing. The possibilities are endless when it comes to the use of rubber in one’s everyday life.

Versatility of Rubber

Rubber can be combined with other materials to create composite materials for various applications. 

Rubber and Polyurethane: Rubber and polyurethane are often combined. They offer durability, flexibility, and are resistant to abrasion. Rubber polyurethane is often used in industrial wheels, rollers, and specialty seals.

Rubber and Silicone: Silicone rubber is a highly versatile material as it is temperature resistant and can be used in a wide variety of environments. It is also highly flexible and has insulation properties that are beneficial for electrical applications. Rubber and silicone products are often used in medical devices and automotive seals.

Rubber and Nitrile: Nitrile rubber is oil and fuel resistant. This makes it a great option for applications exposed to petroleum-based fluids. It is also resistant to abrasion and has excellent sealing properties. Because of these features, they are often used in automotive seals, gaskets, and oil-resistant hoses.

Rubber and Neoprene: Neoprene rubber is a highly versatile material as it is resistant to oil, weather, and various chemicals. It can also effectively withstand a high temperature range. Neoprene rubber is often used in automotive seals, industrial hoses, and gaskets.

Thermoset plastics and thermoset rubbers are both common materials used in several everyday materials. In addition, they are also used in a number of different industries. Both thermoset plastics and thermoset rubbers are essential materials in polymers and elastomers. While they are used in the same field, they have unique differences. Below you will find helpful information comparing thermoplastic elastomers and thermoset rubber.

Comparing Thermoplastic Elastomers and Thermoset Rubber

To fully understand the difference between thermoplastic elastomers and thermoset rubber, it’s critical to understand what they are.

Thermoset Elastomers: 

Thermoset elastomers are made from a mixture of polymers. This is often a thermoplastic matrix mixed with rubber-like particles. They are a class of materials that have both thermoplastic and elastomeric properties. The combination of materials used to create them makes them highly versatile and a top choice in many applications. In fact, they are able to withstand various temperatures. They can be hardened with cool temperatures and softened with warm temperatures over and over again. Common applications include the automotive industry, consumer goods, and medical devices.

Thermoset Rubber: 

Unlike thermoset elastomers, thermoset rubber is not resistant to temperatures in the same way. In fact, thermoset rubber is hardened in cool temperatures and cured in warm temperatures. The chemical change that occurs with different temperatures is irreversible. Because of this, thermoset rubber is highly durable and strong. Common applications include tires and auto components, electrical insulation, and other industrial applications.

Notable Differences Between Thermoset Elastomers and Thermoset Rubber

While thermoset elastomers and thermoset rubber are both essential materials in the field of polymers and elastomers, their properties are uniquely different in several ways. Consider the following if you are selecting one of the two options.

Processing Methods: 

The methods used for processing both of the materials are vastly different. Thermoplastic elastomers are processed using methods such as injection molding and blow molding. However, thermoset rubber is usually processed through compression or transfer molding.

Unique Properties: 

Thermoplastic elastomers are versatile and easy to process. This makes them a popular option in many applications. However, thermoset rubbers offer a number of advantages. Some include their strength, durability, temperature resistance, and ease of use. Both have unique properties, so it’s important to understand exactly what you need for your application. 

Price: 

Prices can vary depending on your location and who you purchase your materials from. However, thermoplastic elastomers are often lower in terms of production costs. This is another reason why they are more commonly used as compared to thermoset rubber.

Reversibility: 

As discussed, thermoplastic elastomers are highly versatile as they can be remelted and reshaped with ease. This allows them to be easily recycled as they can go through multiple processing cycles. This is unlike thermoset rubber, as it is irreversible.

Specialty Seals

Speciality seals are a part of various industries, including automotive, medical, aerospace, and industrial. These industries require materials that have just the right properties for the specific application. This is necessary to ensure that the seals are up to the challenge, as the environment is often challenging. An effective seal is critical no matter what issues the environment poses. This is why so many choose thermoplastic elastomers and thermoplastic rubber. Both play crucial roles in the production of speciality seals due to the unique and beneficial characteristics.

When choosing between thermoset elastomers and thermoset rubbers, the choice depends on the unique needs of your application. This includes the environmental conditions, durability requirements, resistance needs, and other factors. The team at Real Seal is skilled and experienced in sealant manufacturing and distribution. Avoid the wait and contact their team today for more information!

Thermoset plastics are a group of polymeric materials. They are widely used in a wide variety of industries due to their unique properties. Thermoset plastics are durable, versatile, and a highly remarkable material. What sets them apart from other materials is their ability to undergo permanent chemical changes. These changes result in strong and heat-resistant final products that are highly useful in a number of industries. Understanding thermoset plastics can provide value if you are in the aerospace, automotive, electrical, or construction industries. Below, you will find more information about the material and its respective benefits. 

Understanding Thermoset Plastics

Thermoset plastics undergo a unique process when they are manufactured. When exposed to heat during the manufacturing process, thermoset plastic materials undergo a cross-linking reaction. This reaction is irreversible and results in a three-dimensional network structure. This unique process results in a number of desirable qualities, including strength, stability, heat resistance, and chemical resistance. Thermoset plastics also offer electrical insulative properties, which are highly beneficial in a number of industries.

Thermoset materials are often used in industries and applications that have extreme conditions. This is because thermosets are unlike other plastics, as they cannot be remelted or reshaped after they are formed. Their resilience to high temperatures sets them apart from nearly every other thermoset plastic material.

Benefits of Thermoset Plastics

Thermoset plastics are used in a wide variety of industries due to their unique benefits. Consider the following if you are comparing materials for your application.

Chemical Resistance: 

One of the major benefits of thermoset plastics is their chemical resistance. They are resistant to a wide range of chemicals, which makes them suitable for a number of different environments. Certain applications can have extreme environments with highly corrosive substances. Choosing thermoset plastic specialty seals can ensure your operation runs smoothly.

Longevity: 

Thermoset plastics are highly durable and long-lasting. They can withstand a lot as they demonstrate resilience against wear and tear. This is beneficial for your applications as it can ensure optimal operations. The reliability of thermoset plastics is unlike any other material. It can also save you time and money as you do not have to constantly replace the materials. 

Heat Resistant: 

Thermoset plastics have a very high resistance to heat. Because of the unique nature of certain industries, this is highly beneficial. This is why thermoset plastic materials are used in the automotive and aerospace industries. Exposure to constant heat will not degrade thermoset plastics. This ensures that there are no heat-related complications in any of your applications.

Strength and Durability: 

The unique structure of thermoset plastics makes them a top choice in a number of applications. This is because they have a cross-linked structure that adds a level of rigidity and durability that is key to the success of industrial and engineering applications. These materials can withstand substantial stress and still maintain their structural integrity.

Structural Stability: 

In addition to their strength and durability, thermoset plastics can maintain their structure under high pressures and temperatures. Their exceptional stability ensures optimal performance. In applications where precision and consistency are necessary, thermoset plastic materials are a top choice.

Electrical Insulation: 

Thermoset plastics have great insulative properties. This is why thermoset plastics are great for applications that have electrical components. Their electrical resistance ensures the reliable and smooth performance of electrical applications. Due to the dangers associated with electrical conductivity, thermoset plastics are a great option.

Versatility: 

The various benefits of thermoset plastics make them a versatile choice. The materials meet high demands in a variety of applications, including the automotive, aerospace, construction, and industrial industries. For those determining which material to use for their applications, consider thermoset plastics for their versatility and benefits.

Fire can be extremely dangerous, especially if it is not well controlled. Whether it’s a wildfire or a campfire, it can be deadly and unpredictable. Despite the dangers of fire, it is a part of leisure activities, certain professions, and even in magic shows. It has also played a critical role in our history as it served as heating for homes, drove engines, and was a part of cooking. You may wonder, can fire melt everything? Below you will find information about the power of fire. 

Can fire melt everything?

Fire is a chemical reaction that involves the combination of both oxygen and fuel. Fires can reach temperatures of up to 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit. While it can’t melt everything, it can melt strong materials, including steel. This is impressive as steel has a melting point of 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit. However, there is a difference between burning versus melting points.

The Difference Between Burning and Melting

There are unique differences between burning and melting when it comes to the power of fire. Below you will find helpful information that outlines the differences.

Burning: Burning occurs when a substance combines with oxygen through a chemical reaction. The chemical reaction often produces heat, light, and sometimes gas. This process is often associated with combustible materials. This includes materials such as wood, paper, or flammable gases. 

When these materials come into contact with enough oxygen and heat, combustion occurs. Combustion involves the breakdown of the molecular structure of the materials. The energy released during this process is both heat and light, or more commonly referred to as flames.

Melting: Melting is a process that occurs when a solid material is exposed to enough heat. When exposed to a certain amount of heat, the material transitions from a solid to a liquid state. This occurs when the material reaches its melting point. A melting point is the temperature at which a molecular structure allows the material to lose its solid form. 

Common materials that you may have encountered include wax and plastic. They have a low melting point and can turn from a solid to a liquid quite fast. Each material has its own unique melting point as steel has a much higher melting point than wax. Unlike burning. Melting does not undergo combustion so you won’t see any flames.

Materials With Low Melting Points

Fire cannot melt everything and there are some substances that are particularly resistant to fire and heat. Below are some of the materials that fire cannot impact.

Diamonds: Fire cannot meld diamonds. It not only has a high melting point, more than 6,300 degrees Fahrenheit, but it also has strong covalent bonds. These bonds make diamonds resistant to heat.

Some Types of Glass: Ordinary glass can melt when exposed to heat. However, there are certain specialized types of glass that can resist melting at very high temperatures. The glass generally has refractory materials in it that are heat resistant.

Refractory Bricks: These bricks are specifically designed to resist high temperatures. They are often used in kilns, industrial furnaces, and other high-heat environments that require the material to have a high melting point. 

Heat Resistance and Specialty Seals

There are a number of industries that require seals to be resistant to high heat. For unique applications that have intense elemental pressure, specialty seals are necessary. The seals can be customized to meet your unique needs. Engineered thermoplastic mechanical components can ensure your project needs are met and resistant to high heat and other elements. The team at Real Seal offers customized options that can withstand environmental pressures. Contact their team today for more information!