The type of rubber used in mold and gasket production directly determines a part's lifespan and performance. Knowing the differences between the three most common material groups matters for making the right choice:
- Natural Rubber (NR): Offers high elasticity and mechanical strength, preferred in applications requiring vibration damping. However, its resistance to oil and certain chemicals is limited.
- Butyl Rubber (IIR): Very low gas permeability makes it stand out in applications requiring air and gas sealing. Resistant to ozone and weather conditions.
- Fluorocarbon (Viton/FKM): Offers superior resistance to high heat, oil and chemicals; preferred in demanding automotive and hydraulic system conditions, though at a higher cost than the other two.
The right material choice should weigh operating temperature, the fluid/chemical it will contact, mechanical load and cost. At Verdi Plastik, material selection is evaluated by our engineering team according to the sector the product will serve.