A Complete Guide to Rubber Gasket Materials

Greencrest Digital on April 5, 2022

In our February blog post, we shared five common materials used to make gaskets, which included three types of rubber gasket materials: Silicone, Viton® and Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM). In this blog post, we will highlight these, and other rubber materials, their applications and their uses as a guide for choosing the right rubber gasket for your next job.

Rubber gasket materials vary in composition and functionality. When choosing a rubber gasket material, several factors need to be considered including temperature range, thickness, system pressure, application, industry and FDA grade to determine the right material for your intended gasket use. While rubber gasket materials may have similar temperature ranges and thicknesses, they are constructed for different applications and purposes.

This guide for rubber gasket materials is meant to highlight important material distinctions to help you make the most informed decision.

EPDM Rubber

EPDM rubber is typically used in hot water and steam conditions. It performs well when used with glycol-based brake fluids and is known for great resistance to ozone, aging and a range of weather conditions. EPDM rubber gaskets offer great resistance to heat, which is why these types of rubber gaskets are used for caustic service and mild acids.

  • Temperature Range: -50° F – +300° F
  • Thickness: 1/16” to ¼”
  • P Max (psi): 150
  • Applications: Water, steam, animal/vegetable oils and oxygenated solvents. Excellent with acid.
  • Typical Industries: Aerospace, construction
  • FDA Approved Compounds: Yes

 Silicone Rubber

You could say that silicone rubber is built for planes, trains and automobiles. Silicone rubber is a versatile material that performs well in low and high temperatures. A silicone rubber gasket prevents oxygen from penetrating and will resist potential problems, like ozone, UV rays and inclement weather. Silicone rubber is used in FDA/food processes, high temperatures and where electrical resistance is needed.

  • Temperature Range: -75° F – +450° F
  • Thickness: 1/32” to ¼”
  • Maximum Pressure (P Max): 150 psi
  • Applications: High temperatures in air or water (excluding oil or steam)
  • Typical Industries: Aerospace, food and beverage and transportation
  • FDA Approved Compounds: Yes

Viton® Rubber

Viton® rubber has a broad range of chemical resistance making it ideal for most applications involving oils, fuels and acids. Viton® rubber boasts excellent resistance to oxidation, ozone and UV exposure. Viton® rubber’s fuel resistance means these gaskets can withstand high-temperature conditions and is widely used for its chemical compatibility.

  • Temperature Range: -20° F – +400° F
  • Thickness: 1/32” to ¼”
  • Maximum Pressure (P Max): 150 psi
  • Applications: Oil/aromatic fuels, mineral, animal and vegetable oils, solvents and hydraulic fluid; Excellent with petrol and lubricating oils, as well as solvents, caustics, acids, etc.
  • Typical Industries: Automotive, food processing and pharmaceutical
  • FDA Approved Compounds: Yes

 Neoprene® (Chloroprene) Rubber

Neoprene® is the most prominent synthetic rubber material. It performs well in low and high temperatures and is commonly used in water, refrigerants, some mineral oils and ammonia applications.

  • Temperature Range: -20° F – +225° F
  • Thickness: 1/32” to 2”
  • Maximum Pressure (P Max): 150 psi
  • Applications: Oil and gasoline, excellent weather resistance
  • Typical Industries: HVAC, automotive and electrical
  • FDA Approved Compounds: Yes

Nitrile (Buna-N, NBR, Acrylonitrile-butadiene) Rubber

Nitrile rubber is used in low and high temperature environments for petroleum-based fluids. This type of rubber is ideal for a majority of mineral oils, some fuels and petroleum-based oils and grease. It is important to note that Nitrile rubber does not match well with glycol-based brake fluid, phosphate-ester fluids and high aromatic content fuels.

  • Temperature Range: -25° F – +212° F
  • Thickness: 1/32” to 2”
  • Maximum Pressure (P Max): 150 psi
  • Applications: Oil/aromatic fuels, mineral, animal and vegetable oils, solvents and hydraulic fluid
  • Typical Industries: Military vehicles, mobile equipment, white FDA, general service and utility
  • FDA Approved Compounds: Yes

SBR (Styrene-Butadiene) Rubber

SBR rubber is the oldest synthetic rubber material and is durable and resilient. The most popular form of SBR rubber used to make gaskets is called “Red Rubber,” named for its reddish-brown color. SBR rubber performs well in low and high temperatures and is typically used in a range of wastewater and many other utility applications.

  • Temperature Range: -40° F – +180° F
  • Thickness: 1/32” to ¼”
  • Maximum Pressure (P Max): 150 psi
  • Applications: Air and hot and cold water; excellent abrasion and impact resistance, and resilience
  • Typical Industries: Interior plumbing and drainage systems
  • FDA Approved Compounds: Not typically used in food applications, however some specialized food-grade versions (white SBR) have been developed

There are many impactful characteristics and features to consider for your intended gasket purpose. When choosing a gasket material, the main objective is to pick one that will seal the deal. Let this blog post be your guide for making that decision.

To learn more about gasket materials, contact Expert Gasket & Seal today at (330) 468-0066.