High Temperature Grades of Rubber  

Rubber materials are necessary for various industries, from automotive to aerospace and healthcare, where performance and durability are paramount. High-temperature rubber grades, such as silicone rubber (up to 200°C) and fluorocarbon rubber (up to 250°C), are designed to resist extreme heat and maintain their integrity under demanding conditions. Testing and selecting the right rubber temperature range ensures reliability in critical applications.

Let’s read the content to understand the properties, applications, and testing methods of high-temperature rubber grades.

Why Is Rubber Quality and Testing Important?   

Rubber quality plays a pivotal role in determining the performance and life span of components such as custom rubber extrusions and custom rubber gaskets. High-quality high-temperature rubber is mandatory for safety and efficiency in demanding environments like automotive engines or industrial machinery.

Read More- How Rubber Is Made for Industrial Uses?

What Are High-Temperature Rubber Grades?   

High-temperature rubber grades are specialized materials designed to perform reliably under extreme heat, maintaining durability and functionality.

1. Silicone Rubber  

• Temperature Range: Holds temperatures between -50°C to 200°C.
• Applications: Used in silicone rubber gaskets, silicone rubber strips, and silicone rubber sheets for sealing and insulation in high-heat environments.
• Advantages: Exceptional flexibility, biocompatibility, and resistance to UV and ozone.

2. Fluorocarbon Rubber (FKM)  

• Temperature Range: Operates effectively from -25°C to 250°C.
• Applications: Ideal for custom rubber gaskets and seals in automotive and aerospace industries.
• Advantages: Superior heat resistance and chemical stability.

3. EPDM Rubber  

• Temperature Range: Performs well between -40°C to 150°C.
• Applications: Commonly used in d-shaped rubber seals and outdoor applications.
• Advantages: Excellent weather resistance and durability.

Read More- What makes heat resistant silicone so popular?

How to Test High-Temperature Rubber Quality?   

Testing high-temperature rubber ensures it meets the required specifications for durability, flexibility, and heat resistance.

1. Thermal Stability Testing: Evaluate the material’s ability to maintain properties under prolonged heat exposure.
2. Compression Set Testing: Measures the rubber’s ability to return to its original shape after being compressed at high temperatures.
3. Tensile Strength Testing (ASTM D412): Determines how much stress the rubber can endure before breaking, essential for extruded rubber and custom rubber seals.
4. Hardness Testing (ASTM D2240): Assesses indentation resistance for materials like silicone rubber strips.

What are the Factors Influencing Rubber Quality?   

Several factors affect the performance of high-temperature rubber.

1. Material Composition: The type of rubber and its additives determine its heat resistance and durability.
2. Rubber Grades: Selecting the right rubber grades ensures compatibility with specific applications.
3. Manufacturing Process: Precision in molding and extrusion enhances reliability, especially for custom rubber product manufacturers.
4. Application-Specific Design: Products like electrically conductive silicone rubber tubing are customized for specialized uses.

How to Choose the Right High-Temperature Rubber for Your Application?

Selecting the right rubber involves evaluating the rubber temperature range and application requirements.

1. For Automotive Applications: Use high heat rubber like fluorocarbon rubber for engine seals and gaskets.
2. For Medical Applications: Opt for biocompatible silicone rubber gasket manufacturers and suppliers for safe and durable solutions.
3. For Industrial Machinery: Consider extruded rubber or custom rubber molded parts designed to handle mechanical stress and heat.

Read More- Why are High Temperature Gaskets Popular & What They Are Used For?

Elastostar Rubber Corporation- High-Temperature Rubber Solutions   

At Elastostar Rubber Corporation, we specialize in high-performance rubber products such as custom rubber extrusions and custom rubber seals. Our advanced manufacturing and testing facilities ensure materials like silicone rubber gaskets and P-shaped rubber seals meet ASTM and ISO standards for reliability under extreme conditions.

Recommended Reads   

• What Makes Heat-Resistant Silicone So Popular? 
• Top 5 Things About Gaskets Designs You Need to Know About 
• What is the Best Rubber Material for Gaskets? 

Conclusion   

High-temperature rubber grades are indispensable in applications requiring durability and performance under extreme heat. By choosing materials like silicone rubber or fluorocarbon rubber and employing rigorous testing methods, manufacturers can ensure reliability and safety in their products. Understanding the properties and applications of high-temperature rubbers allows industries to meet their operational demands with confidence.

FAQs

1. What is the best rubber for high temperatures?  

At Elastostar Rubber Corporation, we recommend silicone rubber and fluorocarbon rubber (FKM) for high-temperature applications. Silicone rubber can withstand temperatures up to 200°C, making it ideal for industries such as healthcare and industrial machinery. Fluorocarbon rubber performs even better at temperatures up to 250°C, perfect for automotive and aerospace applications.

2. What is the temperature limit for rubber?  

The temperature limit for rubber varies by type. For instance, EPDM rubber can handle up to 150°C, silicone rubber up to 200°C, and fluorocarbon rubber up to 250°C. The material selection depends on the application’s specific heat exposure needs.

3. What is the maximum temperature for EPDM rubber?  

EPDM rubber can tolerate a maximum temperature of 150°C. It is commonly used in outdoor applications and machinery that require excellent weather and heat resistance.

4. What rubber gasket is best for high temperatures?  

Silicone rubber gaskets are among the best choices for high-temperature applications due to their ability to hold up to 200°C while maintaining flexibility and durability. Fluorocarbon rubber gaskets are also ideal for extreme heat and chemical resistance, handling up to 250°C. Contact us today, if you’re looking for customized rubber gaskets.

5. Can rubber withstand 200 degrees?  

Yes, certain rubbers like silicone rubber can bear temperatures up to 200°C. It is commonly used in seals, gaskets, and tubing for applications requiring high thermal stability.

6. What is EPDM rubber used for?  

EPDM rubber is widely used in outdoor and industrial applications due to its excellent resistance to weather, UV rays, and moderate heat (up to 150°C). It is commonly found in automotive seals, roofing membranes, and industrial hoses.