Neoprene is a common synthetic rubber material that’s popular across many industries because of its physical properties and resistance capabilities. Also known by its generic name, polychloroprene, manufacturers create this material by taking chloroprene and polymerizing it. It has wide-ranging applications, one of which is creating durable neoprene gaskets for industrial and mechanical tasks. Read on to learn more about neoprene’s properties, applications, and benefits, and how Fournier Rubber & Supply Co. can support your operations.

Properties of Neoprene Rubber Gasket Material

Neoprene imbues gaskets manufactured from the material with a range of desirable properties.

Elasticity

This synthetic rubber exhibits good flexibility, which makes it suitable for applications in which elasticity is important. Neoprene gaskets can withstand flexing and twisting, making them less likely to develop leaks or cracks over time. This characteristic makes neoprene an ideal gasket material for its ability to create a snug, fluid-tight seal and fill in any gaps.

Durable Strength

Neoprene is highly resilient and a lasting material option due to its tensile strength, which falls between 900 and 1,000 PSI based on the material’s formulation. It can withstand wear and potential degradation from:

  • Abrasion
  • Flexing or twisting
  • Chemical exposure
  • Oxidation
  • Environmental and weather conditions like water, rain, snow, UV rays, and ozone
  • Thermal fluctuations
  • Combustion and flame
  • Oil, grease, and petroleum products

Even with all its resistance capabilities, neoprene remains a cost-effective solution for sealing applications.

Applications of Neoprene Gaskets

Neoprene rubber gaskets are known for their effectiveness as a highly versatile sealing solution. With common uses in industrial settings ranging from aerospace to automotive, these gaskets not only prevent the entrance of dust and water but can also absorb shock and resist flame. The synthetic rubber’s exceptional weather resistance makes it an ideal choice for sealing applications in outdoor environments specifically.

It’s this versatility that allows users to find the optimal neoprene variety for virtually any sealing need, depending upon the necessary characteristics. For instance, closed-cell neoprene contains individual cells that are encapsulated, allowing them to keep air, moisture, and dirt out while absorbing and dampening vibration, sound, and shocks for insulation capabilities. Resistant to ozone and oil specifically, solid neoprene, also called homogeneous neoprene, is suitable for flange and automotive gasket applications. Diaphragm neoprene is reinforced with polyester, which allows it to resist petroleum- and oil-based compounds as well as high pressures.

General neoprene gasket applications include:

  • Pumps
  • Hydraulic systems
  • Doors
  • Windows

Benefits of Neoprene

Compared to both synthetic compounds and natural rubber latex, neoprene offers a superior array of advantages for gaskets made from the material.

Versatility

This synthetic rubber is a versatile material because it can withstand so many environmental conditions. It has good flexibility, and it can maintain its properties under varied conditions given its good chemical and thermal stability.  It also offers superior adhesion, bonding to metals as well as fabrics. Manufacturers can customize the material to suit a variety of gasket needs by altering its polymer structure.

Diverse Resistance Capabilities

Neoprene’s adhesive capabilities and solvent resistance make it an ideal material for manufacturing a wide range of standard and custom products, which is evident in the prevalence of solvent-borne, neoprene-based adhesives on the market. The material is resistant not only to water and solvents but also withstands exposure to dust, sand, snow, sunlight, ozone, oxidation, and other environmental elements. Neoprene’s ability to handle such a wide range of surroundings makes it an ideal choice for outdoor gasket applications.

Physical Strength and Durable Protection

Neoprene’s incredible toughness and high tensile strength make it a great all-purpose rubber even for rugged automotive or medical applications. Its unique physical and chemical characteristics and resistance features provide a superior level of protection and durability compared to regular rubber. Neoprene also gives its end products protection against oils, acids, alcohol, and other such oxidizing agents. It’s an ideal material for industrial applications in which products need to withstand harsh chemicals and acetonic solvents.

Color Options

Neoprene’s natural coloring is a cream hue, but it’s possible to create neoprene in a broad spectrum of colors to best match your preferred aesthetic.

High-Quality Neoprene Gaskets From Fournier Rubber

Neoprene gaskets are dependable solutions that create high-performance seals to keep process fluids in and contaminants out. Since 1933, Fournier Rubber & Supply Co. has developed into a leader in gasket fabrication and customized plastic and rubber products for the industrial sector. We make our gaskets from neoprene as well as an array of other rubber options, with varying designs, shapes, and sizes available to fit your unique application. 

Our team is here to help you find the ideal product for your needs. Request a quote today to learn more about our neoprene gaskets and other rubber solutions.