Whether you’re looking for bespoke rubber washers in the UK or batch-produced washers that are universal to your business operations, Stephens Gaskets are your people. The biggest misconception about rubber washers is that there’s only one type. However, there are several rubbers available, each containing several properties that make them suitable for their purpose. Known in our field as acclaimed rubber washer suppliers, we’re here today to outline the main types.
Related: Bespoke Imperial Shim Washers For A Wide Range Of Uses
The Types of Rubber Washers
Being one of the most versatile materials used for shims and washers, rubber is excellent in its compatibility with many applications. It is used in industrial, aerospace, and manufacturing sectors, to name a few. Although, with various grades and types, it can become a minefield understanding which is best for your needs. See below for an insight into certain types of rubber and what their uses are:
Nitrile Rubber
Most commonly seen in rubber gloves, hoses, cable jackets, and car transmission belts, nitrile rubber is exceptional in washer production. It has a unique level of resistance to high temperatures, oils, water, acid, fats, gas, and chemicals. It is why so many rubber washer suppliers recommend this material to so many clients.
Its anti-corrosion properties are what make this material matchless in so many industries, especially hospitality and automotive. To put it into perspective, nitrile rubber can withstand temperatures ranging between -40 degrees and +120 degrees, depending on the grade used.
Neoprene
Neoprene is also unparalleled in its uses. This washer material is formed of synthetic rubber which is most commonly used in electrical insulation, laptop sleeves, and car fan belts. Not to mention, is highly water resistant, which is why the leisure industry also relies on this material so often, most often in wetsuits.
Neoprene, unlike synthetic rubber, doesn’t degrade as quickly, making it much superior in this area. When it comes to washer manufacturing, it’s fantastic within plumbing applications and those similar. As these areas require longevity and reliability, Neoprene is always the first choice. To conclude, it is also anti-flammable; making it an all-around fantastic material for washers.
Silicone
In the same breath, silicone rubber washers are renowned for their ability to prevent leaks, minimise vibrations in machinery and protect surfacing. Due to their robust and flexible structure, they provide a much tighter seal than other materials such as metal. Additionally, its durability makes this one of the most sought-after materials by shim washer suppliers and beyond.
They also have great temperature resistance, withstanding temperatures between -197 Fahrenheit and +500 Fahrenheit, again depending on the grade.
Providing Rubber Washers in the UK & Afar Since 1947
If you’re looking for the right rubber washer suppliers to direct you to the right material for your needs, we can help. We endeavour to guide and provide our customers with washers that do the job exactly right. We understand exactly which material is suited to what machine or application. Once we have the dimensions provided by you, we will produce them with flawless accuracy.
Contact the number one specialist shim washer manufacturer today for further information on 0121 544 5808.
If you found this blog useful, you may want to read a previous one: Stephens Gaskets: Shim Washer Suppliers That Go the Extra Mile