While rubber may seem impenetrable due to how flexible it can be, it can definitely deteriorate under certain circumstances. This can cause major problems depending on what and where it breaks down. Rubber deterioration can happen due to a variety of factors, including heat, light, and other environmental factors. It most often impacts rubber seals and O-rings. Below you will find out the most common rubber seal deterioration causes and how you can prevent it.

Rubber Deterioration Defined

Elastomers are a natural or synthetic polymer that has elastic properties. Rubber is an example of an elastomer as rubber is stretchy. Due to the nature of the material, rubber can deteriorate over time. The most common causes of rubber deterioration include light, heat, and oxygen exposure. Things like rubber seals and O-rings are susceptible to deterioration due to the molecular changes these factors cause. They can significantly impact the mechanical properties, which results in a shorter lifespan of the rubber seal.

Rubber Seal Deterioration Causes

Light, heat, and oxygen exposure can cause physical and chemical changes to rubber seals. When exposed, the chain of molecules begins to break down. Light damage is referred to as UV degradation and can cause rubber to become hard, crack, char, and even fade in color. Heat has the effect of shortening the molecular chains which causes the material to stretch once cooled down. The continuous contraction and expansion lead to the same issues that light exposure causes. Oxygen attacks the double bonds in rubber chains, which leads to deterioration. While each of these issues causes damage to rubber seals, they can be prevented with the right preparation. 

Rubber Deterioration Prevention Tips

It’s important to note that before rubber is manufactured, an analysis is done to predict its response to conditions that cause both stress and strain. With that, you’ll still need to properly care for your rubber seals to ensure they last. Once you have them, they need to be stored in a cool, dry, dark, and oxygen-free space. These are the most optimal conditions to store your rubber seals. It’s best to buy specialty seals in bulk to ensure they are all in the same or similar condition.

If you have rubber seals that show signs of deterioration, there are ways you can get them back to life. If you follow the proper restoration techniques, you can get your rubber seals at least back to functioning properly. 

• First, clean the area around the rubber seal, including dirt, water, or any other debris. 
• Second, scrub off the excess grime or hardened debris to prevent any future deterioration. 
• Third, you’ll need to check what products will work for your specific type of rubber in terms of conditioner. 
• Once you’ve found the right type of conditioner, apply it to your rubber seal. 
• Lastly, buff off the damaged areas using a file and reapply the conditioner for optimal restoration.

Specialty Seal Manufacturers

Because rubber seals often are parts of machinery and other important products, it’s important to have a professional help in the case of deteriorated seals. While the restoration techniques above can help restore your rubber seals, consulting with specialty seal manufacturers can help. Real seal is a manufacturer and distributor of seal products and mechanical component goods. Established in 1970, the company has had decades of experience in the industry with excellent consumer satisfaction. They offer a wide variety of performance-oriented plastic and rubber solutions for sealing and mechanical applications. As one of the most technologically advanced companies in the industry, Real Seal maintains a fully equipped laboratory with a full-time chemist and technical staff. Contact Real Seal today with any questions you have related to your rubber sealing needs.