Rubber is a common material used in a wide variety of applications. It is highly versatile and works in industries from automotive and aerospace to consumer goods and the medical field. Rubber has several qualities that make it a top choice. It is durable, long-lasting, and performs well. As with every part of the manufacturing process, rubber seals require testing. Below you will find how to test rubber seal quality.

How to Test Rubber Seal Quality

Rubber is used in a variety of applications that require the very best when it comes to safety. Quality assurance is key to the performance, safety, and durability of rubber specialty seals. Testing rubber seals involves evaluating two critical factors. Consider the following properties that require testing to ensure optimal seal performance.

Chemical Properties: 

Testing the chemical properties is necessary to assess the resistance to chemicals, oils, and other solvents. It’s also necessary to assess the durability and longevity, including the rubber’s resistance to aging and degradation. These are critically important as rubber seals are exposed to various chemicals, in addition to environmental factors. Testing is necessary to ensure optimal seal performance.

Physical Properties: 

Testing the physical properties of rubber seals includes assessing the hardness, elongation, tensile strength, and tear resistance. Assessing the hardness is beneficial as it can determine how flexible the material is. Elongation includes the measures of how far a rubber material can be stretched before it breaks. This is similar to tensile strength and tear resistance as it pertains to how strong the rubber is, in addition to what the breaking point is. The strength and durability of rubber seals are necessary to ensure both safety and performance.

In addition to the chemical and physical properties, the dimensional properties are important as well. They should be tested to ensure that the rubber seal meets your unique application’s needs. This includes the thickness, width, and other measurements. Rubber seals need to meet certain specifications to ensure that they fit within your specific application. Working with skilled mechanical component manufacturers can ensure that each of your rubber seals is properly tested.

Common Testing Methods

There are several testing methods that can ensure the safety and reliability of rubber seals. Consider the following so you know what to ask when you search for the right rubber seal manufacturer.

Hardness Testing: 

This test is used to measure the hardness of rubber. This includes the resistance of penetration or indentation. This is a necessary test to conduct as the hardness of rubber impacts its flexibility, compression resistance, and performance. Issues with hardness can result in costly issues in the future. 

Compression Testing: 

Compression set testing tests the ability of rubber to get back to its original shape after compression. This is necessary as various applications have repeated compression and relaxation cycles. Rubber that can withstand these repeated cycles is necessary in several applications, including those with rubber seals and gaskets. Ensuring that your rubber seal can withstand the necessary compression can reduce the risk of issues in the future.

Weather Testing: 

Rubber seals are often in various weather conditions. Testing the rubber seal’s ability to withstand aging and weathering is necessary to assess its durability. While it is necessary to regularly maintain rubber seals, having seals that are resistant to degradation from the start is an important investment. It can save you time and money in the future as the breakdown of rubber seals is costly.

Real Seal Manufacturers

Real Seal offers the best in mechanical component and seal manufacturing. With more than two decades of experience, they have helped countless clients with their applications. Contact the team at Real Seal today for more information!