Selecting the correct rubber material is critical for the performance, durability, and safety of your product. Whether you’re manufacturing seals, gaskets, or custom rubber components, choosing the right elastomer affects everything—from temperature resistance to regulatory compliance.
What Is a Rubber Compound?
A rubber compound is a blend of elastomers and additives such as vulcanizing agents, fillers, and plasticizers. Through vulcanization (usually using sulfur), the rubber is cured into a stable, three-dimensional form—boosting its tensile strength and resilience for industrial use.
Key Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Rubber Material
- What is the application?
Is it for sealing, energy transmission, or fluid flow? - What temperature range will it face?
Understand if it needs to handle extremes or maintain flexibility over a wide range. - What physical properties are required?
Evaluate compression set, hardness, tensile strength, and elongation. - Are there any compliance needs?
Food and water contact applications often need FDA-grade materials. - Will it be exposed to chemicals?
Consider oil, acid, or base exposure while selecting the compound.
Popular Rubber Compounds & Their Properties
1. EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
- Temp: -40°F to +250°F
- Great for water, ozone, and sunlight
- Not suitable for hydrocarbons or oils
Use: Automotive systems, roofing, water appliances
2. Silicone Rubber
- Temp: -60°F to +450°F
- High heat resistance, FDA-compliant
- Poor abrasion resistance
Use: O-rings, HVAC, ovens, medical, aerospace
3. Viton® / Fluorocarbon
- Temp: -15°F to +450°F
- Resistant to oils, solvents, abrasion
- Not great at low temperatures
Use: Fuel seals, chemical plants, oil reservoirs
4. Nitrile Rubber (NBR)
- Temp: -40°F to +250°F
- Excellent oil and abrasion resistance
- Not ozone or flame resistant
Use: Automotive gaskets, fuel systems, hydraulic hoses
5. HNBR (Hydrogenated Nitrile)
- Temp: -40°F to +300°F
- Superior to NBR in temperature & chemical resistance
- Avoid chlorinated hydrocarbons
Use: Gearbox seals, automotive, fuel systems
6. Natural Rubber (NR)
- Temp: -50°F to +200°F
- High tensile strength, great tear resistance
- Not suitable for oils or ozone
Use: Dampeners, vibration mounts, insulators
7. ACM (Polyacrylate Rubber)
- Temp: -30°F to +300°F
- High heat and oil resistance
- Avoid alcohol, water, or chlorinated solvents
Use: Automotive transmissions, seals
8. Neoprene (CR)
- Temp: -40°F to +250°F
- Good for ozone, oils, and moderate heat
- Poor compatibility with esters or ketones
Use: Shock absorber seals, vibration pads, belts
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right rubber material is about understanding your product’s purpose, environment, and compliance needs. At Victory Rubber Products, we help you select the most cost-effective and performance-ready rubber compound for your application.
Need help choosing the right rubber compound?
Contact us for expert guidance or a free quote.