Closed Cell Sponge Rubber and it's Applications

March 14th at 5:25pm

What is a Closed Cell Neoprene Sponge Rubber

Produced from 100% neoprene polymer, most closed cell neoprene sponge products meet UL 94HF-1 flame rating. They are generally serviceable from -40°F to 158°F continuous and withstand 200°F intermittently. Premium closed cell neoprene sponge products will resist light oil contact, ozone, alkalis and acids, making them a good choice for general enclosure door gaskets.

What is a Closed Cell Blended Sponge Rubber

Produced from a blend of neoprene, EPDM and SBR, these grades are the most frequently supplied for general purpose sponge gaskets. If a commercial closed cell neoprene sponge gasket is requested, this would likely be supplied. These products also normally meet UL 94HF-1 and will take -70°F without cracking due to cold embrittlement. The oil resistance will not be as good as on the 100% neoprene sponge products.

What is a Closed Cell EPDM Sponge Rubber

Closed cell EPDM sponge materials will not meet the UL flame rating without additives and they will not withstand oils or fuels. However, they will stand up to outdoor conditions such as water, ozone and indirect sunlight better than neoprene.

Which one of the two has better Compression Set Resistance – Closed, or Open Cell Sponge

Closed cell sponge rubber structure has non-interconnecting cells that contain air. Force applied to these cells causes the air to be gradually squeezed through the thin cell membranes. When the pressure is released, the cells attempt to return to the original shape, drawing air back into the individual cells. Some sponge materials rebound quickly and some rebound very slowly or take a permanent deformation. Materials such as closed cell silicone sponge are more resilient.

Open cell sponges have interconnecting cells, which allow air to pass through them quickly under pressure - and air is drawn back into open cell material faster when the pressure is removed. Open cell foams and sponges are known for fast rebound, and generally return to original thickness

Applications of Closed Cell Sponge

Closed cell sponge has a wide range of applications in a variety of industries. Phelps carries a wide variety of closed-cell sponge materials (including various densities of neoprene, silicone), to support our customers unique applications.

Automotive Industry

  • HVAC systems gaskets and seals
  • Carburetor Gaskets
  • Noise, Vibration & Harmonics Pads
  • Wiring Harness Gaskets
  • Lighting Gaskets (Interior and Exterior)
  • Antenna Gaskets
  • Vehicle Trunk & Door Sealers

White goods and Appliances

  • Washer/Dryer Seals
  • Air-Conditioning Seals and Gaskets
  • Refrigerator Seals
  • Humidifier Mounting Pads
  • Vacuum Cleaner Gaskets
  • Sound Equipment Padding
  • Baseboard Heaters
  • Stereo Speaker Vibration Pads
  • Dishwasher Gaskets
  • Lighting Equipment Gaskets (UL)
  • Electric Sign Gaskets UL)

Construction Industry

  • Metal Building Closure Seals
  • Concrete Curing Blankets
  • Electrical Box Seals
  • Receptacle Seals
  • Door and Window Seals
  • Weather Stripping Lighting Fixtures
  • Pipe Wrapping
  • Concrete Expansion Joint

HVAC, Electrical Enclosures & Control Panels, Lighting Industy

  • Air/Dust/Oil/Water Seals (UL recognized for NEMA applications, Fire/Security Systems)
  • Gaskets/Weather Strip
  • Ductwork: Weather strip, Air/Dust

Marine, Rail, Transportation Industry

  • Hatch Seals
  • Weather Strip
  • Conveyor Belt Cushions
  • Rail Car Repairs
  • Oil Seals



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