Discover why automotive sealing solutions are important and which option you should go for in this essential guide.
Nowadays, vehicles must consistently handle high engine temperatures and varying weather climates. The growing demand for extended warranties and reduced emissions places a lot of added stress on the sealing process in the manufacturing stage too.
Unlike plastic components, the manufacturing of rubber parts requires a tailored approach to cope with the aesthetic and functional needs, as well as adhering to regulatory requirements. If you fail to consider this, vehicles will not perform at an optimum level and will be more susceptible to the elements.
From O-Rings capable of withstanding high pressures to water/dust ingress seals. Learn everything you need to know about choosing the best automotive sealing solutions. You may think automotive sealing solutions belong around the windows and doors of your vehicle, but they are used in various areas inside and outside of the car.
Please note that some materials within retrospective applications can be used across other automotive sealing applications. Please get in-touch to find out more. Within this blog we will cover 5 key automotive sealing solution applications:
EPDM sponge (Closed Cell) &#; Available in a wide range of densities and properties, ensuring optical application performance. EPDM foam sealing is considered one off the best options for weatherstripping vehicle interior cabins and cockpits, due to its good sealing properties against air, dust and water migration. It is also has resistance to ageing, UV, ozone and oxidation.
Ramsay have the manufacturing capability to manufacture a wide range of custom EPDM sponge automotive sealing solution products. Key competencies in the production off:
Nitto foam (Semi Closed Cell) &#; Nitto foams provide the ultimate in automotive sealing solutions. Nitto , 686 and are EPDM based foams, that have a semi -closed cell structure. Providing a watertight seal between 50 &#; 80 % compression. Nitto Foams are used in a wide range of interior cabin applications. Predominantly for interior trims, these include dashboard, centre consoles, glove boxes, speakers and grills.
This material offers superior durability and weather resistance, it also has excellent chemical resistance to acids and alkali&#;s. Nitto foams offer the best in durability and weather resistance, it is o- zone resistant, fungus free and has an excellent ageing performance ensuring it provides high performance Sealing, NVH, Acoustic and Thermal solutions
Ramsay have the manufacturing capability to manufacture a wide range of custom nitto foam automotive sealing solution products. Key competencies in the production off:
Superseal foam (Open Cell) &#; Superseal foams are water-repellent with good water sealing properties. Superseal Foam offers excellent sealing properties, with low water absorption, low air permeability and low compression hardness.
However, the real advantage of superseal is that it offers excellent light weighting whilst providing a good seal when compressed at 80%, it is also more price competitive when compared to other high-performance sealing materials/product.
Ramsay have the manufacturing capability to manufacture a wide range of custom superseal foam automotive sealing solution products. Key competencies in the production off:
Polyethylene foam (Closed Cell) &#; Polyethylene foam is also known as PE and LPDE foam. It is cost effective and rigid, providing excellent HVAC seals under little compression. It is also used for a variety of other automotive sealing solutions. The key advantage of Polyethylene foam is its strength and how lightweight it is comparable to heavier chemically formed foams.
Polyethylene foam gaskets and sealing are mainly used for evaporator units and A/C heater controller modules.
The smooth surface offers excellent consistency, gauge control and low water absorption and vapour transmission. Materials in this range are extremely durable and have exceptional, Ozone, UV, chemical and weather resistant which provide Acoustic, NVH, Thermal and High-Performance sealing properties.
Ramsay have the manufacturing capability to manufacture a wide range of custom polyethylene foam automotive sealing solution products. Key competencies in the production off:
Polyurethane foam (Open cell) &#; Polyurethane foam is a low-density cost-effective open cell foam providing a variety of automotive sealing solutions. Providing vibration dampening and sealing against air, dust and water migration.
Polyurethane foam strips and gaskets can be found on many HVAC components. Including ducts, ducting, evaporator units, hoses, wiring harness and A/C heater controller module.
Depending on its thickness/density, Polyurethane foam is an excellent acoustic and thermal conductive material, due to its cell structure. It can also be supplied in a variety of specialist grades offering conductive, static dissipative and flame-retardant material solutions.
Ramsay have the manufacturing capability to manufacture a wide range of custom polyurethane foam automotive sealing solution products. Key competencies in the production off:
Neoprene blend (Closed Cell) &#; Neoprene EPDM Blend offers the best characteristics of both materials in terms of performance and price.
Blend offers oil and petro-chemical resistance as well as offering excellent weatherproofing due to its resistance to ageing, UV, ozone and oxidation. This material provides an excellent seal under compression as well as thermal conductivity and NVH solution
With these material properties, Neoprene EPDM blend can be used for sealing, NVH and anti-rattle. For fuel tanks, tank harnesses, hoses and piping.
Ramsay have the manufacturing capability to manufacture a wide range of custom neoprene blend sponge automotive sealing solution products. Key competencies in the production off:
Nitrile rubber (Closed Cell) &#; Nitrile rubber is a synthetic rubber copolymer of butadiene and acrylonitrile, often referred to as NBR. It&#;s highly resistant to oils and fuels, and can cope with extreme temperatures ranging from -20 ˚C to + 100˚C.
It can be attacked by UV/ozone, so it thrives within the car mechanics as O-rings, fuel tank gaskets and seals.
Ramsay have the manufacturing capability to manufacture a wide range of custom solid nitrile rubber automotive sealing solution products. Key competencies in the production off:
Silicone rubber/sponge (Closed Cell) &#; If you&#;re searching for a high temperature performance seal in the automotive industry, look no further. As an automotive seal, silicone offers strength, durability and brilliant resistance to heat (-60˚C to 230 ˚C). It also has outstanding weathering properties, UV and chemical resistance.
Dependant on grade, silicone rubber/sponge can provide an ingress protection of IP67. Ensuring high performance sealing for battery compartments.
Ramsay have the manufacturing capability to manufacture a wide range of custom solid/sponge silicone automotive sealing solution products. Key competencies in the production off:
You will get efficient and thoughtful service from I-ECO.
Polyamide foam (Closed Cell) &#; Polyamide NB foam is a high-performance closed cell, cross-linked nylon foam based on polyamide.
Its material properties ensure a flexibility of solutions. It provides excellent sealing, light weighting and has a significant temperature range &#; 70°C &#; +205°C for a number of high-performance battery applications. There is also a wide variety of density&#;s, between 30 &#; 100kg
Ramsay have the manufacturing capability to manufacture a wide range of custom polyamide foam automotive sealing solution products. Key competencies in the production off:
Kaiflex EPDM (Closed cell) &#; Kaiflex EPDM provides excellent insulation and sealing. Due to its soft closed cell structure and skin finish. It absorbs boot compartment sound effectively whilst offering an excellent NVH solution.
Kaiflex EPDM is also resistant to moisture ingress and chemical inflicted degradation ensuring good sealing properties. It also is exceptionally lightweight, self-extinguishing and has excellent acoustic characteristics.
Ramsay have the manufacturing capability to manufacture a wide range of custom Kaiflex EPDM automotive sealing solution products. Key competencies in the production off:
We&#;re one of the leading automotive sealing manufacturers in the UK. Supplying automotive OEMs and TIERS 1-3 worldwide for the past 25 years. Accredited with IATF and ISO quality standards. All of our materials are registered in accordance with IMDS and are ROSHH/REACH compliant.
All our high-performance products are manufactured at our site in Wolverhampton based in the West Midlands, utilising a wide-range of die-cutting equipment for medium to high volume adhesive gasket, tape and fabrication production.
To find out more, get in touch with our team today or download our automotive sealing guide.
Back to ArticlesCar seal strips are an important component of any vehicle, as they help prevent noise, dust, and other debris from entering the car cabin. In addition, they can also improve the overall safety and security of the vehicle. In this article, we&#;ll explore the importance of car seal strips and provide tips on choosing the right one.
If you are interested in our seal strip, please contact me for a free sample
Car seal strips are designed to reduce noise levels inside the car cabin, which can be particularly important for long journeys or for those driving in noisy environments. They can help reduce wind noise, road noise, and noise from other vehicles, resulting in a more comfortable and peaceful driving experience.
In addition to reducing noise, car seal strips also help prevent dust and other debris from entering the car cabin. This can be particularly important for those with allergies or respiratory issues, as well as for those who want to keep their car interior clean and tidy.
Car seal strips can also improve the safety and security of the vehicle. They can help prevent water from entering the car cabin during rain or floods, which can damage the car&#;s electrical components. In addition, they can also help prevent theft or break-ins by making it more difficult for intruders to access the car.
When choosing a car seal strip, there are a few key factors to consider. First, consider the material of the seal strip. The most common materials are rubber seal strips and silicone seal strips, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Rubber seal strips are more durable and affordable, while silicone seal strip is more resistant to temperature changes and chemical exposure.
Second, consider the size and shape of the seal strip. Make sure to choose a seal strip that fits the specific make and model of your car to ensure optimal performance.
Clean the surface: Use a clean cloth to wipe down the surface where the sealing strip will be installed. Make sure there is no dust, dirt, or debris that could interfere with the adhesion.
Measure and cut: Measure the length of the area where the sealing strip will be installed and cut the strip to the appropriate length.
Apply adhesive (if necessary): If the sealing strip does not come with adhesive backing, apply a small amount of adhesive to the strip. Follow the manufacturer&#;s instructions for the type of adhesive to use and how much to apply.
Install the sealing strip: Carefully align the sealing strip with the edge of the surface and press it firmly in place. Make sure the strip evenly and firmly adheres to the surface.
Test the seal: Close the door or window to test the seal. Ensure no gaps or leaks where air, water, or dust could enter the vehicle.
Trim any excess: If there is any excess sealing strip, carefully trim it with scissors or a utility knife.
Repeat as necessary: Repeat the process for other areas where sealing strips must be installed.
If you want to learn more, please visit our website Automotive Weatherstrips Manufacturer.