Elastomer extrusions are used to create a seal between two surfaces to prevent air and moisture from entering or escaping a building or vehicle. Extrusions are a manufacturing process used to produce a variety of rubber and plastic products, including hoses, seals, gaskets, and weatherstripping. The process involves shaping a raw elastomer material, such as rubber or silicone, into a specific cross-sectional profile using an extrusion machine. Here are the basic steps involved in elastomer extrusions:

• Material preparation: The first step in the extrusion process is to select the appropriate elastomer material for the specific application. The raw material may be in the form of pellets, granules, or sheets, and may require pre-treatment, such as mixing or blending, to achieve the desired properties.
• Extrusion machine setup: The elastomer material is then fed into an extrusion machine, which consists of a barrel, a screw, and a die. The machine is set up according to the specific requirements of the extruded product, such as temperature, pressure, and speed.
• Extrusion: The elastomer material is then forced through the screw and the die, which shape it into the desired cross-sectional profile. The extruded material may be cooled or heated, depending on the specific requirements of the material and the product.
• Cutting and finishing: The extruded material is then cut to the desired length and finished according to the specific requirements of the product. This may involve trimming, punching, or other secondary operations.
• Quality control: The finished extruded product is then inspected and tested for quality and performance, such as dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and mechanical properties.

Elastomer extrusions can produce products with a wide range of shapes, sizes, and properties, making them suitable for a variety of industrial and commercial applications. The process can be customized to meet the specific requirements of each product and can be used to produce both high-volume and low-volume runs.

A wide range of elastomer materials can be used in extrusion processes which depends on the specific application requirements such as chemical resistance, temperature range, and mechanical properties. Here are some commonly used materials in extrusion processes:

• EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer): EPDM is a synthetic rubber that has excellent weather and ozone resistance. It is commonly used in automotive applications for weatherstripping, seals, and gaskets.
• NBR (Nitrile Butadiene Rubber): NBR is a synthetic rubber that is highly resistant to oils and fuels, making it an ideal choice for automotive and industrial hoses, seals, and gaskets.
• Silicone Rubber: Silicone rubber is a synthetic rubber that is highly resistant to high and low temperatures, making it suitable for various applications such as oven seals, gaskets, and hoses.
• Viton: Viton is a high-performance fluoroelastomer that has excellent chemical resistance and high-temperature performance. It is commonly used in industrial applications such as chemical processing, oil and gas, and aerospace.
• Natural Rubber: Natural rubber is a renewable resource that is highly elastic and durable. It is commonly used in applications that require high elasticity such as seals, gaskets, and hoses.
• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): PVC is a rigid plastic that is widely used for extrusion applications such as window frames, pipes, and electrical conduit. It is known for its excellent chemical resistance and durability.
• HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene): HDPE is a strong and durable plastic that is commonly used for extrusion applications such as pipes, tubing, and profiles. It is resistant to chemicals and UV radiation, making it suitable for outdoor applications.
• LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene): LDPE is a soft and flexible plastic that is commonly used for extrusion applications such as plastic bags, tubing, and seals. It has good impact resistance and is easy to process.
• ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): ABS is a tough and rigid plastic that is widely used for extrusion applications such as automotive parts, pipes, and sheeting. It is known for its excellent impact resistance and high-temperature performance.
• Polypropylene: Polypropylene is a tough and rigid plastic that is commonly used for extrusion applications such as packaging, tubes, and profiles. It is known for its resistance to chemicals and heat, as well as its low cost.

These are just a few examples of the many elastomer materials that can be used in extrusion processes. The choice of material will depend on the specific requirements of the application and the performance properties needed for the finished product.

There are several ways to adhere extrusions to the surfaces, depending on the type of weatherstripping and the surface materials. Here are some common methods for adhering extrusions:

• Adhesive tapes: One of the easiest and most common methods to adhere weatherstripping is to use adhesive tapes. These tapes are available in various sizes, shapes, and adhesion strengths. Most common are acrylic and pressure sensitive tapes. These double-sided tapes are used for adhering weatherstripping to smooth surfaces such as metal and glass, while foam tapes are used for uneven surfaces such as wood and concrete.
• Adhesive sealants: Adhesive sealants such as silicone, polyurethane, and epoxy are used to provide a permanent bond between the weatherstripping and the surface. These sealants are applied using a caulking gun and are commonly used for heavy-duty applications such as door frames, windows, and automotive weatherstrips.
• Mechanical fasteners: Mechanical fasteners such as screws, nails, and staples can be used to secure extrusions to surfaces. These fasteners are commonly used in combination with adhesive tapes or sealants to provide additional strength and support.
• Clips and channels: Clips and channels are used to hold weatherstripping in place in applications such as automotive extrusions. The weatherstrip is inserted into the channel or clip and then secured to the surface using adhesive or mechanical fasteners.

The choice of adhering method will depend on the specific requirements of the application, the type of weatherstripping used, and the surface materials. It is important to ensure that the weatherstripping is properly adhered to the surface to provide a durable and effective seal.

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