Polymer (Rubber and Plastic) Extrusions

Fairchild’s expertise in providing cost-effective polymer extrusion solutions is why OEMs partner with us for the design, development, and distribution of rubber and plastic extrusions.

Extrusions are essential components in sealing systems that prevent the entry of outside elements such as air, rain, and dust into vehicles, buildings, and various products. They play a vital role across industries, including automotive, agriculture, construction, commercial vehicles, powersports, HVAC, and more. Our ability to customize polymer extrusions to suit specific requirements ensures that we can meet the unique needs of our customers in both high-volume and low-volume production runs.

Applications of Polymer Extrusions

1. Door Seals:
Door seals are made using a combination of materials and attachment methods to create a tight seal, preventing the ingress of external elements.

2. Belt Weatherstrips:
These are used on the interior and exterior of vehicles to ensure proper sealing of windows. Typically, they are extruded, molded, or bent to fit specific applications.

3. Trim Seals:
Trim seals are crafted from EPDM sponge and dense elastomer reinforced with metal or wire carriers to ensure a secure fit.

4. Edge Trims:
Often made from PVC or elastomers like EPDM and neoprene, edge trims protect and seal exposed edges in a wide range of applications.

5. Window Channels:
Manufactured using rubber and thermoplastics, window channels ensure a proper seal against the window. They are often coated with flocking or slip-coating for smooth window operation.

6. Hood Seals:
Designed for attachment to hoods, engines, or cowl areas, hood seals are made from materials similar to door seals to ensure effective sealing.

7. Trunk/Frunk Seals:
These seals, similar in material and attachment methods to body door seals, provide a barrier against water and dust in trunk or frunk areas.

8. Window Seals:
Window seals either encapsulate the entire window/windshield or seal specific portions such as the top and sides. Commonly used materials include EPDM and PVC.

Materials Used in Polymer Extrusions

  • EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer): Excellent for UV, ozone, and temperature resistance.
        –EPDM Sponge Rubber: Excellent resistance to weather, ozone, and UV—ideal for outdoor sealing applications.

  • Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPEs): A versatile choice for flexibility and durability.

  • Nitrile (Acrylonitrile-Butadiene): Resistant to oils and chemicals.

  • Neoprene (Polychloroprene): Ideal for environmental resistance.

  • SBR (Styrene-Butadiene Rubber): Offers good abrasion resistance.

  • Fluoroelastomers: Exceptional heat and chemical resistance.

  • Silicone: Highly durable under extreme temperature conditions.

  • PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Cost-effective and weather-resistant.

  • TPV (Thermoplastic Vulcanizate): Combines the processability of plastics with the flexibility of rubber.

  • ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): Strong, impact-resistant, and ideal for rigid components.

Fastening Techniques for Polymer Extrusions

The method of attaching polymer extrusions depends on the application and surrounding geometry. Common techniques include:

  1. Adhesive Tapes: Applied to seals for easy installation and secure bonding.
  2. Sealants: Provide a flexible and durable connection.
  3. Mechanical Fasteners: Clips, retainers, screws, or bolts securely hold the extrusion in place.

Fairchilds Capabilities

Fairchild offers additional capabilities to enhance our polymer extrusions, including:

These services ensure that your extrusions meet all functional and aesthetic requirements.

For more information about our polymer extrusion solutions, feel free to Request a Quote or use the search tools above to explore our stocked profiles and customized options.