Polymer (Rubber and Plastic) Extrusions
Polymer and thermoplastic extrusions are used to create a seal between two surfaces to prevent the outside elements (air, rain, dust) from entering a building, vehicle, or product. Rubber and plastic extrusions can be used in a variety of market segments including automotive, agriculture, construction, commercial vehicle, power sports, HVAC, and many others.
Rubber and plastic extrusions can be produced in a wide range of shapes, sizes, materials, and properties, making them suitable for all markets. From stocked profiles to one-time custom orders, the process can be customized to meet your specific requirements of each situation and in both high-volume and low-volume runs. Be sure to check out our stocked profiles to save time and money on your project.
Our main polymer extrusion seals that Fairchild offers include:
Door seals: Door seals are made by using a combination of materials and attachment methods depending on the application.
Belt weatherstrips: Belt weatherstrips or waist belts/seals are used on the outside and inside of the vehicle to ensure proper window sealing. Typically the belt is extruded and molded or bent to fit the application.
Trim seals: Trim seals are typically made from an EPDM sponge and EPDM dense elastomer with metal or wire carrier reinforced to ensure a proper fit in application.
Edge trims: Edge trim are most commonly made from PVC but can be made in EPDM, neoprene, or other elastomers depending on application requirements.
Window Channels: polymer window channels are made using rubber and thermoplastics to achieve a proper seal against the window. These seals either have a flocking or slip-coating applied to them in order for the window to properly move up and down.
Hood seals: Hoses seals are made from similar materials to door seals and can be attached to the hood, engine, or cowl area to ensure proper sealing.
Trunk / Frunk Seals: Trunk and frunk seals are similar to on body door seals in materials and attachment methods used.
Window Seals: Window seals can either encapsulate an entire window or windshield or they will be used a portion of the window such as the top and sides. Commonly used materials include EPDM and PVC.
Materials can be used in the polymer extrusion process
A wide range of materials can be used in the polymer extrusion process which depend on the specific application requirements such as chemical resistance, temperature range, and mechanical properties. Here are some commonly used materials in polymer extrusion processes:
- EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
- Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPEs)
- Nitrile (Acrylonitrile-Butadiene)
- Neoprene, (Polychloroprene)
- SBR (Styrene-Butadiene-Rubber)
- Fluoroelastomers
- Silicone
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
To learn more about these materials and others, check out our rubber and plastic material guides.
There are several ways to adhere polymer extrusions to the surfaces, depending on the type of weatherstripping and the surrounding geometry. Here are some common methods for adhering polymer extrusions: adhesive tapes, sealants, and mechanical fasteners such as clips.
Additional value-added capabilities we offer for our polymer extrusions are slip-coating, flocking, cutting, notching, splicing, bonding molded corners, and more.
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