Rubber Industry Glossary
Your comprehensive guide to rubber manufacturing terminology and technical concepts
C
Compression Molding
A manufacturing process where rubber compound is placed in an open heated mold cavity, then compressed under heat and pressure until the material cures.
Compression Set
The permanent deformation remaining in a rubber material after it has been compressed for a specific time and temperature, then released. A critical performance metric for sealing applications.
E
EPDM Rubber
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer rubber - a synthetic elastomer with excellent weather, ozone, and steam resistance. Ideal for outdoor and hot water applications.
Elastomer
A polymer with elastic properties, capable of returning to its original shape after deformation. Elastomers are the foundation of all rubber products and sealing solutions.
G
Gasket
Learn what a gasket is, how it works, and the different types used across industries. Complete gasket definition with real-world examples and FAQs.
Groove
Learn what an O-ring groove is, how it's designed, and why groove dimensions matter for hydraulic, pneumatic, and static sealing applications.
S
Shore Hardness
A measurement scale for the hardness of elastomers and plastics, indicating resistance to indentation. Commonly measured on Shore A scale for softer materials and Shore D for harder materials.
Silicone Rubber
A synthetic elastomer with a silicon-oxygen backbone, offering extreme temperature range, biocompatibility, and flexibility. Widely used in medical, food, and high-temperature applications.
V
Vulcanization
A chemical process that converts natural rubber or related polymers into more durable materials through the addition of sulfur or other cross-linking agents under heat and pressure.
Vulcanization
A chemical process that converts rubber into a more durable material by forming cross-links between polymer chains using heat and sulfur or other curing agents.