Rubber profile shapes often look like letters. Find the U, J, C, D, P, E, and I shapes you need plus rectangular rubber profiles.
Elasto Proxy supplies rubber profiles with different cross-sectional shapes. The compound, or type of rubber, for a profile is important because it determines material properties. The durometer, or hardness, is critical because of its relationship to compression. But why does the shape of the profile matter? That’s what this article explains.
U-Shaped Profiles
U-shaped rubber profiles (U-sections, U-seals) have a channel that can hold a metal bar, edge, or other substate. These rubber profiles used for edge protection and to eliminate vibration and movement. Typically, the channel in a U-shaped profile is either squared off or rounded. Dimensional specifications include groove width, groove depth, overall width, and overall height.
J-Shaped Profiles
J-shaped rubber profiles (J-sections, J-seals) are pressed into place to create a secure seal between two surfaces. Some products have lips or flanges. Applications for a J-shapes include gaskets for doors, windows, and hatches. J-sections and J-seals are also used with the bottoms of metal gates in water treatment facilities.
C-Shaped Profiles
C-shaped rubber profiles (C-sections, C- seals) are used to protect and cover exposed metal edges. They’re also used for sealing, weather stripping, and vibration dampening. To help hold a C-channel seal in place, some products have lips or serrated edges. C-shaped rubber profiles can also provide insulating barriers to protect wires and cables from damage.
Rectangular Profiles with Multiple Openings
Rectangular rubber profiles with multiple openings have a rectangular cross-section and two cavities or channels. They are often used for two sealing two separate surfaces, or to accommodate two smaller substrates. Applications for these rubber profiles include cabinets, compartments, machine enclosures, and HVAC systems.
D-Shaped Profiles
D-shaped rubber profiles (D-sections, D-seals) have a half-moon bulb and a flat bottom. The bulb seals under compression and the flat part attaches with an adhesive backing. D-shapes are great for sealing the gap between a long piece of sheet metal and another surface. They can withstand greater compression in areas where the gap between mating surfaces is narrower.
P-Shaped Profiles
P-shaped rubber profiles (P-sections, P-seals) have a rounded bulb and a flat stem. The bulb provides sealing under compression. The stem or tail attaches to a substrate. With P-seals, the tail is laid atop a flat piece of metal. An installer then rivets it into place or lays a piece a bar stock on top of the tail prior to fastening.
E-Shaped Profiles
E-shape profiles (E-sections, E-seals) have a half-moon bulb that supports compression and a flat, straight tail that an installer lays atop a substrate. The middle of the E-seal contains a gap or slot that can accommodate metal bar stock. The installer then rivets through the bar stock and the rubber tail into the substrate.
I-Shaped Profiles
I-shaped profiles (I-sections, I-beam seals) combine structural integrity with versatile sealing. They can be installed between two surfaces to prevent leaks or used for cushioning or padding. I-seals are also used as weather stripping and to protect wires, cables, and other electrical components from damage.
Choose Rubber Profiles in Any Shape from Elasto Proxy
Elasto Proxy keeps hundreds of rubber profiles in stock and can order specialized rubber extrusions if you need them. We can also help you with compound selection. Elasto Proxy uses water jet equipment to cut coils of rubber to size and can provide you with cut lengths or ready-to-install finished gaskets. For one-stop shopping and value-added services, contact us.
