Rubber-edged composite (REC) gaskets combine an elastomeric edge with a compressible base. REC gaskets retain higher sealing stress on their sealing edges than some "fixed compression" seals do. Select-a-Seal edge polymers can also provide adhesion within a joint. This unique pairing of stress retention and adhesion provides an unprecedented combination of seal durability and robustness. (392)

Two Engineered Materials Work Together to Achieve Superior Long-Term Sealing

1. Rubber Edge: Select-a-Seal REC allows the perfect match of elastomer to sealing medium. Whether your application involves air, fuel, coolant or lubricants, there's an elastomer that can seal it. Having tested hundreds of materials, we can help create a highly effective combination of compression and chemical resistance properties. Most seals act either as a compressive barrier or an adhesive barrier. Select-a-Seal combines the two, offering not only compressive sealing but providing as much adhesion as RTV silicone. The adhesive properties help maintain the seal even when the material relaxes over time. Unlike most adhesive compounds, however, Select-a-Seal peels easily off flanges, without chiseling or scraping.

2. Compressible Base: A compressible base actually overcomes stress relaxation in the rubber edge by transferring stored energy to the rubber to cause further compression in the rubber-edge seal. The result is the superior edge compression required for durable, long-term seals. The base is chosen for superior shear resistance, physical strength, and temperature resistance. The base's density and pore structure provide optimum conformability to flange surface finishes, flatness, and other irregularities in the finish. The resiliency of the material can also be selected to minimize vibration and noise. All Select-a-Seal materials are non-corrosive to metal surfaces and require minimum tooling costs to manufacture. The Flexible Choice for Any Application ISI engineers can recommend the materials and geometry necessary to achieve the optimum seal for your application. We consider not only temperature ranges and materials to be sealed, but also the best combination for the best control of compression over time. Even small changes in the mechanical properties and thickness of the base can dramatically influence the stress retained in the sealing edge. Likewise, we can help you find the optimum balance between adhesion, compression stress, and maximum hot and cold performance. Compared to metal-cored products, Select-a-Seal REC often allows relaxed tolerances on the surfaces to be sealed. The ability of the base to conform to the surfaces being sealed—coupled with the adhesion and long-term stress retention of the rubber seal—means you don't have to overspecify, or overpay.

Typical Applications Select-a-Seal provides long-term sealing performance for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) and Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) uses worldwide:

· Automotive and Heavy-Duty Powertrains · Compressors · General Industrial Applications · Medical Equipment · Pipe Fittings · Pumps and Meters · Small Engines