Also known as artificial or man-made fibers, synthetic fibers are engineered from chemical compounds to create fibers with specific properties. These may include enhanced durability, strength, elasticity, chemical resistance, and more. Binding these fibers with natural or man-made elastomers further adds to their durability and utility in gasket, sealing, and packing applications.

At Master Packing and Rubber Company (MPRC), we specialize in custom sealing materials for applications involving liquids, gases, or powders in many industries. We stock a comprehensive selection of sheet material, including compressed synthetic fibers and more, and can manufacture gaskets, seals, and other components to meet your requirements.

Learn more about synthetic fiber material options.

The Role of Elastomers in Compressed Synthetic Fiber Sheet

Elastomers are a group of naturally occurring and man-made polymers known for their ability to stretch and return to their original form without breaking or losing structural integrity. They also have properties including hardness, tear resistance, elongation at breaking point, and chemical and abrasion resistance.

Some common elastomers include EPDM, nitrile, Viton, silicone rubber, neoprene rubber, polyurethane, and butyl rubber.

When incorporated with synthetic fibers as binding agents, elastomers help keep fibers together as a homogeneous sheet, while enhancing pressure, chemical, and deformation resistance. These properties are important for gasket and sealing applications that involve high-pressure and high-temperature conditions.

Incorporating Man-Made Synthetic Fibers

Synthetic fibers do not occur naturally but are man-made from various chemical compounds that impart properties like durability, strength, elasticity, chemical resistance, and thermal resistance.

There are many types of synthetic fibers used in products for gaskets and seals. Depending on operating conditions, such as temperatures, exposure to chemicals, oxygen, weather, or high or fluctuating pressures, different fiber materials may be suitable. MPRC stocks many types of synthetic fiber sheet material for a range of applications.

For flat gasket applications, sheet material is manufactured with a hot calendar process that controls the thickness while being vulcanized across the surface of steam filled drums, producing sheet, normally 60” wide by up to 120” long, with some up to 180”. The result is a controlled thickness compressed sheet that meets the designed characteristics for sealing applications.

Types of Synthetic Fibers and Their Unique Properties

The following are some of the specific types of synthetic fibers and the properties associated with them.

Aramid Fibers

Aramid, or aromatic polyamide, is created by spinning a liquid chemical base to form long-chain synthetic polyamides. It is extremely strong and anti-abrasive. It can be used in medium-temperature settings. These fibers can be mixed with various elastomers for use in seals and gaskets due to their combined strength and temperature resistance. Aramid is often used by the military, aerospace, automotive, and marine industries.

Carbon Fibers

Carbon yarns/fibers are lightweight, extremely strong, and resistant to corrosion. Carbon fibers also have high thermal stability and can be used in both extremely high and low-temperature settings. A great filler fiber material for higher temperature resistance and added strength along with a nitrile binder.

Glass Fibers

Glass fibers are made from extremely fine strands of silica-based glass. They are extremely strong, flexible, and tough, and can be stretched and bent considerably without breaking. Thermal properties make glass fibers suitable for insulation as well as for structural applications, such as in fiberglass tapes and sheets. Due to their high tensile strength, glass fibers are able to retain their shape even in high-temperature environments.

Benefits of Using Synthetic Fiber Compressed Materials

Synthetic fiber compressed materials offer certain benefits, such as:

  • Increased Lifespan and Durability. Synthetic fibers can last for long periods under exposure to extreme pressure and temperatures without breaking down.
  • High Performance in High-Pressure and High-Temperature Applications. Synthetic fibers tend to maintain the same performance levels in extreme conditions.
  • Reduced Environmental Wear and Tear. This includes chemical and oxidation resistance, tear and abrasion resistance, and elasticity.
  • Cost-Effectiveness. Synthetic fibers’ resistance to wear and tear over long periods will minimize maintenance requirements and the need to replace components.

Take the Next Step With MPRC Seals’s Expertise in Synthetic Fibers

At MPRC Seals, you’ll find a selection of top-quality synthetic fiber compressed materials gaskets, sealing strips, and packing material. We carry a standard product line and provide custom manufacturing to meet your requirements as well. We are ISO 9001:2015 certified and dedicated to developing reliable sealing solutions for even the most hostile environments.

Learn more about us on our website or request a quote to get started.