Aerospace & Defence FAQs

Not sure about how to choose the right rubber material for use in the aerospace and defence industry? Making sure your material is suitable for use in your chosen industry is extremely important. This requires consideration into specific features and polymer types and the required certifications. In our latest blog, TRP Polymer Solutions answers some of your most frequently asked questions about common rubber materials.

How to choose the right rubber material

Choosing the right rubber material will depend on the requirements of an individual application. The aerospace and defence industries are extremely varied. Therefore, the material has to be hard-wearing, making the selection very specific.

Some of the things to consider when choosing the right rubber material for the aerospace and defence industry include:

  • Temperature range
  • Pressure range
  • Flame retardant
  • Resistance against oil and chemicals

What temperature can my rubber withstand? 

The temperature range that a rubber product can withstand depends on the material of choice. Of course, for aerospace and defence applications, the rubber must withstand a wide temperature range, meaning you must choose your rubber material with care. Below is a list of materials and their properties, that can work effectively in a wide temperature range:

  • Perfluoroelastomer (FFKM) is rapidly becoming the elastomer material of choice due to its ability to operate in wide temperature ranges, from -30°C to +330°C.
  • PTFE can also operate in a wide temperature range, from -30°C to +200°C. FFKM is more expensive than other material choices, however it is often used because it succeeds in applications where other materials have failed.
  • Fluorosilicone operates in a temperature range between -60°C to +200°C, making it the ideal material type for low temperature applications.

Are material certifications important?

When deciding on the appropriate material for use in aerospace and defence applications, it is vital that all materials have been certified. Having the correct material certification provides an added level of security when you are choosing a rubber product for a demanding application.

Features important for use in aerospace & defence applications?

The aerospace and defence industry is very demanding and therefore your material needs to be hard-wearing. It is important that your rubber material meets all the specifications, guaranteeing its safe use in the aerospace industry. Hardness and durability is another all-important feature that should be considered when choosing a rubber material.

Why choose TRP Polymer Solutions? 

TRP Polymer Solutions designs, develops and produces high-performance custom rubber components. Our precision rubber products are manufactured using the latest polymers and process technologies to develop optimal moulded rubber products. For more information regarding our rubber components for the aerospace and defence industry, or advice on products that relate to your business, contact us via our enquiry form, email us directly at sales@trp.co.uk or call us on +44 (0) 1432 268899 to speak to a member of our team.

Archives