Posted by Jody Key on | Comments Off on Electronics Manufacturing Services: Tailoring Potting Processes to Meet Unique Customer Needs
Without proper sealing, many electronic applications and components cannot function properly, and are at risk of damage from EMI, moisture, dust, and impact. As today’s electronic devices and PCBs become ever smaller, creating gaskets to fit them reliably becomes more difficult. This is where form-in-place (FIP) gasketing processes have a clear advantage.
FIP gaskets are a versatile and effective way to fill unwanted gaps and enclose sensitive parts because the seal material is applied directly to the component in question. At H&S Manufacturing Co., we specialize in precision liquid dispensing for FIP gaskets in many different applications, including board-level electronics. Learn how this advanced sealing method can be integrated directly into the manufacturing process and some of the advantages of FIP technology for board-level electronics applications.
FIP Gaskets for Board-Level Applications
Form-in-Place (FIP) gaskets are used in many electronics applications and especially PCBs to create precision seals that block particles, moisture, and electromagnetic interference (EMI). Instead of pre-formed gaskets that are installed on a board, FIP gaskets are created by dispensing a bead of liquid material, such as silicone, directly onto the surface to be sealed. Once cured the gasket is securely attached and complete.
An important goal in FIP gasketing is reducing variability or error as the bead is applied. At H&S Manufacturing Co. we use three-axis CNC machines and collaborative robots (i.e., cobots) to dispense precise volumes of high-performance polymers with great accuracy directly onto PCBs and electronic components. This equipment can reliably apply beads as small as 0.030 in. x 0.030 in.
Meeting the Requirements of Modern Electronic Assemblies
Compared to other methods of producing gaskets and seals, FIP gaskets are very well suited to modern electronic products and devices. This method offers many advantages, including:
Cost-effectiveness. Because FIP gaskets are formed on the component to be sealed at the time of manufacturing there is no need to source, purchase, stock, or install multiple gaskets for each component.
Design flexibility. FIP gaskets can be made from a variety of polymers including silicone. Microfluidic dispensing technology allows for extremely small, thin, or intricate seals.
Durable seals. Fully cured FIP gaskets are permanent and effectively resist temperature extremes, vibration, and harsh environmental exposure for a long service life.
Enhanced manufacturing capabilities. Liquid dispensing with automated equipment is highly precise and fast compared to other methods.
Material efficiency. Liquid dispensing is a net-shape process, which means the material is in its final shape and location when applied, which virtually eliminates clean up or trimming. What’s more, the machine dispenses only as much material as each gasket requires, reducing waste.
Precision placement. CNC-controlled systems and cobot arms are programmed with exact movements to place the dispenser at the correct location and orientation to the part, so the material is deposited in exactly the right spot cycle after cycle.
Sensor integration. Polymer materials can be integrated with sensing technology to monitor things like operating temperatures, pressure, vibrations, and more.
Incorporating FIP Gasketing into Your Board-Level Application
When planning for FIP gaskets, there are several factors that influence the success of the final seal. Review the following, or seek advice from a trusted manufacturer like H&S, to optimize the manufacturability of the gasket.
Material selection. Silicone is a common choice because it is durable and resists chemicals, corrosion, and UV radiation, and adheres well. Other high-performance polymers or additives may be suitable for some applications.
Shear force required for proper adhesion.
Needed material compression level.
Gasket shape. This determines the complexity or simplicity of the dispensing path, including straight or curved lines and intersections. Consistent application and sealing effectiveness become more challenging when the gasket shape and path are complex.
Base material. Surface characteristics of the components being sealed and physical design features can affect dispensing efficiency and bonding. These can include the general suitability of the base material for bonding, smoothness or roughness of the base, and grooved or non-flat features.
Additional Considerations for Successful Implementation
A successful seal starts with reliable FIP gasket manufacturing and choosing an experienced partner for the job. H&S Manufacturing Co. has expertise with precision liquid dispensing processes and the automation equipment that drives it.
Our team provides professional guidance for material selection part and gasket design optimization, and other application-critical decisions. We can work with you to develop an FIP process that meets your requirements and streamlines the manufacturing process.
Learn More About FIP Gasket Manufacturing Solutions
FIP gaskets provide excellent protection against dust, water ingress, EMI, and other potentially damaging conditions and compounds. They are a key component in many electronics and board-level applications, and by fabricating them with robotic liquid dispensers, they can be produced rapidly without risking quality or performance.
Since 1968, H&S Manufacturing Co. has provided reliable manufacturing services, expert engineering support, and responsive customer service. We are ISO 9001:2015- and AS9100-certified, ITAR-registered, and comply with AS9146.
Posted by Jody Key on | Comments Off on FAQs on Form-in-Place (FIP) Gaskets for UAVs in Government and Defense
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have become key tools for not only the Department of Defense (DoD) but also for federal, state, and even local government agencies. This is because UAVs can be used for a variety of purposes, from military intelligence gathering to public safety tasks such as law enforcement surveillance, search and rescue operations, and disaster response.
Due to the critical role this equipment plays, they rely on high-quality seals for ingress protection and equipment durability. Form-in-place (FIP) gaskets provide strong, precise, and cost-effective seals for sensitive equipment. Learn more about the importance of FIP gaskets to military UAV manufacturers.
What Are FIP Gaskets and Why Are They Essential for UAVs?
Posted by Jody Key on | Comments Off on Navigating Tariffs: How H&S Manufacturing Helps You Save Profits and Stay Competitive
The Challenge: Tariffs Impacting US Companies
US companies are combating recent tariffs on products from Canada and Europe by shifting supply chains, leveraging trade agreement exemptions, negotiating with suppliers, and adjusting pricing. These tariffs, imposed in 2025, have raised costs for imported materials like steel, aluminum, and other products that are critical for U.S. companies. Many U.S. companies rely on importing their products and components from other countries that may be affected by the U.S. tariffs.
Now more than ever, companies need to be strategic in their purchasing practices to alleviate the impact of tariffs and avoid losing profits. While companies across the world are faced with these new challenges, monitoring the rapidly changing landscape will be crucial to maintaining smooth and profitable operations.
Shifting Supply Chains and Negotiating Suppliers
Many businesses are exploring alternative sourcing strategies to mitigate tariff costs. This can include adjusting pricing structures to maintain competitiveness. Some companies are leveraging trade agreement exemptions to reduce costs, while others are negotiating directly with suppliers to manage pricing increases.
These strategies reflect the broader challenges companies face in responding to a rapidly changing trade environment: balancing cost control, supply chain stability, and operational efficiency, all while ensuring that product quality and delivery schedules are not compromised.
Nearshoring and Reshoring Opportunities
Other companies are turning to nearshoring or reshoring by relocating production back to the US. These strategies help avoid costly tariffs while providing key operational benefits, including:
Shorter lead times
Improved supply chain stability
Proximity to manufacturers for easier communication
Streamlined logistics and reduced shipping costs
How H&S Manufacturing Can Help
As a US manufacturer with more than 50 years of manufacturing experience, we are uniquely positioned to help you tackle any project or product. By bringing production stateside, your business can bypass international tariffs entirely while gaining access to a trusted partner for assembly and manufacturing solutions. Along with avoiding high tariffs, you can also expect our dedicated team to make your transition as smooth and easy as possible.
In addition, you should see shorter lead times, improved supply chain stability, and closer proximity to manufacturers with the ability to communicate without the time difference in other countries.
Take Control of Your Supply Chain Today
Don’t let tariffs dictate your bottom line. Instead, get in touch with H&S Manufacturing to explore how reshoring or nearshoring your production can save money, simplify supply chains, and increase profitability. With a continuing legacy of 57 years in the field of manufacturing, we remain a valuable partner for OEMs seeking efficient and reliable assembly solutions.
Contact us today to discuss your sourcing needs, evaluate options for domestic production, and explore strategies to reduce costs while improving efficiency. Take the first step toward a more resilient, responsive supply chain with H&S Manufacturing as your trusted partner.
Posted by Jody Key on | Comments Off on How H&S Manufacturing Supports Ohio’s Defense Manufacturing
A strong defense industrial base (DIB) is crucial to providing the U.S. Department of Defense with the products, materials, and services necessary to maintain national security. Both private and public companies contract with the Department of Defense to create a broad supply network that reduces reliance on a single source or location. A regionally specialized DIB reduces disruptions, shortens supply lines, and minimizes transportation vulnerabilities. These regional suppliers often have specialized knowledge and expertise relevant to their geographic location, supporting innovation for specific defense technologies and capabilities.
H&S Manufacturing is a key regional supplier to Ohio, supporting government and defense contractors with a range of manufacturing services compliant with DoD regulations. Since 1968, our commitment to quality and prompt turnarounds has made us a standout defense industry supplier. Here, we’ll explore the role of regional parts suppliers in defense and how H&S Manufacturing’s capabilities contribute to mission-critical projects in Ohio.
The Critical Role of Regional Parts Suppliers in Defense
Regional defense industrial parts suppliers are the backbone of the defense supply chain and a vital part of the state economy. Proximity to local defense contractors improves collaboration and accelerates response times. When these companies establish ongoing contracts with the DoD, they create a strong local industrial ecosystem and help support the state economy.
As home to the National Air and Space Intelligence Center (NASIC) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and the Air Force Research Laboratory, Ohio has a strong defense industry presence. H&S Manufacturing holds a pivotal position in Ohio’s defense ecosystem, with government and military fabricating services directly aligned with the needs of Ohio-based contractors. With sheet metal fabrication capabilities in compliance with Mil-Spec standards and capabilities to handle Covered Defense Information (CDI), H&S is prepared to work closely with contractors to supply defense products and services that meet expectations for quality, performance, and budget.
Precision Components for Defense: H&S Manufacturing’s Capabilities
H&S Manufacturing’s high-quality, Mil-Spec-compliant metal fabrication services are ideal for outfitting the military with durable parts and products that offer consistent performance in challenging environments. Our capabilities include:
Sheet metal fabrication. With our custom sheet metal fabrication services, precision is key. We perform cutting, bending, grinding, welding, and more to produce prototypes to high-volume orders of virtually identical parts that comply with Mil-Spec standards.
Precision machining. Our ITAR-compliant facility is equipped with advanced CNC equipment producing tight tolerances (down to ±.001 in). We conduct services that include boring, milling, drilling, tapping, and more, creating custom repeatable parts to exacting specifications.
Laser cutting. Our advanced metal laser cutting services are compatible with a wide range of materials, making intricate cuts with precision and speed.
UAV Sealing. We have the expertise and experience with sealing and gasketing materials for UAV applications in a variety of industries. Our team can assist with material evaluation and selection, and provide a range of sealing and fastening solutions to protect both UAV equipment and its cargo.
Robotics. Our robotics manufacturing requires advanced precision engineering and fabrication techniques. We leverages every available resource to produce the most accurate and effective industrial automation parts for high-performance applications. Our robotics automation experts wield vast experience in a broad range of custom metal fabrication and CNC machining methods.
Meeting Stringent DoD Requirements
H&S Manufacturing is ISO 9001:2015-certified, AS9100D-registered, AS9146 compliant, and ITAR-compliant, committed to providing the highest quality products with the precision required to meet DoD specifications. We are capable of meeting various Mil-Spec standards and handling Covered Defense Information (CDI) compliant with DFARS Clause 252.204-7012, demonstrating our investment in cybersecurity and physical security.
Strategic Partners in the Defense Supply Chain
As a vital provider in Ohio’s defense supply chain, H&S offers more than just parts. Our experienced team develops long-term relationships with clients to gain an in-depth understanding of their requirements and restrictions. This approach allows us to build strategic partnerships in the defense supply chain to ensure overall quality and satisfaction.
Contact H&S Manufacturing for Your Defense Needs
H&S Manufacturing is proud to serve as a vital part of Ohio’s defense manufacturing supply chain. With custom capabilities and certifications to meet DoD requirements, H&S is prepared to meet your defense machining needs. Contact us today to learn more about our manufacturing capabilities, or request a quote.
Posted by Jody Key on | Comments Off on Why Dip Brazing Is Critical in Aerospace Manufacturing
The aerospace industry demands advanced processes and materials to produce lighter, stronger, and more reliable components. Every gram of weight matters, every connection must withstand extreme conditions, and every assembly must operate flawlessly in high-stake environments. Achieving these goals requires innovative joining methods along with precision manufacturing.
Dip brazing is one of the few processes that meet these demands for aluminum assemblies. It creates strong, lightweight, and hermetically sealed components that excel in aerospace applications, from avionics to satellites. Learn more about how specialized aluminum dip brazing services meet demanding aerospace requirements.
What Is Dip Brazing?
Dip brazing is a joining process used to bond metal components—most often aluminum—using a filler material with a lower melting point than the base metals. With the filler metal pre-applied, components are immersed in a molten salt bath. The heat melts the filler, which flows into the joints through capillary action and creates a continuous, high-strength bond without melting the base metal.
This method allows multiple joints to be brazed at once, even in complex assemblies with hidden or internal joints. Because the process heats the assembly evenly, it minimizes distortion, making it ideal for precision aerospace manufacturing.
The Benefits of Dip Brazing in Aerospace
Superior joint strength. The metallurgical bond formed during dip brazing often equals or exceeds the strength of the base metals, offering long-term durability under extreme loads.
Lightweight assemblies. Dip brazing is perfect for thin-walled aluminum components, reducing weight without compromising strength. This is essential for aerospace systems where every ounce counts.
Hermetic seals. The process creates leak-tight joints that protect against moisture, contaminants, and pressure loss. In avionics enclosures, heat exchangers, and other sensitive systems, a hermetic seal can mean the difference between mission success and failure.
Complex geometries. Dip brazing can join intricate designs and multiple parts simultaneously. Internal passages, hidden joints, and fine features are easily handled, making it a preferred method over welding for certain aerospace assemblies.
Aerospace Applications Using Dip Brazing
Avionics and defense electronics. Sensitive electronics in aerospace systems must be protected from heat, electromagnetic interference (EMI), and environmental exposure. Dip brazing produces lightweight heatsinks, chassis, and housings that provide both structural support and hermetic sealing, extending equipment life and improving reliability.
Satellite systems. Satellite systems have no margin for failure. Dip brazing enables the fabrication of lightweight structural components, waveguide assemblies, and thermal control devices such as heat pipes and radiators. The combination of low mass, high strength, and hermetic sealing ensures performance under the vacuum and temperature extremes of space.
Heat exchangers and cold plates. Managing thermal loads is critical in propulsion systems and onboard electronics. Dip brazing allows for the production of leak-proof heat exchangers with intricate internal fins, maximizing surface area for heat transfer. These assemblies maintain consistent operating temperatures, enhancing safety and efficiency.
Why Choose H&S Manufacturing for Your Dip Brazing Needs?
Since 1968, H&S Manufacturing has been a trusted partner for precision aerospace fabrication. Our aluminum dip brazing services are backed by ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100 certifications, ensuring every project meets the highest quality standards. We are ITAR-compliant and authorized to handle Covered Defense Information (CDI) as a secure and reliable partner for defense-related aerospace programs.
We provide more than just aerospace dip brazing. Our team manages the entire production process from component fabrication to final assembly and testing, so customers have a single-source solution. This integrated approach reduces lead times, streamlines communication, and provides complete accountability.
H&S Manufacturing combines technical expertise, modern equipment, and a commitment to integrity to deliver assemblies that meet exact aerospace specifications. Whether your project requires precision dip brazing for avionics, hermetically sealed aerospace components, or large-scale aluminum assemblies, we have the capabilities to meet your needs.
To learn how our aerospace brazing services can support your next project, contact us or request a quote today.
Posted by Jody Key on | Comments Off on FAQs About Defense & Government Robotic and Remote Operation Device Manufacturing
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have become key tools for not only the Department of Defense (DoD) but also for federal, state, and even local government agencies. This is because UAVs can be used for a variety of purposes, from military intelligence gathering to public safety tasks such as law enforcement surveillance, search and rescue operations, and disaster response.
Due to the critical role this equipment plays, they rely on high-quality seals for ingress protection and equipment durability. Form-in-place (FIP) gaskets provide strong, precise, and cost-effective seals for sensitive equipment. Learn more about the importance of FIP gaskets to military UAV manufacturers.
What Are FIP Gaskets and Why Are They Essential for UAVs?
Posted by Jody Key on | Comments Off on How H&S Manufacturing Delivers Precision Robotics Components
Robots are reshaping manufacturing floors and redefining what’s possible in terms of productivity, precision, and consistency. From welding car frames to assembling microchips, industrial robots have become essential to nearly every modern production line. However, while these machines may appear futuristic on the surface, their performance ultimately depends on something far more fundamental: the quality of their internal components.
Each robotic movement relies on precision-engineered parts that must operate flawlessly day in and day out. That’s where H&S Manufacturing steps in. With over five decades of experience and deep expertise in industrial automation and robotics, H&S delivers the machining, fabrication, and custom builds that keep the world’s most advanced manufacturing robots running smoothly.
Key Structural & Mechanical Robotic Components
Industrial robots are complex systems composed of interdependent mechanical, electrical, and control subsystems. Below are some of the key structural and mechanical components from H&S Manufacturing that bring these systems to life.
Robot Arm / Manipulator
This is the primary moving structure of the robot. It is often modeled after a human arm with multiple joints or axis points. For the arm to perform precise, repeatable tasks, its components, like links, joints, and bearing housings, have to be machineKey Structural & Mechanical Robotic Componentsd to exact specifications.
Even the slightest deviation in tolerances for these components can result in motion errors or misalignment. H&S Manufacturing delivers the tight tolerances required (up to +/- .001 inches) to ensure accuracy and smooth movement.
End Effectors
This is the robot’s “hand,” which is customized for specific tasks such as gripping, welding, or painting. Fabricating grippers, mounts, and interface tools demands both flexibility and precision. H&S supports this need through custom box builds and sheet metal fabrication tailored for each end use.
Drive Systems
These are the powerhouses behind robotic motion. Precise machining of gears, motor mounts, and shafts minimizes backlash and ensures smooth power transmission. H&S’s capabilities are ideally suited for fabricating these high-performance components that reduce wear and maximize efficiency.
Structural Elements / Bases
Every robot needs a solid foundation, as instability can compromise its operation. H&S fabricates structural bases, mounting plates, and protective enclosures that provide the alignment and vibration dampening necessary for optimal performance.
Other Components
Other critical parts H&S Manufacturing can provide include:
Controllers. These are the “brain” of the robot. H&S can provide custom box builds for controller enclosures.
Wiring & cabling. Both are vital for power and communication. These are supported by H&S’s custom cable management solutions.
Sensors. These offer feedback on positioning and environment. H&S is able to create precision mounts to ensure proper sensor alignment.
Sealing & gaskets. These are critical to protect internal electronics. H&S produces custom form-in-place gaskets for moisture, dust, and EMI protection.
Need high-quality components for your industrial robotic systems?
H&S Manufacturing’s reputation in the industrial robot industry is built on quality, precision, and adaptability. Here’s how we support industrial manufacturing robots at every level:
Custom manufacturing expertise for robotics. H&S delivers precision-manufactured components specifically designed for robotic systems. Since 1968, the company has maintained a standard of excellence across industries by partnering with leaders in industrial automation and robotics.
Precision machining. Operating an ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100-certified, AS9146 compliant, ITAR-compliant facility, H&S uses advanced CNC machining capabilities to craft complex robotic parts, including milling, boring, drilling, and tapping.
Sheet metal fabrication. From robot bases and enclosures to mounting plates and guarding panels, H&S fabricates critical sheet metal components using laser cutting and advanced welding techniques. Our work supports both function and form in robotic systems.
Value-added services. H&S enhances robotic component performance through heat treating, powder coating, plating, and complete mechanical assembly. These finishing touches improve durability and reduce lead times for integrators and OEMs alike.
Ready to Elevate Your Robotics? Contact Us
The components of industrial robots may be hidden beneath sleek exteriors, but their role is anything but minor. At H&S Manufacturing, we combine industry-leading machining and fabrication capabilities with a deep understanding of industrial robotics to deliver parts that power innovation at scale.
Posted by Jody Key on | Comments Off on Elevating Drone Performance: The Role of Precision Components
Drones have become indispensable tools in government, defense, and industrial operations. From inspecting bridges to supporting tactical missions and streamlining warehouse logistics, they now play a critical role across sectors. However, advanced drones require more than advanced electronics; they rely on precision-engineered components at every level.
H&S Manufacturing is at the forefront of this innovation, supplying reliable, high-performance drone components that enhance the capabilities of modern unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Why Precision Components Are Critical for Drone Performance
Optimized Flight Dynamics
Even minor imperfections in shape, balance, or alignment can disrupt a drone’s aerodynamics. Precision-engineered drone components help reduce vibration, improve stability, and maintain control to ensure smooth, responsive flight.
Durability in Demanding Environments
Drones often operate in harsh conditions, including vibration, temperature extremes, moisture, and corrosive environments. Precisely machined and fabricated drone components made from high-performance materials are essential to resist wear, prevent fatigue failures, and extend operational lifespan under continuous stress.
Reliable Data and Payload Integrity
Sensitive parts like LiDAR, thermal imagers, and cameras require secure, vibration-resistant mounting. High-precision drone components help to maintain proper alignment and vibration isolation, ensuring consistent data accuracy during flight—even in challenging, high-movement applications.
Safety and Mission Success
In critical operations, from government surveillance drones to industrial inspections, even one component failure can cause mission disruption or property damage. Reliable, precision-built parts help prevent failure points, ensuring safe, predictable operation in high-stakes environments where performance cannot be compromised.
Long-Term Cost-Effectiveness
While precision drone parts and components may cost more upfront, they deliver better lifecycle value. Durable, high-quality parts reduce repair frequency, lower maintenance needs, and prevent expensive mission failures, making them a smart long-term investment for demanding UAV applications.
Real-World Drone Applications: Transforming Government & Industry Operations
Drones are redefining operations across sectors by enabling faster, safer, and more detailed monitoring in areas that are hard to reach.
Government Sector Applications
Infrastructure Monitoring. Used to inspect bridges, pipelines, power lines, and dams to prevent structural failures and improve public safety.
Defense Operations. Used for surveillance, tactical support, and border security.
Public Safety. Deployed in search and rescue, wildfire response, and law enforcement surveillance.
Manufacturing and Industrial Applications
Drone Infrastructure Inspection. Used to examine machinery, factory floors, and production areas, especially in hazardous or hard-to-reach environments.
Drone for Warehouse Operations. Supports automated inventory tracking, reducing human error and improving logistics.
Quality Control. Helps identify product defects more efficiently through high-resolution imaging and repeatable inspections.
H&S Manufacturing: Your Trusted Drone Component Manufacturer & Supplier
High-performance drone systems require components that meet the strictest quality and precision standards. For over five decades, H&S Manufacturing has supported this need by delivering custom-manufactured parts built to exact specifications.
Founded in 1968, H&S has a long-standing reputation for quality and consistency. Our capabilities include:
We work with a wide range of materials essential to drone construction, including aluminum, stainless steel, copper, and plastics. Our advanced equipment allows us to maintain tolerancesas tight as ±.001 inches (±.0254 mm), supporting complex geometries and reliable performance.
H&S operates an ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100 certified facility that operates a robust FODprevention program that is AS9146 compliant. We are also ITAR-compliant and meet DFARS Clause 252.204-7012, ensuring full compliance with quality and cybersecurity requirements for defense-related applications.
Elevate Your UAV Project With H&S Manufacturing
The growing use of drones across government and industrial sectors calls for components that meet the highest standards of precision and reliability. H&S Manufacturing supports this need by supplying the custom-engineered parts behind today’s most advanced unmanned systems.
Contact us or request a quote to learn how our custom manufacturing capabilities can support your next drone project.
Posted by Jody Key on | Comments Off on Materials Used in FIP Gaskets
H&S Manufacturing Co. provides form-in-place (FIP) gaskets, an exceptional alternative to conventional molded or die-cut solid gaskets. FIP gaskets ensure 100% contact with substrates, creating a reliable seal that can shield against electromagnetic interference (EMI), dampen vibrations, and effectively block moisture and dust.
FIP gaskets can also minimize inventory needs, reduce lead times, and support precision placement of intricate gasket patterns in custom applications. This allows for more compact form factors, supporting miniaturization trends in electronics manufacturing. When dispensed, FIP liquid gaskets are opaque and typically thicker than other adhesives, curing into flexible or rigid solids. They are available in one- or two-component formulations, including:
Acrylated urethanes
Anaerobics
Polyurethanes
Silicones
The materials used in FIP liquid gaskets include rubber and advanced composites. These materials are gaining wide acceptance and starting to replace room temperature vulcanizing (RTV) sealants and traditional extruded, molded, and die-cut gaskets. FIP gaskets have a proven reputation for delivering high performance and cost-effectiveness across a wide range of manufacturing industries and commercial applications, including:
Here, you’ll learn more about the materials used in FIP gaskets and their common applications.
Conductive Materials for FIP Gaskets
Electrical conductivity is a primary consideration for many applications that utilize FIP gaskets. To enhance this property, FIP gaskets consist of a conductive material and a base material. The conductive material is mixed into the base material to form a paste. Commonly chosen conductive materials include:
Aluminum
Copper
Ferrite
Graphite
Nickel
Silver
The three main types of base materials are:
Silicone
Fluorosilicone
Synthetic rubber
Selecting the proper base and conductive materials for FIP gaskets can prove challenging, since each material has different properties. However, it is possible to rule out several options based on the following key considerations:
Budget. Using the project budget as the primary focus allows users to rule out silver for use as a conductive material. While the material offers high electrical conductivity, it is considerably more expensive than graphite and nickel.
Performance characteristics. Understand the key properties of each base material and what your application needs. For example, fluorosilicone demonstrates superior resistance to oil and fuel, while silicone is more resistant to high temperatures. Synthetic rubber is less expensive than the other materials but cannot withstand the elements, making it unsuitable for outdoor applications.
Material and Equipment Trends in FIP Gaskets
FIP liquid gasket manufacturers are developing materials designed to improve the performance and EMI blocking of electronics, such as:
Automotive: infotainment chassis shielding, radar, autonomous driving systems
Telecommunications antenna: radio, RRU, AAS, AAU
Data communications: high-speed connectors, optical transceivers
These conductive elastomer gaskets are compatible with metal, plated, and plastic substrates such as enclosures and packaged electronic assemblies. Some FIP gasket producers are offering specialty silicone gaskets with IP68 ratings and fluorosilicone gaskets approved for aerospace applications.
Recent advances in automated FIP gasket dispensing technology promise to reduce material waste and labor costs while speeding up the production process. Precision dispensing equipment can accurately place beads as small as 0.3 mm tall. Room temperature curing also eliminates the need for additional heat curing equipment, further minimizing production steps and saving costs.
Applications
FIP gaskets are typically utilized for high-performance applications where the following properties are necessary to provide lasting results:
Chemical resistance
High surface speeds
Low friction
Self-lubrication
Thermal conductivity
Thermal stability
Oxidation inhibitors are also integrated into some materials to extend their service life.
FIP Gaskets from H&S Manufacturing Co.
Since 1968, H&S Manufacturing Co. has provided custom manufacturing solutions with an unwavering commitment to quality and the highest standards of excellence that meet or exceed our customers’ expectations. Our high-quality form-in-place gaskets and dispensing equipment serve many different industrial and consumer products, such as racks, computer chassis, and testing equipment.
We use 3-axis CNC robots to dispense silicone-based EMI shielding gaskets for customers in these industries:
Communications
Electronics
Energy
Lighting
Medical
Military
Transportation
Our FIP gaskets are compatible with plastic, plated, and metal substrates and comply with various industry standards and specifications, including:
ANSI
AS9100
ASTM
ITAR
Mil-Spec
REACH
RoHS
At H&S Manufacturing, we can accommodate any size project, from prototypes to high-production volumes. Our experienced and dedicated staff take all the necessary steps to ensure quality results in product appearance, value, delivery, reliability, service, feedback, cost reduction, and innovation.
Contact us today to learn more about our form-in-place gasket products and services.
Posted by Jody Key on | Comments Off on Why FIP Liquid Gasketing Is Replacing Traditional Sealing Methods
Die-cut and molded gaskets have been the conventional sealing solution for many years, but they have several limitations that may make them unsuitable for certain applications. For example, traditional gaskets require manual assembly and are often labor-intensive to fabricate, often with costly dies or other tooling. They risk burdening inventory and offer limited customization for complex geometries or irregular surfaces. Variations in fit and compression can also lead to inconsistencies in EMI shielding and sealing.
As a result of these potential drawbacks, you may want to use form-in-place (FIP) gaskets instead. This more recent industrial sealing advancement allows manufacturers to dispense the gasket material in liquid form and cure it in place. Here, we’ll explore the benefits of using FIP vs. traditional gaskets for various applications.
How FIP Overcomes These Challenges
Compared to traditional gasketing, FIP liquid gasketing benefits industrial applications in several key ways:
Automated, precision application. One of the main benefits of FIP gaskets is their use of automated dispensing for application, which allows for more precision than traditional gasketing. Automation helps prevent human error while allowing for more repeatability and efficiency.
Compatibility with various substrates and designs. Another advantage of FIP gaskets is that they conform to nearly any size and shape, regardless of complexity. You can also dispense them easily on nearly any substrate, including plastics, metals, and plated materials.
Reduced assembly and labor requirements. Automated FIP gasket application also eliminates manual tasks, subsequently shortening the assembly process. As a result, operations benefit from reduced labor expenses and increased overall productivity.
Simplified supply chains and inventory. FIP gasketing reduces inventory needs through sole reliance on dispensing systems and raw materials, keeping physical inventory and supply chains simpler and more efficient to manage.
Cost & Efficiency Comparisons
Working with FIP gaskets also comes with the following operational efficiency and cost-saving benefits compared to traditional gaskets.
Reduced Tooling and Setup Expenses
Unlike traditional gaskets, FIP gasketing doesn’t require custom-fabricated molds or dies that could otherwise add more tooling costs. Instead, FIP gaskets rely on programmable dispenser systems that eliminate the need for additional tooling and setup costs.
Enhanced Scalability and Efficiency
Because they rely on manual processes, traditional gasketing systems can decrease the efficiency of production through various bottlenecks along the assembly line. FIP gasketing, on the other hand, maintains efficiency through automation, keeping production lines moving. In addition, the automation makes FIP gasketing more scalable based on changing production needs.
Lower Cost of Ownership
The superior quality you can get with FIP gaskets helps reduce the need for repairs and replacements due to leakage and other issues. These gaskets offer a better fit, which means more long-term reliability and durability than their traditional counterparts. Ultimately, this lowers the total cost of ownership.
Learn More About the Future of Sealing Technology
As the sealing technology evolution progresses, automated FIP gasketing is emerging as one of the most innovative solutions in the industry. This comparison of FIP vs. traditional gaskets reveals numerous areas where FIP gaskets outperform traditional ones, including reduced manual labor, increased customizability, more scalability, and enhanced efficiency.
At H&S Manufacturing, we have the resources and expertise to help optimize your industrial sealing operations with custom capabilities. Our custom form-in-place gasket solutions serve the automotive, aerospace, telecommunications, military, medical, and many other industries. In addition to custom form-in-place gasket dispensing, we offer precision machining, sheet metal fabrication, laser cutting, custom box builds, secondary and finishing services, and more.
Request a quote today to discuss your specific project needs with our team of experts.
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Robots are reshaping manufacturing floors and redefining what’s possible in terms of productivity, precision, and consistency. From welding car frames to assembling microchips, industrial robots have become essential to nearly every modern production line. However, while these machines may appear futuristic on the surface, their performance ultimately depends on something far more fundamental: the quality of their internal components.
