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:

• Aerospace
• Automotive
• Government & Military
• Medical
• Commercial Electronic

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:

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:

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:

Our FIP gaskets are compatible with plastic, plated, and metal substrates and comply with various industry standards and specifications, including:

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.