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Dobson Gaskets is a leading UK manufacturer of gaskets and sealing products

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+44 (0) 1535 607257
 

Address

E Dobson and Co [Gaskets] Ltd
Unit 1
Holme Mill Ind Estate
Fell Lane
Keighley
West Yorkshire
BD22 6BN

Call Us Now

+44 (0) 1535 607257

Call Us Now

+44 (0) 1535 607257
 

Opening times

Mon - Thur 8.00 - 17.00
Fri 8.00 - 16.00

Neoprene Main Box Quick Guide

 Neoprene Rubber Gaskets

Neoprene (CR) occupies a useful position between natural rubber and more specialised elastomers. Rather than being optimised for a single property, it offers a balanced combination of environmental durability, mechanical strength and moderate chemical resistance, making it a reliable choice for a wide range of industrial sealing applications.

Its resistance to ozone, UV radiation and moisture means neoprene retains its physical properties in environments where natural rubber would deteriorate. As a result, it is widely used in outdoor equipment, marine systems, HVAC installations and industrial machinery exposed to changing weather conditions.

Commercial-Grade Neoprene Gaskets

Commercial-Grade Neoprene Gaskets

A cost-effective sealing solution covering a wide range of applications across different industries, including HVAC, automotive, marine, construction, and electrical enclosures.

High-Grade Neoprene Gaskets

High-Grade Neoprene Gaskets

High-Grade Neoprene gaskets deliver exceptional performance in demanding situations and are formulated to withstand rigorous mechanical, chemical and environmental wear.

FDA-Approved Neoprene Gaskets

FDA-Approved Neoprene Gaskets

Made with EC and FDA-approved rubber material, these oil, water and temperature-resistant gaskets are the perfect sealing solution for food processing, food packaging and refrigeration seals.

FRAS Neoprene Gaskets

FRAS Neoprene Gaskets

Designed to resist fire, maintain its integrity at extreme heat, and prevent the buildup of static, Fire Retardant Anti-Static (FRAS) Neoprene Gaskets provide reassurance where there is a risk of explosion.

Typical Engineering Characteristics

Unlike Nitrile rubber, which is primarily selected for resistance to petroleum oils, neoprene performs well where sealing components are exposed to water, weathering and intermittent contact with oils or greases. This versatility often makes it the preferred material for general-purpose engineering gaskets where multiple operating conditions must be considered. Actual performance depends on compound formulation and operating conditions.

Property Typical Performance
Operating Temperature  min -35 max +100 °C
Water & Saltwater Resistance Excellent
Weather, UV & Ozone Resistance Excellent
Abrasion Resistance Good
Compression Recovery Good

 

Chemical Compatibility

Neoprene performs well with:

  • Water and seawater
  • Dilute acids and alkalis
  • Refrigerants
  • Mineral oils and greases (moderate resistance)
  • Selected petroleum-based hydraulic fluids

It is generally not recommended for prolonged exposure to:

  • Aromatic hydrocarbons (benzene, toluene and xylene)
  • Ketones
  • Esters
  • Strong oxidising chemicals

Material compatibility should always be assessed alongside operating temperature and pressure.

Neoprene FAQ image

Neoprene FAQ

Is Neoprene suitable for hydraulic oil?

Neoprene offers moderate resistance to many mineral oil-based hydraulic fluids and may be suitable for some hydraulic applications. However, compatibility depends on the specific hydraulic fluid, operating temperature and pressure. Where oil resistance is the primary requirement, Nitrile (NBR) is often the preferred elastomer.

READ MORE ABOUT HYDRAULIC GASKET COMPATIBILITY

What is the difference between Neoprene and Nitrile gaskets?

Neoprene is generally selected for its resistance to weathering, ozone, water and outdoor exposure, while Nitrile (NBR) is primarily specified for petroleum oils, fuels and hydraulic fluids. The most suitable material depends on the operating environment rather than on one material being universally superior.

How long do Neoprene gaskets last?

Service life depends on operating conditions, including temperature, chemical exposure, compression and maintenance practices. When correctly specified and installed within their design limits, Neoprene gaskets can provide many years of reliable sealing performance in industrial applications.

Are Neoprene gaskets suitable for potable water?

Certain neoprene compounds are approved for potable water applications, but not all grades meet drinking water regulations. Where potable water compliance is required, the gasket material should be specified to the relevant approval standard, such as WRAS or NSF where applicable.

NEED ADVICE?
Talk to a Technician

Our highly experienced technicians can advise you on the best sheet materials and manufacturing processes for a wide range of gasket applications.

CALL: +44 (0) 1535 607257

NEOPRENE GASKET APPLICATIONS
Selecting the Right Neoprene Grade

The term neoprene covers a range of compounds with differing hardness, mechanical properties and chemical performance. Selecting the correct grade involves more than simply specifying the material name.

Factors that influence gasket performance include:

  • Operating temperature
  • Pressure and flange loading
  • Chemical exposure
  • Required compressibility
  • Environmental conditions
  • Gasket thickness and hardness

By considering these factors at the specification stage, engineers can maximise gasket life and minimise the risk of premature sealing failure. Dobson Gaskets provides technical guidance alongside precision manufacturing to ensure each neoprene gasket is matched to its intended application.

  • Industrial Machinery
  • Automotive Systems
  • Electrical Enclosures
  • HVAC Systems
  • Marine & Offshore Equipment
  • Home Appliances
  • Food Preparation & Storage
  • Plumbing
  • Aerospace Components
  • Medical Equipment

Gasket Sheet Materials

We supply a vast range of gasket materials, available to buy directly or order from us. For more information visit the Gasket Sheet Materials page

  • PTFE Gasket Sheet
  • Rubber Gasket Sheet
  • Spiral Wound Gasket Sheet
  • Teflon Gasket Sheet
  • Viton Gasket Sheet
  • Graphite Gasket Sheet
  • Novus Gasket Sheet
  • Flexitallic Gasket Sheet
  • Closed Cell Foam Gasket Sheet
  • Neoprene Foam Gasket Sheet
  • Sponge Gasket Sheet
  • Durlon Gasket Sheet
  • Grafoil Gasket Sheet
  • Paper Gasket Sheet
  • High Temperature Gasket Sheet
  • Head Gasket Material Sheet
  • Exhaust Gasket Sheet
  • Fibre Gasket Sheet