Posted by Mike Burris on | Comments Off on Importance of Choosing the Right Gasket Material
Absolutely, choosing the right material for a gasket might seem like a minor detail in the grand scheme of things, but it holds immense importance in various industries and applications. Whether it’s in automotive engines, pipelines, or industrial machinery, the gasket plays a pivotal role in maintaining a seal between two or more surfaces, preventing leakage of fluids or gases. The material used for a gasket significantly impacts its performance and durability, making the selection process a crucial step in ensuring the overall efficiency and safety of a system.
The Significance of Material Selection
Sealing Performance
The primary function of a gasket is to create a reliable seal between mating surfaces. The material’s ability to withstand pressure, temperature, and the nature of the substances it seals against is critical. Different materials possess varying degrees of resistance to fluids, chemicals, and extreme conditions. For instance, while a silicone-based gasket might excel in resisting extreme temperatures, it might not be suitable for applications involving harsh chemicals. Thus, selecting a material compatible with the specific operating environment is paramount.
Environmental Factors
Considerations for temperature, pressure, and environmental exposure are vital in gasket material selection. Factors such as exposure to sunlight, moisture, ozone, and fluctuating temperatures can deteriorate certain materials over time. Additionally, thermal cycling and compression set, the ability of a material to return to its original shape after compression, are crucial factors in gasket longevity. Materials like neoprene, EPDM, and fluorocarbon are known for their resilience in diverse environmental conditions.
Compatibility with Fluids and Gases
The material’s resistance to the fluids or gases it comes into contact with is crucial. Chemical compatibility charts are often consulted to ensure the gasket material remains stable and does not degrade when exposed to the substances it seals. Some materials might perform well with water-based solutions but may deteriorate quickly when exposed to oils or aggressive chemicals. Selecting a chemically compatible material with the substances it encounters ensures the gasket’s longevity and reliability.
We have a great downloadable resource called The Ultimate Chemical Compatability Guide for Rubber Materials. This chart is a general guide, indicating the suitability of various elastomers for service in these chemicals and fluids.
Industry-Specific Requirements
Different industries have specific standards and requirements for gaskets. For example, the food and pharmaceutical industries have stringent regulations regarding materials that come into contact with consumable products. These industries typically require gasket materials that are non-toxic, FDA compliant, and resistant to bacterial growth.
Conclusion
Choosing the right material for a gasket is a meticulous process that requires thorough consideration of various factors. From environmental conditions to chemical compatibility and industry-specific standards, each aspect plays a crucial role in determining the gasket’s performance and longevity. A well-selected gasket material not only ensures a reliable seal but also contributes significantly to the overall efficiency, safety, and longevity of the systems it is a part of. In essence, the seemingly small choice of gasket material holds the power to impact the reliability and success of an entire system.
Posted by Mike Burris on | Comments Off on CGR Products: Your Trusted Supplier for UL Listed Closed Cell Sponge with Adhesive
When it comes to sourcing high-quality UL listed materials for sealing and gasket applications, CGR Products stands out as a reliable partner. With a commitment to excellence and a track record of providing performance-enhancing solutions, CGR has become the preferred choice for businesses seeking UL listed closed cell sponge rubber with adhesive.
What Makes CGR Products Special?
UL Listing and Rigorous Standards CGR Products offer three UL listed closed cell sponge rubber with pressure-sensitive adhesive combinations that meet UL JMLU2 50E standards. These listings cover a wide range of applications, including electrical enclosures, control panels, and appliances. UL requires all gaskets comprised of pressure-sensitive adhesive laminated to sponge rubber to meet UL Recognized Component standards. CGR’s solutions address this requirement by creating and certifying three distinct combinations:
CGR 8002 (EPDM Sponge) with Avery’s high-performance 702P acrylic adhesive.
CGR 5031 (Neoprene/SBR/EPDM Sponge) with 3M 9824 acrylic adhesive.
CGR DK1111LD (Neoprene/EPDM Sponge) with 3M 9816 rubber adhesive.
Expertise and Custom Solutions CGR Products brings decades of experience to the table. Our team of experts collaborates closely with clients to understand their specific needs. Whether it’s a unique application or a custom design, CGR tailors solutions to fit the requirements precisely.
Quality Assurance CGR’s commitment to quality extends beyond UL listings. Our materials undergo rigorous testing and inspection to ensure consistent performance. Customers can trust that CGR’s closed cell sponge rubber with adhesive meets the highest industry standards.
Real-World UL Gasket Applications
CGR’s UL listed closed cell sponge with adhesive combinations has applications in various industries:
Electrical Enclosures: Reliable sealing to protect sensitive electronics.
Control Panels: Ensuring safety and functionality.
Appliances: Sealing components for household appliances.
Industrial Equipment: Gaskets that withstand harsh environments.
And Many More.
Conclusion
When it comes to UL listed closed cell sponge rubber with adhesive, CGR Products is the name you can rely on. Our commitment to quality, expertise, and customized solutions makes them the go-to supplier for businesses seeking top-notch materials. Trust CGR to enhance your products with reliable sealing solutions.
Posted by Mike Burris on | Comments Off on Choosing CGR Products for All Types of Die Cut Gaskets and Seals
CGR Products utilizes a variety of die cutting methods to produce a product that is precisely the shape and dimensions that are required. Our state-of-the-art methods can be used to cut almost any design out of soft, flexible non-metallic materials, as well as some harder and more rigid substrates.
1. Expertise and Quality Assurance
CGR Products, with its four locations, has established itself as a world-class converter of gaskets, seals, and die-cut parts. Our history of providing performance-enhancing and cost-saving solutions speaks volumes about our expertise. When it comes to critical components like gaskets and seals, quality assurance is paramount. We ensure that every product leaving our facility meets the highest standards.
2. Custom Cutting and Fabrication Services
CGR Products offers custom cutting and fabricating capabilities that transform materials into high-quality, precision components. Whether you need gaskets for industrial machinery, automotive applications, or appliances, CGR can tailor solutions to your specific requirements. Our cutting capabilities include:
Rotary Die Cutting: Ideal for high-volume production.
Flatbed Die Cutting: Perfect for intricate shapes and smaller quantities.
Kiss Cutting: Precision cutting for pressure-sensitive materials.
Knife Cutting: Dieless cutting for flexibility.
Waterjet Cutting: Provides versatility and accuracy.
Large Format Cutting: Perfect for large high-volume parts.
3. Material Selection
CGR works with a variety of materials to fit your application needs:
Tapes & Adhesives
Fiber Materials
Open/Closed-Cell Foam
Solid Rubber
Miscellaneous Materials
4. UL Listed Gaskets and Seals
If you’re specifically looking for UL listed gaskets and seals, CGR Products has you covered. All four of our locations procure quality materials that meet UL specifications. CGR Products also manufactures 3 specific closed cell sponge with adhesive combinations that can be used according to UL50E JLMU2.
5. Responsiveness
CGR Products prides itself on one of our company values “Be Responsive” and has received positive reviews from customers. Our customer service team ensures that your queries are addressed promptly.
Conclusion
When it comes to die-cut gaskets and seals, CGR Products stands out for its expertise, quality, and customized solutions. Whether you’re in North America, or anywhere else, consider CGR for your gasket needs. Visit our website to learn more: CGR Products.
Remember, choosing the right gasket supplier can make all the difference in the performance and longevity of your product. Trust CGR Products to deliver excellence.
Posted by Mike Burris on | Comments Off on Unveiling the Top Reasons to Choose CGR Products for Your Sealing Solutions
CGR Products is renowned for its commitment to quality, expertise, and innovation in the realm of gaskets, seals, and custom fabricated sealing solutions. Choosing CGR Products as your gasket provider can be pivotal for various industries and applications. Here’s why sourcing gaskets from CGR is so crucial:
Unparalleled Expertise
CGR Products boasts extensive expertise in the field of gasket manufacturing and fabrication. With decades of experience, our team possesses in-depth knowledge of materials, manufacturing processes, and applications across diverse industries. This expertise enables us to offer tailored solutions and recommendations to meet specific customer needs, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
Customization and Precision
One size does not fit all when it comes to gaskets. CGR Products understands this and excels in providing customized solutions. Our commitment to precision and customization allows for the creation of gaskets that perfectly match unique specifications, ensuring a tight seal and optimal performance in various environments and applications.
Wide Range of Materials and Capabilities
CGR Products offers an extensive selection of materials suitable for different industries and applications. From rubber and foam to specialized materials like silicone, 3M VHB, and Rogers Poron, our catalog covers a broad spectrum. Additionally, our diverse manufacturing capabilities enable the production of gaskets in various shapes, sizes, and complexities, meeting the demands of even the most challenging projects.
Quality Assurance and Compliance
Quality is a hallmark of CGR Products. We adhere to stringent quality control measures throughout the manufacturing process, ensuring that each gasket meets the highest standards. Moreover, we comply with industry-specific regulations and standards, providing gaskets that are certified and suitable for use in industries with strict compliance requirements, such as automotive, and medical sectors.
Commitment to Customer Service
CGR Products prioritizes customer satisfaction. Our dedicated team works closely with clients, offering technical support, guidance, and assistance at every stage of the process, from material selection to product delivery. This commitment to exceptional customer service fosters strong, long-lasting relationships built on trust and reliability.
Innovation and Continuous Improvement
Staying ahead in the industry requires constant innovation and evolution. CGR Products invests in research and development, continuously exploring new materials, technologies, and manufacturing techniques to enhance gasket performance and efficiency. Our commitment to innovation ensures that customers benefit from cutting-edge solutions.
In conclusion, CGR Products stands as a leading authority in the gasket industry, offering unparalleled expertise, customization, quality, and customer service. Choosing CGR Products as your gasket provider ensures not just a product, but a partnership focused on delivering high-quality, tailored solutions that meet your specific needs and exceed expectations.
Posted by Chuck Keeley on | Comments Off on The “Real” You
Do you really know the “real” you? Almost everyone will emphatically say yes.
So, what is the “real” you? Is it what you think of yourself or is it what others think of you? If it is who you think you are, then everyone will answer the above question, yes. People can easily list the characteristics that describe themselves. However, if the real you is what others think of you, then I would suggest that most people don’t know who they are, at least to some degree. Other people must work with you, live with you, and interact with you so what they think of you is the most important thing, so I would conclude that the real you is what others think of you.
Almost everyone can list their weaknesses. But if you really felt they were weaknesses, wouldn’t you try to change them? I would say that one of my weaknesses is that I don’t live in the moment and that I am always looking for the next thing (my wife would wholeheartedly agree). However, I am quick to say that is actually a strength. After all, it makes me efficient and helps me stay ahead. Another example is my communication style. My wife thinks I am too direct, and I would say that I agree, however, do I? Actually, I think it makes me a better communicator.
Have you ever said, “That person has no idea how they negatively impact others?” What if people say that about you? That would be scary. So how do you honestly learn what other people think of you? That may seem easy, but it is almost impossible for even the most perceptive people.
One option is to ask the people that are closest to you. This can be effective, but you need to understand a few potential problems. First, this group can be biased positively or negatively because of the relationship. For example, when my kids were teenagers, they would have been very biased negatively, right boys? Close friends can be biased positively because they are “like” you, including the weaknesses. Finally, most people will not be candid. Another option is to ask a consultant. This can be effective as well if the consultant is good and uses the right assessment tools. The last option I will mention is to participate in an anonymous 360-degree assessment with your team. In this format, it is important to look for trends, not one-off opinions. I like this method the best. Before you embark on any of these options, ask yourself, are you willing to listen to the feedback with a desire to change?
In conclusion, the most important thing is that you are comfortable and happy with who you think you are! If you are, then none of this diatribe really matters. Well, I hope it was at least fun to read and made you think a little.
Have a great holiday and we have enjoyed working with all our constituents in 2023.
Posted by Chuck Keeley on | Comments Off on Open Cell vs. Closed Cell Foam: What’s the Difference?
At CGR Products, we field a lot of questions about the differences between open and closed cell foam. To address these inquiries, we’ll be comparing the two types of foam and outlining the unique benefits and properties of each.
When deciding on a material for your specific project, it’s important to understand which kind of foam will best serve your application and meet your unique requirements. The benefits of each type of foam can differ depending on your specific industry, so it’s important to fully assess each option before moving forward.
Open Cell Foam
Open cell foam is a rubber-like product made by incorporating an inflating agent, such as sodium bicarbonate, into the rubber compound; this agent gives off a gas, which expands the rubber during vulcanization.
Foam is usually classified as “open cell” when more than half of its cells are open. Common open cell materials include reticulated foam, polyurethane foam, and open cell rubber.
Some open cell foam is unique in that it operates more like a spring, easily returning to its original state after compression thanks to the unrestricted air movement and chemical makeup. Soft and breathable, open cell foam is generally more flexible and can more easily conform to sealing applications than closed cell foam. Open cell foam can also be manufactured at both high and low densities. It is less durable than closed cell options, however.
Reticulated foam is usually classified by PPI (pores per inch). 10 PPI foam would have large cell structures and allow the most flow, while 80 PPI foam would have very small cells and be more restrictive.
Closed Cell Foam
Closed cell foam is defined as a cell totally enclosed by its walls and hence not interconnecting with other cells. Closed cell foam is usually made by subjecting a rubber compound to a gas, such as nitrogen, under high pressure. This type of foam may also be made by incorporating gas-forming materials into the compound.
Closed cell foam offers a wide variety of material and density options. EPDM, neoprene, EPDM/CR/SBR, and PVC/NBR are a few common types of closed cell foams, which can range in densities from 6 lb/ft3 (soft) to 19 lb/ft3 (hard).
This type of material is ideal for sealing as it effectively reduces liquid and gas flow. Closed cell foam is also ideal for industries in which liquid resistance is critical, such as marine, HVAC, and automotive.
Learn More
CGR carries several types of open and closed cell materials, including neoprene, PVC/NBR, silicone, microcellular urethane foam (PORON®), and polyurethane foam, and we keep a wide variety in stock to reduce lead times. We can also convert foam materials as needed for your application and will work with your team to find a solution that works for your project, no matter how complex.
To learn more about foam materials and identify which type is right for your next project, download our comprehensive Chemical Compatibility Guide.
Posted by Mike Burris on | Comments Off on Die Cut Solutions for EV Batteries using Avery Dennison Materials
CGR Products is your go-to converter of die cut flexible materials for Electric Vehicle (EV) Batteries. CGR Products provides solutions for thermal runaway, sealing out elements, heat shielding, gap fillers, battery cushioning, and more. CGR Products is a leading converter to solve challenges for EV battery manufacturers.
Adhesives for Compression Pads
Avery Dennison offers pressure-sensitive adhesive tapes to bond compression pad foam that protects EV Battery cells.
Individual prismatic and pouch cells in EV Battery packs need protection from impact and movement. Pouch cells can also swell during charging and discharging. To help prevent damage, EV Battery manufacturers are placing foams backed with pressure-sensitive tape between each cell.
CGR Products offers full in-house converting of these adhesives to foam. Our first step is our lamination process for adhering the adhesive to the foam. We utilize various types of laminations depending on the application including thermal transfer, infrared, and hot roll lamination.
Second, we employ the optimal die cut method to make the compression pads. For ease of installation, CGR Products can supply these pads kiss cut on rolls. Kiss cutting is performed by cutting through the part down to, but not through, the release liner. The parts would be supplied on a roll or pad for easy “peel and stick” application.
Adhesives for Gasketing
Sealing and gasketing are critical for preventing water intrusion and unwanted noise, vibration, and harshness, and protecting pack enclosures from contact with the chassis. Avery Dennison offers transfer and double-coated tapes for bonding various gasket materials, including foams and fibers.
As described above with compression pads, CGR Products has complete in-house capabilities to laminate the adhesives and die cut the finished gaskets. We have extensive experience with laminating transfer and double coated tapes to various gasketing materials. The die cut gaskets can be supplied bulk packed in a box or kiss cut on rolls. Our team can help you with your gasketing project to ensure you get the easiest method for installation.
Adhesives for Thermal Management
EV and battery manufacturers have strict requirements against thermal runaway events and rely on mica, ceramic fibers, and other materials for protecting cells and passengers. Avery Dennison offers a variety of solutions for bonding these materials to cells, modules, and pack structures.
CGR Products offers lamination and die cut capabilities for these thermal management materials laminated with adhesive. These materials can be laminated with a double coat or transfer tape to help maintain the dielectric strength.
Learn More
Avery Dennison EV Battery Portfolio includes a wide range of available bonding and protection tapes, built on multiple pressure-sensitive adhesive technologies. These are engineered to make EV batteries safer, more efficient, and easier to assemble. To learn more about Avery Dennison EV Battery Tape Solutions click Here
CGR Products will work with you during the early stages of your project to high level production volumes. We have a vast network of preferred suppliers and manufacturers with expert advice in making the right material selection. We have 4 locations in the USA with over 190,000 sq ft of manufacturing space and are premier converters of foams, films, rubber, insulation, lamination, and more.
Feel free to contact us today about your upcoming EV Battery die cut applications.
Posted by Chuck Keeley on | Comments Off on Interesting Times
I have been working in the converting business since 1985 and I have never seen so many external inputs converge on the industrial sector at one time and hope I never do again. It has made business planning and proactive activities, let’s just say, exciting.
Distractions
Covid-19 – Pandemics are obviously rare so planning for that is an adventure all by itself. The last major pandemic was the Spanish flu in 1918 so no one alive today could help us learn from that experience. That said, the world is a very different place today with many more people and a lot more travel so what was learned during the Spanish flu would not have been that helpful anyway. And it wasn’t. The high level of social conflict that we are currently experiencing hasn’t helped either. I hope that goes away soon.
Supply Chain Disruptions – The drastic slowdown caused by the pandemic and the subsequent flood of demand that has occurred as the pandemic has waned has created shortages in a wide range of raw materials. We have seen specific raw material shortages in the past, but the breadth of the recent shortages has been shocking. I have participated in many meetings with both customers and suppliers that I would have never gotten involved with in the past. It is amazing how much time and energy this has required out of so many of our associates.
Inflation – We have had periods of inflation to match this current time, but they are rare and happened a long time ago. The 1970’s were comparable to today, but that was before my 35 years in the business. I was in high school and my experience with inflation at that time was waiting in line to get gas for my 1972 Toyota Corolla. We supply lots of sku’s to lots of customers, so this pricing pressure has also created an incredible amount of extra work for the associates in our company.
Finding Personnel – This has happened for several reasons, but mainly because of the high number of people that decided to retire due to Covid 19. The tenure at our company is outstanding and has helped us weather this storm, but when we have had to find new people, it has been difficult. You can tell people that you have a good company culture, but until a person gets to experience it, they really don’t know. Furthermore, every company is going to say that.
Recession Concerns – There has been a lot of talk about a coming recession. Any election will ramp up and potentially exaggerate that kind of talk and the recent election was no different. We have experienced some slowness in certain segments, but not companywide. It will be interesting to see how this unfolds.
Carrying On
I am not sure when or if this convergence of inputs will ever happen in the future. And frankly, I am not sure it has ever happened in the history of this country. These inputs have made decision making interesting to say the least. Some of these events are exact opposites. Planning for a business slowdown or recession and struggling to find people to hire at the same time makes no sense. We have done more reacting to events than planning and being proactive in the last two years than we ever have. It has not been our normal way to operate and has caused undue stress for everyone on our team.
We recently tabulated our engagement survey results and I am thrilled that we have maintained the high levels that we have experienced in the past. We use the Gallup 12 question engagement survey that has been around for a long time. We use this data to see how we compare to other companies and to see if our trends over time are performing adequately. Do we have some areas that bare watching, yes, but overall, we feel very good about where we are. The burdens on our associates in all departments has been very high due to all the external inputs I mentioned above. As we all know our associates are our most important asset, so navigating the extra stress is critical. It requires good communication from the department heads especially due to the combination of working on site and off site.
The past couple of years have created issues that call for difficult conversations with customers and suppliers. It has also created opportunities for success. Challenges can turn into successes when we effectively partner with our customers and suppliers. I think the title of this article, Interesting Times, sums up the last two years. It will be interesting to see what the future holds. Have a fabulous holiday season.
For most major car makers, all parts must be made from materials that are on their approved source list. It’s a competitive business and only the best suppliers with a proven track record of quality, new technology, on-time delivery and service will make the cut. Once a material has been included on the approved source list or our fabricator partners have been selected as preferred suppliers, the task is not over. We must continually maintain or improve our specs to stay competitive and meet the high expectations of auto makers and their supply chain.
Armacell’s foam is used in automotive components such as gaskets for sealing out water, air, dust or noise.
FIAT CHRYSLER AUTOMOBILES
In the 1930’s Chrysler was known for its iconic Chrysler building in New York City and affordable luxury vehicles. Now they are known as a maker of family cars including a hybrid. Armacell makes a number of materials on the approved source list for FCA including Monarch 3091® and EnsoLite® EF0 which meet the MSAY 430 spec. Both have the necessary resistance to UV, weathering and acid. They meet the horizontal burn requirements for interior automotive gaskets. EnsoLite EF0 has the added benefit of being a super soft and conformable, semi-closed cell, crushed foam that works well in applications that require the material to spring back to its original thickness.
Armacell made more than 6 million square feet of EnsoLite SF0 in 2018
TOYOTA MOTOR CORP
For 75 years, Toyota has disrupted the market and revolutionized manufacturing. As a maker of cars that are known for efficiency and reliability, Toyota stands by their brand. It makes sense that they insist on suppliers that do the same. Armacell makes a number of products that meet the tough Toyota TSM 1501G spec for automobile parts. Monarch 8002 is a 100% EPDM bun that has a dependable resistance to corrosive acids, UV and weathering. That means the material will hold up to the abuse auto parts take over time. EnsoLite IG1, manufactured in continuous rolls or sheets, has excellent resistance to oil, fuel and flame. These qualities make EnsoLite and Monarch great choices for gaskets and seals in automotive design.
Click Here to Download the Full Automotive Component Foams PDF.
To learn more about Armacell Products, visit their website – Armacell
To go along with the Component foams, Avery Dennison has put together an in-depth adhesive bonding study which can be found Here.
As flexible material specialists, the CGR Products team offers years of experience in converting foam material into gaskets and components. Our in-house precision cutting services include rotary and flatbed die cutting, kiss cutting, slitting, splitting, knife cutting, and more. For your next foam project, Contact Us today.
Posted by Mike Burris on | Comments Off on How to Prepare for Your Next Adhesive Materials Project
Adhesive bonding is often required for projects in many applications and industries.
With various types of bonds available to meet virtually any need, it’s important to know how to pinpoint the best option for your unique project. When discussing your application with a bonding products manufacturer, you will be presented with a series of questions in order to narrow down adhesive options. Being able to anticipate these preliminary questions and having a clear understanding of your needs will help ensure that your project runs as smoothly and cost efficiently as possible. (more…)
