Frequently Asked Questions

Shore hardness is a key factor we discuss when referring to many of our products. It measures the resistance of a material to indentation, and different hardness values are better suited for specific applications. Understanding shore hardness helps ensure you choose the ideal material for your needs. In this guide, we’ll explain how shore hardness is measured and how it varies between products.

Types of Shore Hardness

Shore hardness is categorised into different scales, with each type used for specific materials. There are 12 different hardness scales, but the most common ones in rubber products are Shore (00), Shore (A), and Shore (D). Each scale measures hardness on a range from 0 to 100.

• Shore (00): Measures the hardness of very soft materials, such as sponge and foam, which are flexible and compressible.
• Shore (A): Covers a wide range of hardness, from soft to hard materials. It’s commonly used for products like rubber fenders, which need to be firm yet compressible under pressure.
• Shore (D): Used for very hard materials, like those found in safety helmets, where rigidity and impact resistance are crucial.

Comparing Shore Hardness

You may notice some overlap between the scales. For instance, a material with Shore (A) 60° hardness may appear to be the same as a material with Shore (D) 0°. However, the materials behave differently. A product made from Shore (D) material will be much less flexible, making it unsuitable for applications requiring flexibility, such as rubber fenders that need to absorb impacts.

Simplifying Shore Hardness

To make shore hardness easier to understand, remember:

• The earlier the letter in the scale (A vs. D), the softer the material.
• The lower the number within a scale, the softer the material.

If you have any questions about selecting the right shore hardness for your application, feel free to reach out. We’re happy to help you find the best material for your needs.

You can find datasheets directly on our product pages. If you need additional information or can’t find what you’re looking for, please feel free to email or call us—we’re here to help.

Yes, we can provide samples for most of our products. Simply reach out to us with details about your potential order, and we’ll confirm if a sample is available.

Gaskets are precisely cut from materials best suited to their intended application. Typically, they are made from flexible materials and can be cut using knife, press, waterjet, or laser methods.

To order a gasket:

1. Specify the dimensions required.
2. Specify the material or outline the material requirements.
3. Send your enquiry to our team of experts via email or using the ‘Request a Quotation’ button.

Once we receive your enquiry, we’ll assess the best production method based on your gasket’s size, material, and desired lead time, ensuring a high-quality result tailored to your needs.

Over time, some gasket materials can harden or soften, often adhering to metal surfaces like flanges. Removing old gaskets carefully is essential to avoid damaging the metal surface, which can impact future sealing performance. In some cases, a chemical remover may be useful. If you’re unsure about the best approach, please contact us for technical assistance and advice.

While the terms “gasket” and “seal” are often used interchangeably, they typically serve different functions. Gaskets are generally flat, two-dimensional shapes designed to seal between flat surfaces, and they are usually cut or pressed from flexible materials. Seals, on the other hand, are usually three-dimensional and are moulded or machined to fit specific applications.

The pitch circle diameter (P.C.D.) is the measurement used to specify the centre alignment of the bolt holes on your gasket. It’s measured from the centre of the gasket’s bore.