Worried your gasket material will fail under high heat? Choosing the wrong rubber can lead to deformation, leaks, or even equipment damage in thermal environments.
The maximum continuous operating temperature for a standard nitrile (NBR) gasket is approximately 120°C (248°F), with short-term peaks up to 135°C (275°F).
Understanding these limits is essential to avoid premature failure in engines, hydraulics, or machinery operating under elevated heat.
Why Temperature Limits Matter for NBR Gaskets?
Pushed a gasket past its limit? It may harden, crack, or leak.
Nitrile gaskets begin to lose elasticity and mechanical strength when exposed to continuous temperatures above 120°C. This compromises sealing performance.
🔥 Effects of High Temperature on NBR:
- Becomes brittle and hard above 130°C
- Compression set increases—leads to permanent deformation
- Loss of sealing force and oil resistance
- Shortened lifespan in pressurized applications
For environments consistently exceeding 120°C, consider alternative rubbers like Viton (FKM)1 or silicone.
Temperature Range of Nitrile Gaskets
Not all rubbers are rated equally.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Minimum Service Temperature | -35°C (-31°F) |
| Maximum Continuous Temperature | +120°C (248°F) |
| Maximum Intermittent Spike | +135°C (275°F) for brief use |
These ratings apply to standard compound NBR. Special high-temp NBR grades exist but are less common and more costly.
When to Avoid Nitrile Due to Heat?
Avoid using nitrile gaskets2 near exhaust systems, boilers, or high-temperature steam environments3. NBR is not designed for continuous high-heat exposure.
- ❌ Steam applications
- ❌ Heat exchangers
- ❌ Automotive turbo zones
- ❌ Flanges operating above 130°C
Instead, opt for FKM/Viton (up to 230°C) or silicone (up to 200–230°C) for long-term heat resistance.
Conclusion
Standard nitrile gaskets operate best up to 120°C. Beyond this limit, material degradation becomes rapid. Always match your gasket to the actual temperature demands of your system to ensure long-term sealing performance.
🌡️ Need temperature-rated gaskets for oil or fuel systems?
Contact Julong Rubber or Request a Quote for nitrile gaskets tailored to your pressure and temperature specs.
Or reach out to us directly via WhatsApp:
Explore the advantages of Viton (FKM) for high-temperature applications, ensuring optimal performance and longevity in extreme conditions. ↩
Learn about nitrile gaskets, their properties, and suitable applications to make informed choices for your projects. ↩
Understand the risks associated with high-temperature steam environments to ensure safety and material integrity in your applications. ↩
