Ask a 3M Expert
Thank you for your interest in 3M Industrial Adhesive & Tape solutions. A 3M Converter Markets Representative or a 3M Preferred Converter will contact you by phone or email.
Sealing & Gasketing
Resistance to fluids, high adhesion to difficult to bond surfaces, and fast and easy application.
Seals vs. Gaskets
-
SealsSeals are protective elements used with dynamic or moving elements that are precision engineered to prevent leaks or intrusion of contaminates between the sides of the seal.
-
GasketsGaskets are a type of sealing device but are not considered a seal as it is used between two static flanges.
-
-
Examples of Seals & Applications
O-Rings
Shafts
Pumps
Valves
Motors
Pistons -
Exmaples of Seals & Applications
Door and trunk weather stripping
Cylinder head gasket
Electrical panels
Electronic devices
HVAC
Access panels
-
-
Sealing
Single sided tapes are used every day to create seals and enhance the longevity of your device. Whether it’s 3M™ Extreme Sealing tape designed for extensive outdoor exposure or a metal foil tape for HVAC ducts or airbag inators, 3M has a portfolio of options to help you seal out the elements or keep materials from egressing into the wild.
-
Spacers
Sealing and gasketing materials can be used for creating custom spacers. While it’s nice to have all of your dimensions be exact, holding tight tolerances has a cost. Many designs utilize a foam or compressible spacer layer to help fill the gap or take up the slack. While your gasket provides sealing it can also takes up the mismatch in your stack-up. Sealing and gasketing materials can also protect your devices from shock, vibration and impacts.
-
-
-
Permanent (Double-Sided)
Permanent seals are designed to be left in place, a Pressure Sensitive Adhesive can create this type of seal. 3M VHB Acrylic foam tapes can create a double-sided adhesive gasket, which helps keep contaminants from intruding in your design. 3M VHB tapes utilize a closed cell acrylic foam that seal out air, dirt, dust, and liquids; providing your device with strong, durable adhesion and protection from contaminates to offer you peace of mind.
-
Temorary or Openable Gaskets (Single-Sided Tapes)
There are times when seals or gaskets may need to be opened or inspected. Using single side adhesive or tape allows you to easily open and access your device with the seal or gasket remaining in place.
-
-
-
Water Sealing
VHB foam tapes utilize closed cell acrylic foam that keeps water, dirt, dust and contaminants from intruding in your design. Whether it’s just a seal, gasket, or a device that needs to achieve an ingress protection rating, VHB foam tapes can help you achieve the protection you require. Pressure Sensitive Adhesives can assist you with their flexibility, conformability, ability to bond dissimilar materials, durability, and ability to keep contaminants out of your device.
-
Noise
Noise, vibration and harshness got you down? Sealing and gasketing is also a sound management technique. Open cell foams can allow sound in, but it tends to dissipate in the labyrinth of cells. Even better is combining a sound absorption material sensitive adhesives. Perhaps you need to isolate two materials to allow them to move without generating buzz squeaks or rattles. 3M has a variety of options to help you seal out sound or damp vibrating components to assist you with making your design quieter.
-
-
-
High Temps
Is your current solution melting from high temp exposure? 3M has a portfolio of tape options that can be used for gasketing in applications up to 550° F (260° C). Heat softens materials and can have unintended consequences, connect with our specialists to discuss your needs and start working with the optimal product for your devices exposure needs.
-
Customization - Converters
From prototype to production, 3M’s network of Converters can assist you with your design and production needs. From a custom thickness to adhesive backed materials, converters can create the construction and shape you need.
-
Connect with 3M experts
Learn more about how the process works, and let us connect you with the right partner and procuts for your needs.
