Silicone valve Shore A Hardness
Key attributes
|
Shore A Hardness |
Hardness Description |
Key Mechanical Propertiesey Mechanical Properties |
Sealing & FlexibilitSealing & Flexibilityy |
Typical Valve AppTypical Valve Applicationslications |
|
40A - 50A |
Soft / Medium-Soft |
Tensile Strength: 4.0 - 6.0 MPa |
Excellent flexibility and conformability. |
Low-pressure check valves, relief valves, pneumatic valves, medical/fluidic control valves, diaphragm pumps (for sensitive fluids). |
|
60A |
Medium / Standard |
Tensile Strength: 6.0 - 8.0 MPa |
Optimal balance of flexibility and durability. |
General-purpose solenoid valves, fuel system valves, water faucet cartridges, air compressor valves, automotive emission control valves, many industrial fluid valves. |
|
70A - 80A |
Firm / Hard |
Tensile Strength: 7.0 - 9.0+ MPa |
High rigidity and extrusion resistance. |
High-pressure valves (hydraulic, refrigerant), gas valves, pulsation dampeners, heavy-duty pump diaphragms, valves with frequent cycling or abrasive media. |
Silicone Valve Diaphragm/Disc Parameter Table (Shore A Hardness Comparison)
Hardness Selection Guidelines
Choose Softer (40A-50A):
For low-pressure sealing (<50 psi / 3.5 bar).
When excellent conformability to rough surfaces is needed.
For very high cycle life with low actuation force.
In low-temperature environments.
Choose Standard (60A):
For most general industrial and automotive applications (pressure range ~5-150 psi / 0.3-10 bar).
When a balance of sealing, durability, and cost is required.
As the best starting point for prototyping.
Choose Harder (70A-80A):
For high-pressure systems (>150 psi / 10 bar) to prevent extrusion.
When high rigidity and precise actuation movement are critical.
For abrasive media or where exceptional wear resistance is needed.
In high-temperature environments where material softening must be minimized.