Rubber diaphragms are flexible rubber membranes, sometimes reinforced with fabric, strategically placed to prevent unwanted transfer of substances between two places by creating a seal. They can be used to separate two gasses, two liquids, or one gas and one liquid that should not mix.

It is a bit of an industry misconception that all rubber diaphragms are thin pieces of rubber. In fact, diaphragms come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. The thickness depends on how big in diameter the diaphragm is and how flexible you need it to be. At SYNTHETIC RUBBER PRODUCTS, we’ve manufactured 28-inch diaphragms that were ⅛” thick and one-inch diaphragms only millimetres thick. 

Diaphragms can be made of a wide variety of rubber materials, depending on final application. Read on to learn more about the benefits of rubber diaphragms and when you should use one in place of a gasket or traditional seal.

HOW AND WHERE ARE RUBBER DIAPHRAGMS BEST USED?

Rubber diaphragms have a wide range of applications, but are most often used in environments where pressure differentials are present. With low fluid permeability and the ability to flex from side to side, rubber diaphragms act as a sealing solution while providing a consistent pressure differential.

Elastomers, and rubber in particular, are a great material to use for diaphragms due to their elastic properties. Rubber diaphragms allow for a wide range of pressure differentials while remaining durable and flexible.