This article will outline the main differences between Aflas® vs Viton® O-rings. Customers typically request FKM or FFKM for harsher working conditions. However, choosing a lesser known compound can save a lot of money in the long term. Aflas® is a member of the fluoroelastomer family based on an alternating copolymer of TFE and propylene (FEPM). Introduced by the Asahi Glass Ltd under the name AFLAS®, just 5 years after the invention of FKM, in 1975. The unique polymer structure of Aflas® offers properties with a continuous working temperature of 200°C and a maximum peak exposure temperature of 205°C, with outstanding chemical resistance.  Continue reading →

Difference between MQ, VMQ, PMQ and FVMQ

Silicone rubber is known by several terms which can lead to misinterpretation. Firstly, the ISO (International Organisation for Standardisation) uses the abbreviations of MQ, VMQ, PMQ and FVMQ. Conversely, ASTM (American Society of Testing and Materials) uses its own designations of GE, FC, FE and FK. For this reason, we will explain the structural differences indicated by these terms and the unique properties they provide.

Silicone is the preferred material for use with food, medical and aerospace industries due to its great flexibility, thermal stability, low toxicity, resistance to oxygen, ozone and UV, as well resistance to microbiological growth. It offers the widest temperature range of all O-ring materials from -55°C to 200°C as standard, with specially compounded versions ranging from -115°C to +232°C.

Heat is one of the most destructive forces in compound deterioration. To decide which is the best high temperature O-ring, it is important to consider other factors such as the required chemical resistance. For high temperature applications (over 150°C) you may wish to consider using one of the following materials; FKM, FFKM, ACM, HNBR, VMQ, FVMQ, AFLAS, PTFE and FEP.

Behind every rubber material is a story of discovery that led to its widespread use in the modern world. Today, we’re taking a closer look at polyurethane rubber, which was first invented by Professor. Dr. Otto Bayer in Germany, 1937. The chemical fabrication led to the further development of materials such as polyurethane foam, sponge, insulation, seals, gaskets, wheels, tires, suspension bushes, adhesives, clothing materials (spandex), surface coatings and more. With an impressive accolade of applications, what exactly makes this rubber so unique?

Polymax Apprenticeships

It’s national apprenticeship week! This year’s theme is aimed to help raise awareness about how apprenticeships work. We’re very proud to support the scheme and currently employ two apprentices who are an absolute integral part of our team.

Our regular customers are probably very well acquainted with the two of them. Sydney lee studies Business Administration at Havant & Southdown’s College, she’s worked at Polymax for almost a year now. We also have Lewis Mockford who is 9 months into his Digital Marketing apprenticeship though Portsmouth Highbury College.

To celebrate their success with us we thought we’d give them platform to speak about their experience as an apprentice and what it’s like working at Polymax HQ.

Over the years we've realised our products can be used for pretty much anything. Whilst we might supply our products with a general purpose in mind, it's always fascinating to hear how our customers have used them in unpredictable ways. So to continue our unusual uses blog series, we've collected the weird and wonderful ways our customers have utilised our rubber cord.

Fixing Primary Chain Case Oil Leaks

1953 Norton 'Dominator'

Firstly, a niche problem for vintage motorbike enthusiasts. Older motorcycle models use a primary chain that connects the engine to the transmission. Since it requires a good amount of oil lubricant, the primary chain case encloses the chain and oil. This can be problematic as the seal can become worn over time resulting in oil leakage. A review left by an anonymous customer detailed how they sealed the primary chain case on their 1953 Norton 'Dominator'. They used trail and error for the correct size and ended up fitting our Neoprene Sponge Cord 12mm Diameter. In their own words getting an oil tight seal was "No mean achievement" - Great work!

The correct adhesive is a crucial first step to ensure great durability and the best quality finish for your brand new flooring. However, this is a specialist job so please ensure you follow the manufacturer's instructions exactly. For further recommendations read our flooring guide and contact us if you have questions.

The type of adhesive you are looking to use depends upon the application and type of flooring. We would generally recommend the following...

Perfect for any dry space such as a garage, office or hallway.

It's always great to hear how our products have been put to an unconventional use. Over the years we've been told that our components have been just the ticket to solve many creative problems. As a result, we wanted to showcase some of the innovative ways our customers have redesigned the use of our products. Starting with the highly versatile O-ring.

Scandinavian Style Lampshades

All credit to Red Kite Designs for their handmade "Blade" Lampshade.

Firstly, from the heart of Wales, Red Kite Designs have used our EPDM O-rings to hold the 'waist' of their wooden lampshades. The design is created using precision cutting and no glue whatsoever. While saving the seals from a hard life of 120°C temperature extremes and break fluid systems - phew! You can view the rest of Red Kite Design's handmade items through their website or follow their Facebook Page.

It's official! We are suppliers for Peter Andre's 60 Minute Makeover

It's fantastic to be able to help such a rewarding programme. For those out of the loop, contestants are nominated by friends and family to have their home completely redesigned in 60 minutes. Peter Andre steers the ship, presenting the programme whilst keeping everyone motivated during the build.

We were approached by the designers of the show to help them find a quick and easy bathroom flooring solution, and our Circa Pro range was the first thing to come to mind. We cannot give away any more details until the show airs. So be sure to catch it on Quest Red at 7pm on Tuesday 20th February 2018.

(Quest Red is on Freeview 38, Freesat 169, Sky 162, Virgin 215 and BT TV 38)

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Flooring is often neglected, but is in fact one of the most important aspects of domestic or commercial furnishing. Conventional flooring options include carpets, laminate and ceramic or stone tiles. However, due to its durability and resistance to damage, rubber is also considered to be an appropriate flooring material. Continue reading →