Edge Trims and Trim Seals

Edge trims and trim seals are used to provide a decorative or protective edge, or to seal or fill a gap between two surfaces. They are used with boats, car door, machine guards, windows, and many other products. Grip size, operating temperature, and materials are important specifications to consider when selecting edge trims and seal trims. Grip size is the thickness of the edge, flange, or lip that the edge trim or trim seal fits. Operating temperature is specified as a full-required range. Materials of construction include many different types of metals and plastics. Often, different materials are used for the exterior and the core.

Edge trims may have individual internal metal clips and a gripping tongue to provide added strength. Trim seals are often coated with vinyl or rubber to provide protection against corrosion, noise, and rattling. Materials of construction vary by application. Choices include aluminum, beryllium copper, butyl, copper, cork, ethylene propylene (EPDM), fluoroelastomers, foam, graphite, and neoprene. Edge trims and trim seals are also made of nitrile, paper, polyamides, polyethylene (PE), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), rubber, silicone, and steel. EPDM with a sponge core is a common choice.

Some suppliers categorize edge trims and trim seals as gaskets and gasketing. Products include U-section rubbers and bulb seals, as well as rectangular sponge profiles, square sponge profiles, and round sponge profiles. U-section rubbers may be shaped like the letter U, or resemble a horseshoe or cotter pin. Bulb seals come in distinct shapes and sizes. Square and rectangular sponge profiles carry measurements for length and width. Diameter must be considered when selecting edge trims and trim seals with round profiles.

In terms of features, edge trims and trim seals may be adhesive-backed or chrome-coated. Typically, adhesive-backed products use a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA). Chrome-coated products are silver in color and are often used with vehicles and equipment. Edge trims and trim seals that provide shielding against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI) are also available. Gaskets and gasketing made of non-asbestos materials consist of compressed carbon, synthetic, or other fibers bonded with rubber. These products are suitable for a wide variety of industrial sealing applications.