Diaphragms are flexible membranes widely used in industrial applications, including pumps, pressure regulators, valves, actuators, sensors, automotive and HVAC systems. They act as a flexible barrier between two chambers, preventing fluids or gases from passing through the diaphragm and mixing with other media, while providing various functions depending on the application. Most are typically circular in shape and anchored around the edges.
Rubber Diaphragm Materials
They are commonly made of Nitrile (NBR), Hydrogenated Nitrile (HNBR), Fluorocarbon/Viton™ (FKM), PTFE, EPDM, and Silicone. These materials are selected and compounded to provide reliable sealing performance, including appropriate permeability, chemical resistance, and flexibility for the intended media and operating conditions.
Fabric Reinforced Diaphragms
Diaphragms can be further strengthened with a reinforced fabric layer to provide added structural strength and resistance to wear while maintaining flexibility. The construction of high-quality elastomer compound and reinforced fabric layer can extend service life of the diaphragm and reduce long-term maintenance costs in demanding operating conditions.
Read our case study on how an optimized HNBR compound and reinforced fabric layer improved diaphragm durability in an abrasive slurry pump application:: Extending Slurry Pump Service Life with Custom HNBR Rubber and Reinforced Fabric Diaphragms