Frequently Asked Questions — CR O-Rings
What is CR (Neoprene) rubber?
CR (Chloroprene Rubber), marketed as Neoprene® by DuPont, is one of the earliest synthetic rubbers. The chlorine atom in the polymer gives it a useful balance of moderate oil resistance, good weather resistance, and inherent flame retardancy — properties not found in natural rubber or simple hydrocarbon elastomers like SBR.
What temperature range can CR o-rings handle?
CR o-rings operate from −40 °C to +120 °C. They maintain good flexibility at low temperatures and are significantly more heat-stable than natural rubber. Long-term heat ageing above 100 °C will gradually harden the compound.
What chemicals is CR resistant to?
CR has good resistance to refrigerants (R-22, R-134a), mild petroleum oils and greases, water, ozone, weathering, dilute acids and alkalis, and salt spray. It is not suitable for aromatic hydrocarbons (benzene, toluene), ketones, chlorinated solvents, or concentrated acids and bases, which cause rapid degradation.
What are typical applications for CR o-rings?
CR o-rings are used in refrigeration and air conditioning systems (refrigerant sealing), marine equipment and offshore applications (salt water and weather resistance), building construction sealants and window gaskets, automotive hoses and belts, and general industrial sealing where moderate oil resistance with outdoor durability is required.