Sealing Solutions for Harsh Fall and Winter Conditions
When temperatures drop, the challenges rise. Cold weather brings more than just frost—it introduces moisture, pressure fluctuations, and temperature extremes that can weaken seals and compromise enclosure integrity. Whether your equipment operates outdoors, in unheated environments, or along transportation routes that face changing conditions, reliable sealing is essential to maintain performance, prevent corrosion, and minimize downtime.
At Sealing Devices, we help customers prepare systems for seasonal changes with weather-resistant materials, custom-fabricated gaskets, and venting technologies designed to perform year-round.
The Winter Challenge: Temperature Swings and Moisture Intrusion
- Thermal cycling expands and contracts materials, stressing seals.
- Condensation and humidity can cause corrosion, short circuits, and contamination.
- Cold brittleness hardens some materials and reduces elasticity.
The right material choice makes all the difference.
Silicone Sponge: Flexible and Reliable in the Cold
Silicone sponge is a versatile, closed-cell material that resists moisture, UV, and temperature extremes. It maintains compression set and flexibility after repeated freeze/thaw cycles—ideal for outdoor enclosures, access panels, and electronics. Available in multiple densities, we fabricate to spec via die-cutting, waterjet, or custom kitting.
PORON® Foam: Consistent Sealing in Dynamic Applications
For repeated compression or vibration, PORON® polyurethane foams provide durable, consistent performance over time. Unlike traditional foams, PORON® materials rebound reliably and resist compression set—even in the cold. Common uses include electronic displays and enclosures, vibration dampening, and consistent compression force in fluctuating environments.
Need enhanced fire performance? See PORON® 40V0 for improved flame retardancy and temperature resistance.
GORE® PolyVent Technology: Managing Pressure and Moisture
As temperatures and altitudes change, sealed housings experience pressure fluctuations that can draw in moisture and contaminants. GORE® PolyVent equalizes pressure via a microporous ePTFE membrane while blocking water and particulates—helping prevent condensation and protecting sensitive electronics.
Designed to Handle Every Season
- Weather-resistant gaskets and O-rings
- Venting solutions for outdoor enclosures
- Adhesives and tapes that maintain bond strength in cold temperatures
- Thermal interface materials to manage heat transfer in electronic systems
Our Applications Engineering team can recommend materials, thicknesses, and configurations to optimize sealing performance through the toughest winter conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What gasket materials work best below freezing?
Closed-cell silicone sponge performs reliably in sub-zero environments, maintaining flexibility and compression to keep moisture out.
How do I prevent condensation inside sealed enclosures?
Use pressure-equalizing vents (e.g., GORE® PolyVent) to let vapor escape while blocking liquid water and particulates.
Does PORON® foam take a compression set in the cold?
PORON® foams are engineered to resist compression set and rebound consistently, even after thermal cycling and vibration.
Can adhesives and tapes bond in cold temperatures?
Yes—choose cold-temperature formulations and prep surfaces properly (clean, dry, apply recommended pressure/time).
Should I switch materials seasonally?
Usually not. Choose materials with operating ranges that cover year-round conditions to minimize maintenance.
Stay Ahead of the Elements
Don’t let cold weather catch your equipment off guard. Sealing Devices offers a full range of materials and products engineered for seasonal durability—helping you protect systems and uptime.
Explore products built to handle the elements
Talk to Applications Engineering about your specific enclosure, environment, and standards.