When engineers specify silicone sponge for aerospace, defense, or high-reliability commercial applications, the most common callouts are AMS-3195 and AMS-3196. These long-standing SAE Aerospace Material Specifications define the performance of closed-cell silicone sponge rubber for gaskets, seals, vibration dampening, and thermal barriers.
AMS-3195 — Medium Density Closed-Cell Silicone Sponge
AMS-3195 covers a medium-density closed-cell silicone sponge that stays flexible from extremely low to high temperatures (roughly –75 °C to +205 °C). It’s designed for general gasketing and sealing where moderate compressive force is ideal.
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Compression behavior (typical):
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~15% compression at 8 psi
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~30% compression at 15 psi
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~45% compression at 22 psi
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~60% compression at 35 psi
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This easier-to-compress behavior makes medium density a great choice for lighter closures, irregular surfaces, and designs where hardware torque is limited.
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Materials meeting AMS-3195:
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R10470M / R-10470-M silicone sponge
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R10480M/ R-10480-M silicone sponge
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R10460/ R10460M/ R-10460-M silicone sponge
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Common applications:
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Door and panel gaskets in aircraft and rail interiors
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Environmental seals on electrical enclosures and control boxes
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HVAC and lighting gaskets needing weather and UV resistance
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General vibration isolation pads
AMS-3196 — Firm Density Closed-Cell Silicone Sponge
AMS-3196 defines a firm-density closed-cell silicone sponge with higher compression-deflection and better dimensional stability.
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Compression behavior (typical):
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~15% compression at 10 psi
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~30% compression at 20 psi
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~45% compression at 55 psi
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This firmer response provides stronger rebound, improved set resistance, and better stability when clamping forces are available.
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Materials meeting AMS-3196:
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R10470-F / R-10470-F silicone sponge
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Common applications:
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Engine compartment and firewall gaskets where clamp load is higher
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Seals for access panels, service doors, and aircraft nacelles
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Thermal and vibration isolation pads under heavy hardware
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High-performance sealing in outdoor or wide temperature environments
Selecting the Right Compression for Sealing
For most gasketed assemblies, aiming for 30–50% compression is recommended. This range balances low leak paths with good material recovery and avoids excessive stress on mating hardware.
Why “Closed-Cell” Matters
Closed-cell silicone sponge means the internal cells are sealed, not interconnected. This delivers:
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Low water absorption and excellent moisture barrier properties
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Stable mechanical and thermal behavior across temperature extremes
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Lightweight yet supportive for long-lasting gaskets and seals
Converting & Custom Cutting
At NEDC, we convert AMS-grade silicone sponge into precision-cut gaskets and seals. Our capabilities include:
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Die cutting for cost-efficient, high-volume runs
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Waterjet and knife cutting for thick, complex shapes
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Laser cutting for intricate prototypes and low-volume needs
We maintain material traceability and supply full lot certifications, ensuring your parts ship with the correct AMS callout and quality documentation.