Cork

Cork is a versatile natural sealing material prized for its excellent compressibility, vibration dampening, and thermal insulation properties. We stock pure cork sheet and cork/rubber composite grades. From general-purpose natural cork through to nitrile- and neoprene-bonded composites that add oil and solvent resistance for demanding automotive and industrial applications.

At a Glance

Temperature Range

-30 °C to +150 °C (cork/nitrile composites)

Thickness Range

0.8 mm to 20 mm

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Technical Properties

Typical values across stocked grades. Specific grade data sheets available on request.

Material TypeNatural cork sheet and cork/rubber composites
Temperature Range-30 °C to +150 °C (nitrile-bonded composites)
Density0.45–0.75 g/cm³ (grade dependent)
Compressibility25–50 % at 35 MPa (ASTM F36)
Recovery≥ 70 % (ASTM F36)
Compressive Strength10–25 MPa (ASTM D575)
Tensile Strength2–6 MPa (ASTM D412)
Water Absorption3–10 % by weight (pure cork); < 3 % (rubber-bonded, ASTM D570)
Oil ResistanceExcellent (nitrile-bonded grades); poor (natural cork)
Chemical ResistanceResistant to dilute acids, alkalis, and most refrigerants; not for ketones or strong solvents
Vibration DampeningExcellent. High coefficient of friction and energy absorption
Thickness Range Stocked0.8 mm to 20 mm

Common Applications

  • Sump and oil pan gaskets
  • Rocker cover and tappet cover gaskets
  • Vibration dampening pads and mounts
  • Expansion joint filler strips
  • Automotive transmission and gearbox gaskets
  • Thermal insulation pads and spacers
  • Light-duty industrial seals
  • Dust sealing and weather stripping
  • Electrical insulation backing

Available Grades

FH (Fine-Grain Natural Cork)

Fine-grain natural cork sheet offering traditional compressibility and resilience. Suited to low-pressure sealing, thermal insulation, and vibration dampening where oil resistance is not required.

TG70 (General-Purpose Cork/Rubber)

General-purpose cork/rubber composite providing a balance of compressibility and mechanical strength. A cost-effective option for light-duty gaskets and sealing applications.

MR31 (Neoprene-Bonded Cork)

Cork bonded with neoprene rubber for improved resilience, moderate oil resistance, and broader chemical compatibility. Our most popular grade for general industrial gaskets and expansion joints.

ACN60 (Nitrile-Bonded Cork)

Cork bonded with nitrile rubber for excellent oil, fuel, and solvent resistance. Widely specified for sump gaskets, rocker covers, and automotive sealing applications where hydrocarbon exposure is expected.

NP50 (Nitrile-Bonded Premium Cork)

Premium-grade nitrile-bonded cork composite offering superior oil resistance and tighter thickness tolerances. Specified for demanding automotive and industrial applications where consistent sealing performance is critical.

SCC120 (Speciality Cork Composite)

Speciality cork/rubber composite engineered for higher-performance sealing duties. Provides enhanced mechanical properties and improved resistance in challenging service conditions.

TD1120 (Heavy-Duty Cork Composite)

Heavy-duty cork/rubber composite for applications requiring increased load-bearing capacity and long-term resilience under sustained compression.

ATW1 (Cork Composite)

Versatile cork composite grade suited to a range of general industrial sealing and cushioning applications. Provides reliable compressibility and recovery characteristics.

Need Cork?

We supply cork in sheet, roll, and custom die-cut forms. Contact our team for pricing, data sheets, or technical assistance.

Disclaimer

This resource is provided for general engineering reference only and does not constitute professional advice, specification, or guarantee of performance. Actual results depend on specific application conditions. Universal Gaskets Pty Ltd accepts no responsibility or liability for decisions made based on this information. For full terms, see our Terms & Conditions.