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Introduction: dynamic sealing, a strategic industrial challenge

In many highly demanding industries — whether agri-food, nuclear, space or pharmaceutical — the question ofdynamic sealing is central. When mechanical constraints prevent the use of conventional static seals, a solution is required: The inflatable joint, also called pneumatic seal.

Designed to adapt to its environment by inflation, this type of joint ensures total hermetic insulation Faced with liquids, gasses or dusts. However, very few players in Europe really master its design and manufacture.

Chez PROGRESS Silicones, this expertise has been at the heart of our know-how for over 30 years. In this article, we offer you a complete overview of silicone inflatable seals, from their characteristics to their fields of application, including the stages of their manufacture.

What is an inflatable (or pneumatic) joint?

One inflatable joint is a sealing device made of silicone or in other elastomeric materials, capable of change shape by inflating or deflating through a integrated valve.

Unlike conventional seals, which ensure a seal by permanent compression, inflatable seals are dynamics : they remain flexible when deflated and only take on their waterproof form when needed. This allows:

• One easy installation, even in hard-to-reach areas
• A reduction in mechanical friction when opening/closing
• One precise adaptation to the geometry of the environment

Why silicone?

The silicone is particularly suitable for inflatable joints because it combines:

• Long-lasting elasticity
• Resistance to extreme temperatures
• Chemical inertia, compatible with sensitive environments
• Easy moulding or extrusion for custom geometries

The technical advantages of silicone inflatable seals

Here are the key benefits of this technical sealing solution:

1. Total hermetic tightness

The main purpose of the inflatable joint is to guarantee a complete insulation. It blocks the passage of:

• Liquids (water, solvents, chemical products)
• Gaz (air, CO₂, technical gases)
• Particles (dust, contaminants, bacteria)

It is therefore essential in environments requiring a strict hygiene, a maximum security Or a protection against contamination.

2. Adaptability to the geometry of the equipment

Thanks to his flexibility in the rest position, the inflatable seal adapts to complex shapes, including mobile or irregular interfaces.

Once inflated, it comes fill the space accurately, ensuring perfect tightness even on assemblies that are not rigid or subject to movement.

3. Resistance to extreme environments

Silicone is resistant to:

• At temperatures ranging from -60°C to +200°C
• To aggressive chemicals
• To humidity, UV and ozone

This makes the gaskets inflatable reliable in tough environments : sterile chambers, industrial furnaces, washing tunnels, pressurized airlocks, etc.

4. Automation and security

By activating via a valve (manual or automated), the inflatable joint allows:

• One secure closure (without mechanical effort)
• One integration into automated systems
• A reduction in risks for operators during handling

Industrial applications of inflatable seals

Les pneumatic seals are used in numerous strategic sectors where watertightness and safety are non-negotiable.

Medical, pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries

Sterile chambers, insulators and production equipment medical or pharmaceutical require joints that guarantee an absolute barrier against particles or pathogens. Inflatable silicone gaskets fit perfectly into containment systems.

Agri-food

In the lines of food production, hygiene requirements impose a flawless tightness. Since silicone is compatible with FDA and CE 1935/2004 standards, it allows use in door closing systems, hatches and conveyors.

Nuclear and energy

In the nuclear sector, inflatable seals are used in Containment lock, decontamination equipment or pressure installations. They guarantee a waterproof barrier against radioactive substances or gases under pressure.

Aeronautics and space

In Aeronautics, Pressurized capsules, modules, and systems use inflatable seals to ensure insulation between compartments And the operator safety during the testing or assembly phases.

Transport

In the transport sectors, some specialized vehicles (subways, secure cars) require dynamic seals to ensure the tightness of doors and hatches, which are often subject to vibrations and aggressive environments.

PROGRESS Silicones: complete control of manufacturing

At PROGRESS Silicones, our strength lies in our global control of the production chain, of the designing To the custom confection, going through Theextrusion And theintegration of valves.

1. Custom design

We support our customers from the design phase, by defining the:

• Optimal dimensions
• Types of silicone according to constraints (temperature, chemistry)
• Anchoring or fixing methods
• Recommended operating pressures

2. Extrusion and moulding

Our workshop integrates lines ofExtrusion silicone allowing the production of perfectly regular profiles, as well as molding presses for complex or hybrid shapes.

3. Confection

The joint is then assembled, vulcanized, cut or closed, according to the requirements of the application (O-ring, U-joint, frame, etc.).

4. Valve integration

Finally, we ensure theintegration of valves compatible with your pneumatic systems. The objective: a perfect joint reactivity, safely.

Why trust PROGRESS Silicones?

✅ Over 30 years of experience in the processing of technical silicone
✅ One integrated R&D team, capable of innovating to meet specific needs
✅ One Rare mastery in Europe complex inflatable joints
✅ One 100% in-house production, in France
✅ Active listening to the specific industrial needs of each sector

We collaborate with leading players, in sectors where reliability, traceability and technical performance are unavoidable.

Towards continuous innovation

Les silicone inflatable seals are the subject of a growing demand in industry. Developments in automation, robotics and security impose new requirements that we anticipate thanks to:

• Tests of new silicone mixtures
• Durability tests in real conditions

Our ambition: pushing the boundaries of dynamic sealing.

Conclusion: a technical solution with high added value

Inflatable seals are much more than a sealing component. Today they are a key solution in the design of reliable, adaptive and safe industrial systems. Thanks to their flexibility, durability and performance, they stand out in all demanding environments.

Chez PROGRESS Silicones, we put all our expertise at the service of your specific applications. We don't just make gaskets: we design tailor-made technical solutions, as close as possible to your industrial needs.

Do you have a project involving inflatable joints? Let's talk about it.

🔹 Contact our technical teams for a personalized study.
🔹 Or discover all of our high performance silicone solutions on our site.

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