Foreign object contamination is one of the most serious risks in food, drink, and pharmaceutical manufacturing. Even small fragments of rubber from worn seals or gaskets can lead to costly downtime, product recalls, and reputational damage. At Stephens Gaskets, we manufacture metal detectable rubber seals and gaskets designed to significantly reduce contamination risk and improve production line safety.
With over 70 years of experience manufacturing precision rubber components, we support food-safe operations by combining compliant materials with practical manufacturing expertise.
Why Rubber Contamination Happens in Food Production
Modern food and pharmaceutical processing relies heavily on machinery containing rubber components such as seals, gaskets, and washers. Over time, these components are exposed to:
- Continuous vibration.
- Extreme or fluctuating temperatures.
- Cleaning chemicals and sanitising agents.
- Mechanical wear.
As rubber degrades, small particles can break away and enter the production stream. If undetected, this can result in contaminated products reaching the supply chain.
What Is Metal Detectable Rubber?
Metal detectable rubber is a specially formulated elastomer containing detectable additives that allow even small rubber fragments to be identified by standard metal detection systems.
If particles break away during production:
- Metal detectors identify the contamination immediately.
- Affected products can be isolated.
- Production can be stopped quickly.
- Maintenance can be carried out before further contamination occurs.
This rapid detection dramatically reduces the risk of large-scale product recalls.
Benefits of Metal Detectable Rubber Seals
Metal detectable rubber seals offer a proactive approach to contamination control.
Key benefits include:
- Early detection of rubber fragments.
- Reduced risk of product recalls.
- Minimal production downtime.
- Lower levels of product wastage.
- Improved compliance with food safety standards.
Rather than relying solely on visual inspections, manufacturers gain an additional layer of protection built directly into their components.
Applications for Metal Detectable Rubber Seals
Metal detectable rubber components are widely used in hygiene-critical environments.
Typical applications include:
- Food and drink processing equipment.
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing lines.
- Packaging and filling machinery.
- Conveyor systems and handling equipment.
These seals are commonly manufactured from metal detectable silicone or metal detectable nitrile, depending on chemical exposure and temperature requirements.
Metal Detectable Rubber Manufacturing at Stephens Gaskets
Stephens Gaskets manufactures metal detectable rubber seals and gaskets to customer specifications. Material grade, hardness, thickness, and profile are selected to suit the operating environment and detection requirements.
Our in-house manufacturing capability allows us to:
- Produce bespoke seal and gasket designs.
- Maintain consistent quality across batches.
- Support both low-volume and high-volume production.
All components are manufactured under ISO 9001-certified quality systems.
Why Choose Stephens Gaskets for Metal Detectable Rubber Seals?
Customers choose Stephens Gaskets because we understand both manufacturing realities and food safety risks.
Working with us gives you:
- Experienced food-safe rubber component specialists.
- Metal detectable silicone and nitrile options.
- Bespoke seal and gasket manufacturing.
- Reliable UK-based supply.
- Technical support during specification and production.
We support customers across food, drink, pharmaceutical, and hygiene-critical industries.
FAQs
1. What is metal detectable rubber used for?
Metal detectable rubber is used in seals and gaskets for food, drink, and pharmaceutical machinery to allow rubber fragments to be detected by metal detectors before products leave the factory.
2. Does metal detectable rubber reduce product recalls?
Yes. Early detection allows contaminated products to be isolated quickly, significantly reducing the risk and scale of recalls.
3. What materials are available in metal detectable rubber?
Metal detectable rubber is commonly available in silicone and nitrile compounds, selected based on temperature and chemical resistance requirements.
4. Can Stephens Gaskets manufacture custom metal detectable seals?
Yes. We manufacture bespoke metal detectable rubber seals and gaskets to custom sizes, profiles, and material specifications.
5. How do I request a quote for metal detectable rubber seals?
To request a quote, contact Stephens Gaskets with your component drawings, quantities, and application details. Our team will provide expert guidance and a tailored quotation.
Speak to a Food Safety Sealing Specialist
If you are looking to reduce food contamination risk with metal detectable rubber seals, speak directly with Stephens Gaskets.
Our specialists will help you specify and manufacture a solution that protects both your products and your reputation.
Contact Our Team
Phone: +44 (0)121 544 5808
Email: sales@stephensgaskets.co.uk to discuss your requirements.
Visit Our Website
Address: Stephens Gaskets Ltd, 19 Hainge Road, Tividale, Oldbury, West Midlands B69 2NR.