The defense industry relies on high-performance rubber components with the ability to maintain functionality in harsh environments. These military rubber components must be certified by the military specifications (Mil-Spec) that govern their respective end applications. The U.S. Department of Defense developed Mil-Spec standards to determine whether various materials have sufficient properties for defense applications. For example, there are Mil-Spec standards for temperature resistance, physical strength, and flame resistance, among other properties.
Learn more about the importance of Mil-Spec compliance, the Mil-Spec standards for rubber materials, and common applications for Mil-Spec rubber products.
Compliance With Military Specifications
The Department of Defense put Mil-Spec standards in place for various processes, materials, and products applicable to the military and defense industry, with the goal of standardization. These standards also extend to collaborative efforts between the U.S. government and allies and aim to restrict the variety of products in the military’s inventory.
To facilitate cooperation and adherence to industry standards, the Department of Defense has a specific database called the Acquisition Streamlining and Standardization Information System (ASSIST). This database keeps track of all relevant documentation around standardization under the military and federal government, along with certain types of non-government standards (NGSs) and International Standardization Agreements (ISAs). Using this database and its documentation, the U.S. military and its allies can work together to address evolving security concerns and succeed in missions.
The Types of Standardization Documents
There are several types of standardization documents within the ASSIST, including:
- Consensus procedure-dictated handbooks, standards, and specifications for defense applications
- Federal standards and commercial item descriptions (CIDs) adhering to the Federal Standardization Manual’s consensus procedures
- Material ISAs developed by NATO and other international security bodies and approved by the U.S.
- NGSs adhering to consensus procedures of various private sector organizations
Key Properties of Mil-Spec Rubber Materials
Rubber gaskets and other rubber materials must meet Mil-Spec requirements for performance. If these components meet these standards, the Department of Defense and other defense contractors deem them suitable for use in extreme conditions. Tier 1 and Tier 2 defense suppliers are familiar with Mil-Spec, but some specifications may have unique implications on their manufacturing and purchasing practices.
Some of the specific Mil-Spec standards that apply to rubber materials include the following: