MIL-R-6855

MIL-R-6855 is a military specification for synthetic rubbers in a variety of shapes and used for a wide variety of applications by all departments and agencies of the US Department of Defense. More specifically, MIL-R-6855 covers low-temperature-resistant rubber sheets, strips, and molded and extruded shapes. MIL-R-6855 does not cover polyurethanes.

Rubber materials covered by MIL-R-6855 are categorized into five classes and a number of subtypes:

• Class 1: Resistant to fuel and petroleum
• Class 2: Resistant to petroleum oil, weather, and ozone
  • Type A: High ozone concentration
  • Type B: Low ozone concentration
• Class 3: Not resistant to oil
• Class 4: Resistant to petroleum oil, weather, and ozone; for use in contact with acrylic and polycarbonate plastics
  • Type A: High ozone concentration
  • Type B: Low ozone concentration.
• Class 5: Not resistant to oil; for use in contact with acrylic and polycarbonate plastics.

MIL-R-6855 lists dimensional tolerances for sheets, strips, tubing, and rods. The spec includes references to the appropriate tests for determining the material’s physical and mechanical property requirements, including ozone resistance, crazing, low temperature resistance, cold bend, color, and shelf life. Instructions are also included for appropriate identification markings for different material shapes and forms.

How Smithers Supports MIL-R-6855

Smithers provides independent testing and technical assessment for elastomer materials used in demanding defense applications. Our specialists support material qualification, fluid compatibility assessment, environmental durability evaluation, and bespoke testing programs aligned with MIL-R-6855 and application-specific requirements. 

Explore our Defense Materials and Qualification capabilities to learn more. 

MIL-R-6855 is a comprehensive specification for synthetic rubber materials used across a wide range of defense applications and service environments.