Metal-Channel Strip Brushes & Brush Seals: How to Choose Channel, Backing & Filament

The four numbers that define a strip brush

• Channel material — galvanized steel (general), stainless (wet/corrosive/food), or aluminium (light, non-magnetic).
• Backing width — typically 3–10 mm; wider backing holds denser, taller filament.
• Filament height (trim length) — 5–180 mm; tall enough to bridge the gap with light overlap, not so tall it buckles.
• Filament material — nylon (durable, general), PP/PE (chemical/moisture), or steel (heat, static, heavy contact).

Match the brush to the job

For machine guarding and dust sealing, a straight metal-channel strip brush is configured from the four parameters above. For doors and weather sealing, a profile holder makes installation easier — for example the aluminium + nylon door brush weatherstrip (72 in, 16 mm pile) or a fin-base pile weatherstrip brush (8.7 / 16 / 19 mm pile heights) that slides into a window or sliding-door track.

Sizing the filament height

Measure the gap you need to close, then add a small overlap (typically 2–5 mm) so the brush stays in light contact as parts move or settle. Too little height leaves a leak path; too much causes the filament to fold over and lose sealing pressure.

Frequently asked questions

What filament height should a brush seal have?

Size it to the gap plus a small overlap (about 2–5 mm) so the tips stay in gentle contact. Strip brushes are available from 5 mm up to about 180 mm filament height.

Which channel material for a wet or food environment?

Stainless steel channel with nylon or PP filament resists corrosion and washdown. Galvanized steel is fine for dry general use; aluminium is chosen where light weight or non-magnetic properties matter.

Can strip brushes be made curved or in coils?

Yes — strip brush is made to order and can be supplied straight, cut to length, or formed into rings and spirals for rotary and conveyor applications.

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