Rubber molding is a manufacturing process used across many industries dealing with various products. Different applications demand different properties, such as durability, flexibility, and resistance to chemicals or extreme temperatures. The type of rubber used for different molding purposes determines the success of the manufacturing. Here are some types of rubber used in molding:
Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR)
SBR is a synthetic rubber derived from styrene and butadiene. Manufacturers often use SBR as a low-cost substitute for natural rubber. This rubber type exhibits similar properties to natural rubber in terms of elasticity and flexibility. It also offers high-impact strength and good abrasion resistance. These features make it ideal for high-strength rubber applications, such as cable insulation, hydraulic brake seals, car tires, and automotive parts.
Natural Rubber
Natural rubber, derived from the latex of the Hevea Brasiliensis tree or other latex-producing plants, is the oldest type of rubber. Despite the formulation of many synthetic rubbers, natural rubber is a common rubber molding material in many industries. The properties of natural rubber can vary depending on its formulation and processing. It offers durability, ozone sunlight resistance, and water and chemical damage resistance. Some properties include tensile strength and resistance to abrasion.
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) is a type of rubber that possesses exceptional resistance to weathering, ozone, and UV radiation. It retains its properties over a wide temperature range, making it suitable for outdoor applications such as seals, gaskets, and roofing materials. EPDM also exhibits resistance to damage by acids, coolant, and steam. These properties make EPDM rubber the preferred choice in automotive cooling systems and electrical insulation.
Nitrile Rubber
Nitrile rubber is a synthetic copolymer, and its material can resist corrosion caused by oil, fuel, and other chemicals. These properties make it ideal for automotive, aerospace, and oil applications. This rubber maintains its stability at varying temperatures and has high tensile strength, which adds to its functionality. Manufacturers use nitrile in molding applications for making seals, gaskets, O-rings, and hoses that come into contact with oils and fuels. It’s also resilient in its shape and can remain flexible at low temperatures.
Neoprene Rubber
This combination of polymers, such as chlorine, carbon, and hydrogen polymers, helps make this rubber resistant. It can also resist oxidative degeneration, oil, grease, and ozone damage. Neoprene is also resistant to damage from water, heat, and solvents. This rubber is the preferred material for molding applications requiring resistance to harsh environmental conditions. Manufacturers may use neoprene to make refrigeration seals, engine coolants, and automotive gaskets. This material also works well on linings for petroleum and chemical tanks due to its resistance to chemical damage.
Get the Right Rubber Molding Products
Selecting the appropriate rubber molding products is necessary to achieve the desired results and performance when manufacturing rubber. When purchasing rubber, it helps to consult a rubber supplier for recommendations on the best products for your needs. Your supplier can tell whether SBR, natural rubber, EPDM, nitrile, neoprene, or other rubber types fit your needs best.
