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Types and Applications of Industrial Rubber Sheets
Rubber sheeting is made from either natural or synthetic rubber. Synthetic rubbers are engineered to have very specific qualities, making them ideal for various industrial applications. Learn more about which type of rubber is best for which application below and use the comparison chart to find the right rubber sheeting for your needs.
Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR)
SBR is an excellent general purpose rubber which makes it suitable for a wide range of applications. Its properties are similar to natural rubber, but it is more resistant to abrasion, wear and water. It is a low-cost material that is ideal for creating waterproof rubber gaskets, seals and tubing. It provides good heat resistance and heat-aging qualities and is resistant to dilute chemicals; however, it is not recommended to use SBR in applications involving strong acids, oils, greases, fats and ozone. For increased tensile strength and tear resistance, SBR with an embedded textile reinforcement is available.
EPDM Rubber
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) is a rubber that provides excellent resistance to ozone, oxidants and harsh weather conditions. These properties make it ideal for general outdoor use and for environmental exposure applications. It will not crack or discolour when exposed to UV rays or ozone and it is ideal for use across a wide range of applications, including: Waterproofing, insulating, sealing roofing and electrical cable jointing among other uses. It is also very popular for use in gaskets and seals within industrial settings.
Nitrile Rubber (NBR)
Nitrile rubber is one of the most widely used synthetic rubbers in the world. It has excellent resistance to oils, fuels, petroleum and most solvents, making it ideal for use in areas where natural and synthetic greases are present. In addition, it also provides effective resistance to abrasion, heat, water and gas. Nitrile rubber is a very versatile material due to its strong resistances, which make it a popular solution in the oil and gas industry, for food processing and in the automotive field. Possible applications include pads, seals and gaskets.
Chloroprene Rubber (Neoprene Rubber)
Chloroprene rubber, better known as neoprene rubber, is a very versatile all-rounder rubber with a good balance of properties. It provides resistance to mineral oils, greases, dilute acids and alkalis. Its superb ageing and weathering properties make neoprene suitable for outdoor applications. While neoprene is often used for industrial seals, hoses and gaskets, it is equally popular for use in commercial kitchens and for marine applications, such as wetsuit manufacture. Due to its all-round solid qualities, neoprene is a popular solution for protecting against liquids, chemicals, high temperatures and UV rays.
Natural Rubber
Natural rubber is made from the latex of rubber trees. It is extremely flexible and durable, providing a high tear strength and excellent resilience but it should not be exposed to oils, solvents or ozone. Applications for use include: Shock mounts, gaskets, seals, hoses and tubing. Due to its excellent resistance to abrasion and wear, it is also ideal for use as protective screening for shotblasting.
Our range of rubber sheeting is available in various levels of thickness and standard sizes as well as custom lengths. Find the right rubber sheeting for your required application with the handy table below.
If you have any queries or questions, please feel free to get in touch with our expert product advisors on 08082397985 or [email protected].