When it comes to resilient, durable, and versatile materials, rubber sheets are a go-to choice across numerous industries. From sealing applications to protective linings, these sheets offer exceptional performance under a wide range of conditions. Our high-quality rubber sheets are engineered to meet rigorous standards, ensuring reliability and longevity. Whether you are in manufacturing, construction, or automotive sectors, understanding the specifications and benefits of our rubber sheets can help you make an informed decision for your projects.
To help you select the right rubber sheet for your needs, we have outlined the key parameters in the table below. These specifications are critical for ensuring compatibility with your operational requirements.
| Parameter | Description | Available Options / Range |
|---|---|---|
| Material Type | The base compound used in the rubber sheet, which determines its core properties. | Natural Rubber (NR), Neoprene (CR), Nitrile (NBR), EPDM, Silicone (VMQ), Butyl (IIR) |
| Hardness (Shore A) | Measures the resistance to indentation, indicating softness or firmness. | 30A to 90A |
| Tensile Strength | The maximum stress the material can withstand while being stretched. | Up to 3000 PSI |
| Elongation at Break | The percentage increase in length before the material breaks. | 100% to 700% |
| Thickness | The gauge of the sheet, critical for sealing and gasket applications. | 1/32" to 2" (0.8mm to 50mm) |
| Width | The standard width of the sheets as supplied. | 48" (1219mm) |
| Length | The standard length per roll or sheet. | 50 ft (15.24m) rolls or custom-cut sheets |
| Color | Available colors for identification or aesthetic purposes. | Black, White, Red, Blue, Green, Custom (upon request) |
| Temperature Range | The operational temperature limits the material can endure. | -60°F to 400°F (-51°C to 204°C), depending on material |
| Specific Gravity | Density relative to water, affecting weight and buoyancy. | 1.1 to 1.9 |
Different rubber materials offer unique advantages. Here is a quick guide:
| Material | Key Advantages | Ideal Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Rubber (NR) | High elasticity, excellent abrasion resistance, good tensile strength. | Tires, shock absorbers, conveyor belts. |
| Neoprene (CR) | Good weather, ozone, and flame resistance; moderate oil resistance. | Outdoor gaskets, wetsuits, hose covers. |
| Nitrile (NBR) | Superior resistance to oils, fuels, and chemicals; good compression set. | Fuel hoses, gaskets in oil environments, O-rings. |
| EPDM | Excellent weather and ozone resistance; good steam and water resistance. | Roofing membranes, automotive seals, radiator hoses. |
| Silicone (VMQ) | Wide temperature range, flexible at low temps, inert and non-toxic. | Food processing, medical devices, high-temperature gaskets. |
| Butyl (IIR) | Excellent air and gas impermeability, good vibration damping. | Inner tubes, pharmaceutical stoppers, pond liners. |
What are the main types of rubber sheets available?
The primary types include Natural Rubber (NR), Neoprene (CR), Nitrile (NBR), EPDM, Silicone (VMQ), and Butyl (IIR). Each type is formulated with specific properties to excel in different environments. For instance, Nitrile is renowned for its oil and fuel resistance, making it ideal for automotive and industrial sealing applications, while EPDM is preferred for outdoor use due to its excellent weather and ozone resistance.
How do I choose the right hardness for my application?
Hardness, measured on the Shore A scale, should be selected based on the required sealing pressure, flexibility, and compression. Softer sheets (lower Shore A, e.g., 30A-50A) are better for forming tight seals on irregular surfaces and for vibration damping. Harder sheets (higher Shore A, e.g., 70A-90A) offer greater resistance to extrusion and are suitable for high-pressure gaskets and heavy-duty abrasion applications.
What is the significance of tensile strength and elongation at break?
Tensile strength indicates how much pulling force the rubber sheet can withstand before tearing, which is crucial for dynamic applications like belts or expansion joints. Elongation at break measures how much the material can stretch before failure, indicating its flexibility and toughness. A high elongation percentage is often desirable for applications where the material needs to stretch and recover without cracking.
Can rubber sheets be customized in size and shape?
Yes, absolutely. Our rubber sheets can be custom-cut to specific dimensions, shapes, and profiles to meet your exact requirements. We offer die-cutting, laser cutting, and waterjet cutting services to ensure precise fabrication for gaskets, seals, pads, and other components. Simply provide your technical drawings or specifications.
How does temperature affect the performance of a rubber sheet?
Each rubber material has a specific operational temperature range. Exceeding this range can cause the material to become brittle at low temperatures or soften and degrade at high temperatures. For example, Silicone rubber can perform in extremes from -60°F to 400°F, whereas Natural Rubber has a narrower range and is not suitable for high-heat applications. Always check the temperature rating for your specific environment.
Are these rubber sheets resistant to chemicals and oils?
Chemical resistance varies significantly by material. Nitrile (NBR) rubber offers excellent resistance to oils, fuels, and many chemicals. Neoprene provides moderate oil and chemical resistance. For aggressive chemicals or specific fluids, it is essential to consult a chemical compatibility chart or contact our technical team to recommend the most suitable material for your exposure conditions.
What is the standard lead time for orders?
For standard sheet sizes and materials, we typically ship within 3-5 business days. Custom-cut orders may require additional time based on complexity and volume, generally 7-10 business days. Rush services are available for urgent projects; please inquire for specific timing.
How should I store rubber sheets to maintain their properties?
Store rubber sheets in a cool, dry, and dark place away from direct sunlight, ozone sources (like electric motors), and extreme temperatures. Keep them away from chemicals, oils, and solvents. Ideally, store them flat or on a roll to prevent permanent creasing or deformation. Proper storage can significantly extend the shelf life of the material.
Do you offer technical support for material selection?
Yes, we have a dedicated technical support team with extensive experience in rubber material science. We can assist you in selecting the optimal material based on your application requirements, including exposure to environmental factors, mechanical stresses, and regulatory standards. Feel free to provide your application details for a personalized recommendation.
