The various types of rubber that are used today have their unique characteristics. They range from natural to synthetic and can be selected depending on the applications they are being used for. Choosing the correct rubber type is essential to ensure that the final product will perform well.
The latex of tropical and subtropical trees is what produces natural rubber, and the milky fluid latex is then processed into usable material. Natural rubber properties include high tear and tensile strength, water resistance, and elasticity. It is often used for sealing, automotive gaskets, refrigeration seals, engine coolants, and chemical tank linings.
Another type of rubber that is used for a variety of applications is silicone rubber. This product is used in various consumer products such as automobiles, computers, and appliances. Silicone rubber is also used in the aerospace industry. Despite its versatility, it is expensive. Because of its durability, it is often used in industrial applications such as construction.
Synthetic rubber, on the other hand, is created by synthesising petroleum products and other polymers, and these materials are then polymerized to form the elastomers used in rubber. Compared to natural rubber, synthetic rubber has higher tensile and abrasion strength and resists chemicals.
In addition to its strength and elasticity, rubber can withstand a wide range of temperatures. Polyurethane is a type of rubber that can withstand temperatures as low as 140 Fahrenheit and as high as 400 Fahrenheit. A typical application for polyurethane is in durable elastomeric wheels. Other uses of polyurethane are electrical potting compounds and elastomeric tyres.
On the other hand, chloroprene rubber is oil resistant, and the material is commonly referred to as Neoprene. Compared to natural rubber, it is less flexible and has lower abrasion resistance. But, its electrical and thermal resistance makes it an ideal material for fuel system components in the aerospace industry. For more information on Rubber Moulding UK, go to Meadex, a supplier of Rubber Moulding UK.
Styrene butadiene rubber, on the other hand, is an inexpensive all-purpose rubber. Although it has a low compression set, it has excellent abrasion and tear resistance. Additionally, it has superior ageing and heat-ageing properties. Besides being used for various applications, this material is commonly used in the soles of shoes. However, it does not withstand flames and is prone to weathering.
Natural rubber is also available in the vulcanised form. Rubber vulcanisation involves joining the rubber polymer molecules to create a long chain. It is also used for sealing and weather stripping and is often combined with other polymers to produce different rubber sheets.
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