A Comprehensive Guide to the Types of Rubber
Rubber is one of the most versatile materials used across multiple industries, from automotive and aerospace to construction, healthcare, and consumer goods. Whether used in tyres, seals, hoses, or footwear, rubber’s flexibility, durability, and resilience make it an indispensable material. There are two main categories of rubber: natural rubber, derived from plant latex, and synthetic rubber, made through chemical processes. Each type of rubber has unique properties that suit specific applications. This article explores the different types of rubber, their characteristics, and where they are commonly used.
Natural Rubber (NR)
Natural rubber is obtained from the latex sap of rubber trees, primarily Hevea brasiliensis. It is valued for its high elasticity, tensile strength, and resistance to wear and abrasion. Natural rubber is highly flexible, making it ideal for products that need to stretch, such as tyres, hoses, and rubber bands. It also offers excellent resistance to cold temperatures but is less resistant to heat and certain chemicals.
Common Applications
- Tyres and tubes
- Conveyor belts
- Shock absorbers
- Footwear
Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR)
SBR is one of the most widely used synthetic rubbers, offering good abrasion resistance and ageing stability when compounded with additives. SBR is often blended with natural rubber to enhance its durability and performance. While SBR doesn’t have the same elasticity as natural rubber, its affordability and general-purpose nature make it ideal for various applications, particularly in the automotive industry.
Common Applications
- Tyres and automotive parts
- Seals and gaskets
- Flooring and conveyor belts
Neoprene (CR)
Neoprene, also known as chloroprene rubber, is a synthetic rubber known for its resistance to oil, chemicals, weathering, and ozone. It maintains flexibility across several temperatures and is often used in industrial and marine applications. Neoprene is also highly resistant to damage from exposure to sunlight and oxidation, making it ideal for outdoor use.
Common Applications
- Wetsuits and diving gear
- Electrical insulation
- Hoses and belts
- Seals and gaskets
Nitrile Rubber (NBR)
Nitrile rubber, also known as Buna-N, is highly resistant to oils, fuels, and other chemicals, making it an ideal choice for use in environments where exposure to these substances is common. NBR is less flexible at low temperatures but offers good wear resistance, durability, and the ability to handle high-pressure environments.
Common Applications
- Fuel and oil hoses
- Seals and gaskets
- O-rings
- Gloves used in the medical and industrial fields
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
EPDM is a synthetic rubber known for its excellent weather resistance and ability to withstand extreme environmental conditions such as UV radiation, ozone, and varying temperatures. EPDM is often used in outdoor and automotive applications. It also offers good resistance to chemicals and ageing, though it is less resistant to oils and hydrocarbons.
Common Applications
- Roofing membranes
- Automotive seals and hoses
- Electrical insulation
- Garden hoses
Silicone Rubber (SiR)
Silicone rubber is prized for its flexibility, heat resistance, and non-reactive properties. It can withstand extreme hot and cold temperatures, making it ideal for applications where temperature fluctuations are typical. Silicone is also resistant to many chemicals and has excellent electrical insulating properties, making it popular in the medical, food, and electronics industries.
Common Applications
- Medical tubing and devices
- Baking moulds and kitchenware
- Electrical insulation
- Automotive seals
Butyl Rubber (IIR)
Butyl rubber is known for its exceptional air impermeability and resistance to gases, which is why it is commonly used in applications requiring airtight seals. Butyl rubber also offers excellent resistance to chemicals, ozone, and weathering. However, it has lower resilience than some other types of rubber.
Common Applications
- Inner tubes for tyres
- Seals and gaskets
- Pharmaceutical stoppers
- Adhesives and sealants
Fluoroelastomer (FKM)
Fluoroelastomers, often referred to by brand names such as Viton™, are synthetic rubbers with excellent resistance to heat, chemicals, and oils. They maintain their elasticity at high temperatures and are used in environments involving harsh chemicals or extreme conditions. They are also highly corrosion-resistant, making them ideal for critical sealing applications.
Common Applications
- Seals for high-temperature applications
- Automotive fuel systems
- Aerospace components
- Chemical processing equipment
Polyurethane Rubber (PU)
Polyurethane rubber is known for its exceptional abrasion resistance and toughness. It also offers excellent load-bearing capacity and flexibility. Polyurethane rubber can be moulded into complex shapes, making it versatile for various applications.
Common Applications
- Industrial wheels and rollers
- Protective coatings
- Seals and gaskets
- Foam insulation
Choosing the Right Type of Rubber for Your Needs
The type of rubber you choose depends largely on the specific requirements of your application. Factors such as chemical exposure, temperature ranges, flexibility, and durability all play a role in determining which type of rubber is best suited for the task. For example, nitrile rubber is ideal for applications involving oils and fuels, while EPDM is better for outdoor use due to its resistance to UV and weathering.
FAQs About Types of Rubber
What is the difference between natural and synthetic rubber?
Natural rubber is derived from the latex of rubber trees, while synthetic rubber is made through chemical processes. Synthetic rubbers often offer enhanced resistance to heat, chemicals, and wear, making them more suitable for certain industrial applications.
What type of rubber is best for oil resistance?
Nitrile rubber (NBR) is best for oil and fuel resistance, making it ideal for automotive and industrial applications involving oils, greases, and fuels.
Can rubber withstand extreme temperatures?
Yes, certain types of rubber, such as silicone rubber and fluoroelastomers, can withstand extreme temperatures. Silicone rubber, for example, can endure very high and low temperatures, making it suitable for use in the automotive and medical industries.
Which rubber is best for outdoor use?
EPDM is one of the best rubbers for outdoor use due to its excellent resistance to UV rays, ozone, and weathering. It is commonly used in roofing, automotive seals, and hoses.
How do I choose the right rubber for my application?
Choosing the right rubber depends on your application’s specific needs, including factors like temperature resistance, flexibility, chemical exposure, and durability. Consult with a rubber expert like Delta Rubber to determine the best type for your needs.
What are some common uses of natural rubber?
Natural rubber is commonly used to manufacture tyres, conveyor belts, rubber bands, and footwear due to its flexibility, strength, and elasticity.
Contact Delta Rubber for details
Working with a rubber supplier who understands the unique properties of each type of rubber is essential for ensuring the right material is selected for your project.
Contact our team today to learn more about the types of rubber we use and how we can help you meet your manufacturing needs.