Rubber Material Selection | Qualiform Rubber Resources

To achieve peak performance of the rubber compounds we manufacture involves determining the application and environment the part will be susceptible to. By asking a series of questions during the rubber material selection process our manufactures will have the information needed to correlated the best fitting compound to the parts requirements. Knowing the end-use of the application or function of the part is a key element during material selection. Here are a few routine questions we will ask:

Will the part be used for any of the following duties?

  • Transmit energy
  • Absorb energy
  • Transmit a fluid
  • Provide structural support
  • Seal a fluid

Will the part be exposed to any outdoor elements such as UV exposure that could affect its properties and/or color? And if so what will the time length and temperature of the exposure be?

Will the part be exposed to any of the following elements? And if so, what would be the time length of its exposure?

  • Acids
  • Bases
  • Oils
  • Others

Will the part be exposed to any natural or synthetic abrasive environments? What will the target cost of material be?

  • Material cost per pound?
  • Material cost per part?

Will the part be exposed to any vibration? If so will the part need to absorb this vibration? Will the part be exposed to any temperature requirements?

  • Maximum service temperature
  • Minimum service temperature
  • Constant use temperature
  • Length of exposure to different temperature extremes

Will the part need to be used to reduce noise as a sound dampener or deadener? Will the part need to meet any regulatory requirements such as but not limited to:

  • Flame retardant to UL or other agency standards?
  • Comply with FDA or NSF food or water contact?
  • Meet a specific automotive specification?
  • Comply with USP class VI for a medical device?

Will the part need to meet any physical property requirements such as but not limited to:

  • Tensile strength
  • Tensile elongation — need to stretch without breaking
  • Tensile stress
  • Hardness
  • Compression set (at temperature) — resistance to set under extensive load
  • Flexural modulus — resistance to deformation
  • Tensile set (at temperature)
  • Specific gravity target
  • Viscosity or melt flow requirements

Please note that not all of the above property requirements may apply to the application of your product. If you are unsure of any of the above questions simply let us know.  Our process is to gain information and the intended technical properties needed to determine the most effective material to design and manufacture your products. Here at Qualiform we only produce the best fitting, cost-effective, high-quality end product for our customers.

       

Factors Affecting Rubber Tolerances
Not sure which rubber materials and methods are best for you project? Contact Qualiform today to receive expert material recommendations.