Are you looking for rubber extrusion profiles that offer reliable sealing and impact resistance? Rubber U channels may be the ideal solution for your application. Here at Qualiform, we manufacture a full range of rubber extrusion profiles. You can rely on us to develop rubber profiles that are tailored to your specific quality and performance requirements.
However, every rubber extrusion profile has its own set of uses and advantages. Read below to learn more about whether a rubber U channel is the right choice for your next project.
What is a Rubber U Channel?
Rubber U channels are versatile extrusion profiles that offer effective sealing and various resistance properties. They are also referred to as rubber U profile edging, U trim profiles, and U profile seals.
These products are most often manufactured with EPDM, neoprene, and TPE rubber compounds due to their superior flexibility and tear and impact resistance. As a result, they can withstand repetitive use in intense application environments.
Applications for extruded rubber U channels include edge protection, door seals, and decorative trim. Most notably, rubber extrusion U profiles protect the edges of glass and sheet metal, protecting them from drops and impacts. More importantly, they protect anyone carrying the glass or metal from potential injuries from the sharp edges.
These profiles are incredibly easy to install. They do not require any adhesive for application, so you can simply slide the U profile over the edge you are trying to protect or seal. This makes them easy to reuse for different tasks or projects.
Standard Rubber Compounds for U Profile Extrusions
EPDM Rubber
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) is a uniquely versatile, lightweight synthetic rubber that can be found in all types of extruded rubber profiles. The closed-cell nature of the compound makes it an ideal sealing material, and its exceptional weathering resistances make it applicable in a wide range of environments. In fact, it can even resist many corrosive chemicals.
However, this compound cannot be used in environments where it can come into contact with oils, gases, and fuels or in food-based applications.
Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE)
Thermoplastic elastomers are a class of copolymers manufactured with rubber and plastic polymers, so it combines advantages from both materials. In fact, its plastic element makes it much more recyclable than other rubber extrusion compounds.
The central benefit of utilizing TPE for rubber U channels is its flexibility. This material can be stretched to twice its initial length and return to its original shape once released. As a result, they are an ideal choice for sealing and decorative trim.
Neoprene Rubber
Neoprene, also known as Polychloroprene (CR), is a rubber compound that offers a wide range of resistances. It greatly outperforms other compounds in terms of abrasion resistance, protecting from oil, petroleum, UV, ozone, fire, and various chemicals. In fact, you can find neoprene in products like automotive fan belts that are subject to high temperatures, impacts, and abrasions on a frequent basis. As a result, it is the ideal choice as an edging and outdoor sealing for rubber U channels.
Which Compound is Best for Your Application?
Choosing between rubber compounds for your U channel profiles is a nuanced process. It requires the consideration of factors such as application environment, resistances, flexibility, temperature range, and much more.
EPDM may seem like the best choice due to its versatility and various resistances. However, if your application involves oils and gases, you will be wasting your time and money on a product that will not perform how you need it to.
If you are looking for rubber U channels or other extruded rubber profiles, consider consulting with a reputable manufacturer. Here at Qualiform, our technical staff is equipped to answer your questions and offer professional material recommendations according to your specific application environment.
Why Choose Qualiform Rubber Molding?
If you have been searching for a custom rubber extrusions provide, you will have encountered several companies claiming to offer the best products on the market. However, Qualiform Rubber Molding distinguishes itself from the competition with full certification to ISO 9001:2015. We are a proven manufacturer of reliable products for a wider range of industries. Whether you work in agriculture or aerospace, we can develop the rubber component solutions you need.
From the early design phases to final production, we will work by your side to ensure your rubber extrusion profiles are tailored to your needs. Once we have a full understanding of your industry and application, we can adapt our rubber extrusion process to create the ideal product and satisfy all your performance requirements.
As a leading provider of rubber extrusions, we prioritize quality, precision, and uniformity along with attentive customer service for every project. In fact, our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility operates on a 3-shift/24-hour schedule. We can always work within your schedule while offering quick lead times, competitive pricing, and on-time delivery.
Contact Qualiform today to learn more about or rubber U channel products or other rubber molding services and start planning your next project!
