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Rubber Moulding

Introduction

This article contains all the information you need to know about rubber moulding.

You will learn more about topics such as:

  • What is Rubber Moulding?
  • Types of Rubber Moulding
  • How Rubber Moulding is Made
  • Advantages of Rubber Moulding
  • And much more…

Chapter One – What is Rubber Moulding?

Rubber moulding is the process of converting uncured rubber or elastomer into a finished product by transferring, compressing, or injecting the raw rubber material into a metal mould cavity. Applying pressure and heat initiates a chemical reaction, such as curing or vulcanization, which causes the polymer chains in the rubber to cross-link and solidify.

All rubber manufacturers utilize heat and pressure in their production processes. The most common rubber molding methods are injection molding, compression molding, and transfer molding. As products continue to evolve, rubber mold producers are constantly adapting to meet the increasing demand for grommets, gaskets, o-rings, and seals.

Chapter Two – Uses for Rubber Moulding

Both synthetic and natural rubber can be moulded into complex forms and shapes, significantly expanding its versatility. Its flexibility and durability allow engineers to design effective seals and cushioning components. Rubber’s stability makes it ideal for cushioning machinery, helping to reduce impact and vibrations.

Although natural rubber remains widely used, manufacturers have developed synthetic alternatives that offer comparable strength with enhanced durability and longevity. Materials such as neoprene, silicone, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), and various elastomers provide similar properties to natural rubber but with increased flexibility and endurance.

Rubber Bumpers

Rubber bumpers are available in various shapes and sizes, including recessed, mushroom, stem, grommet, and tack bumpers, to suit different manufacturing needs. These bumpers help reduce vibration and movement in equipment, protecting rigid parts from damage caused by impacts and vibrations. They are used to safeguard furniture, work surfaces, circuit boards, displays, and packaging.

The materials used to produce bumpers include a range of polymers, which are blends of rubber and plastics. These combinations are chosen to provide the desired balance of flexibility, durability, and impact resistance.
On the other hand, the chain scission process occurs in rubber compounds formed through polymerization. This process gradually degrades and softens the rubber material. Polymerization involves the bonding of multiple monomers to create a polymer. Isoprene and natural rubbers are polymers; hence they are more susceptible to chain scission.

It is important to note that polymers like EPDM can also undergo chain scission and cross-linking. Nevertheless, because cross-linking reactions are more dominant, there is a higher chance of the polymer hardening over time.

Rubber Bushings

Rubber bushings, similar to rubber bumpers, are designed to absorb vibrations and impacts in machinery. While they can be shaped for specific applications, the most common form is cylindrical. Rubber bushings are used to reduce vibrations within a machine or between two pieces of equipment, preventing the transfer of vibrations. They are particularly prevalent in automobiles, trucks, bicycles, and motorcycles, where they help mitigate the excessive vibrations caused by uneven road surfaces.

Rubber Grommets

Rubber grommets are rings used around metal openings to protect objects or materials that pass through these openings. Commonly used for wiring passages, grommets are made from synthetic or natural rubber and produced through various molding techniques. They prevent electrical cables from being damaged by metal edges, which could otherwise lead to abrasions and short circuits. By protecting the wiring, rubber grommets help ensure the longevity and safety of electrical systems.

Rubber Isolators

Rubber vibration isolators are designed to protect machines and appliances from vibration damage while keeping them stable and level. This category includes mounts, leveling pads, bumpers, shock mounts, and bushings. Effective vibration control is crucial for equipment operation, as uncontrolled vibrations can cause equipment malfunction, poor-quality products, and excessive wear on machine components. A typical application of isolators is in residential air conditioning units, where they help reduce operational noise.

Rubber Mounts

Rubber mounts are closely related to isolators and consist of two main components: the fastening mechanism and the isolator. The fastening mechanism is typically a threaded metal part, while the isolator is made from synthetic or natural rubber. Like isolators, rubber mounts are used to control vibrations that could potentially damage equipment. They come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and designs, with many being custom-made to suit specific applications.

Cylindrical mounts are commonly used as supports for conveying lines and transfer equipment, while other types serve as supports for tabletop equipment like computers and printers. The straightforward design of rubber mounts facilitates easy installation and maintenance. The metal threads are engineered for quick attachment to the supported device, ensuring both stability and protection.

Rubber Seals

Rubber seals are used to close gaps, insulate spaces from water or liquids, and protect surfaces. Because sealing is crucial across a wide range of equipment and processes, rubber seals are highly customizable and can be adapted for various applications. They are particularly important in processes involving pressurized liquids or gases. Rubber seals can come in forms such as gels, films, putties, or strips and can adhere to materials like glass, ceramics, concrete, paper, and other porous surfaces.

Rubber Suction Cups

Rubber suction or vacuum cups are employed as handling systems for manipulating items with flat surfaces, such as glass, metal sheets, wood paneling, molded pieces, or tubes. Available in various sizes, shapes, diameters, and types of rubber materials, these cups are designed to provide effective grip and control during the handling process.

There are two main types of suction cups: flat and bellows. Flat rubber suction cups are designed for use with smooth, flat surfaces. In contrast, bellows suction cups are suited for handling irregular surfaces, such as vehicle panels, tubes, and various molded products. Bellows suction cups offer greater adaptability and versatility compared to flat suction cups.

Rubber Washers

Rubber washers are flat disks with a central hole, designed to distribute loads, serve as spacers, function as wear pads, lock seals, or reduce vibrations. The dimensions of a rubber washer are defined by its outer diameter (OD) and inner diameter (ID), which are tailored to the specific application of the washer.

When used for pipe connections, rubber washers typically prevent leaks and secure the joint or connection. Their ability to form a tight seal makes them suitable for various conditions, ensuring reliable and leak-proof performance.

Rubber O-Rings

Rubber O-rings are circular rubber seals designed to prevent leaks of lubricants, liquids, and gases from mechanical devices. They are commonly used to seal gas lines, chemical feeding lines, and various connections. O-rings are essential in industries such as aerospace, hydraulics, pneumatics, vacuum flow systems, and petrochemical piping, where they provide reliable sealing and leak prevention.

When selecting an O-ring, it is crucial to consider the maximum pressure it will need to withstand. O-rings are designed to compress naturally between two surfaces to prevent air and fluid leaks. If subjected to pressures beyond their design specifications, O-rings are likely to fail, compromising the seal and potentially causing leaks.

O-rings are manufactured from various elastomers, such as silicone rubber, ethylene propylene diene monomers (EPDM), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), and fluoroelastomers. They are used in a wide range of applications, from gas pumps and hoses to refrigerators and complex hydraulic machinery.
Standard O-ring sizes are defined by International Standard ISO 3601-1:2002. The G series is intended for general-purpose use, while the A series is designed for aerospace applications. The effectiveness of an O-ring’s seal depends on the volume relationship between the O-ring and the gland it fits into.

In all applications, O-rings with a larger cross-sectional diameter offer better resistance to compression sets and reduced volume swell in liquids. Conversely, smaller cross-section O-rings provide superior physical properties, resist explosive decompression, and occupy less space. For components with tight tolerances, rigidity, and smooth or ground surfaces, smaller cross-sectional O-rings can be used effectively, even under high pressure.

Chapter Three – How Rubber Mouldings are Made

Rubber products and components are produced, shaped, and formed using various moulding processes. Beyond simply shaping the parts, molding subjects the rubber material to chemical reactions that enhance or harden the polymer chains. These reactions cause the long polymer chains to cross-link, which prevents them from moving independently. As a result, the rubber material can expand and contract in response to applied or removed stress.
In most cases, heat is applied during rubber moulding to expedite the curing process. The three primary types of rubber molding are compression, injection, and transfer molding. Additionally, a fourth process called extrusion is used to produce rubber parts and components, though it does not involve moulding. Instead, extrusion shapes rubber through a continuous process without the use of a mould.
Several preparatory steps are necessary before initiating the moulding process:

Designing Rubber Moulds

Rubber can be moulded into complex shapes and designs. During the design phase, specific configurations are incorporated into the rubber geometry to make production more cost-effective. Engineers must carefully consider the parting line and its location, ensuring it has a minimal draft angle. The mould design is crucial, as it lays the groundwork for part development and can significantly impact the success or failure of the final product’s production.

Producing the Mould

Once the design is finalized, it is converted into a metal mold. Moulds are typically made from materials like hardened steel, beryllium-copper alloys, or aluminum. Hardened steel is the most commonly used material due to its durability, making it a cost-effective choice despite its higher initial expense. It generally measures 38 to 45 on the Rockwell hardness scale. The mold construction includes the mold cavity and surface finish, both of which must be precisely engineered to ensure the final part meets the required specifications.
Included in the mold construction are the mould cavity and its surface finish, both of which must be meticulously designed and manufactured. The mould cavity is the hollow space where the rubber is injected or compressed to form the part, while the surface finish of the cavity affects the texture and quality of the final product. Proper adjustment of these elements is crucial for achieving the desired finish and ensuring that the molded part meets all specifications and quality standards.
The creation of the mould typically involves advanced computer programs that precisely produce moulds to match the exact parameters of the design. This computerization process greatly reduces the time required to produce the rubber mould, ensuring high precision and consistency in the final product. Computer numerical control (CNC) machines are often used in this process to cut, shape, and refine the mold components with exacting accuracy, facilitating efficient and accurate production.

Once the mould has been cast and manufactured, it undergoes rigorous testing to ensure dimensional accuracy and compliance with the original design specifications. This testing phase involves measuring and inspecting the mould to confirm that it meets all required tolerances and performance criteria. Any discrepancies or defects identified during this phase are addressed through adjustments or refinements to ensure that the mould will produce high-quality, precise rubber components during production.

Once the mould is completed and approved, the production process will begin using one of three manufacturing methods.

Vulcanization in Rubber Moulding

A key aspect of rubber moulding is vulcanization, which transforms the thermoplastic properties of rubber into strong, elastic, and durable materials. Each moulding process involves the use of vulcanized rubber. Various vulcanization techniques are employed, each involving sulfur combined with other agents such as accelerators, activators, and retarders to create a cross-linked molecular network.
When vulcanization is performed using only sulfur, the process is slow and can lead to oxidative degradation, resulting in poor mechanical properties. The addition of accelerators to the sulfur makes the process more efficient by lowering the temperature and reducing the required amount of sulfur, thereby improving the rubber’s aging properties.
The cross-linking that occurs during vulcanization forms a net-like structure, giving rubber its stable elasticity, known as thermoset. This cross-linked network is what imparts tensile strength to the rubber.

Compression Moulding

Compression moulding is the most straightforward rubber moulding process. It involves a two-part clamshell-style mold that shapes the final part. After placing unvulcanized rubber into the mould cavity, the mould is closed and heated while pressure is applied using a hydraulic press
As the rubber in the mould heats up, it fills the mould cavity. The heat reduces the viscosity of the rubber, allowing it to flow freely under increased pressure and completely fill the mould. Once the appropriate temperature is reached, the rubber vulcanizes, or hardens, ensuring that it retains its shape as it cools in the mould.

Transfer Moulding

The transfer moulding process is similar to compression moulding but employs a transfer system positioned above the mould to feed raw rubber into multiple mold cavities once the press is closed. Before being injected into the mould cavities, the rubber compound is placed in a section of the mould called the pot. From the pot, the compound is pushed into the mould cavity through a small channel known as the sprue, using a heated plunger or piston.

Transfer moulding is a highly efficient process with short tool loading times. While parts produced may not have tight tolerances, the process supports high production runs. Once curing is complete, the mould is separated, and the parts are released.

Rubber to Metal (RTM) Moulding

Rubber-to-metal molding (RTM) is a process used to bond vulcanized rubber to metal, providing isolation from noise and vibrations. Each RTM method is designed and engineered to meet the requirements of specific applications, offering features such as high fatigue strength, resistance to aging and temperature, and recyclability.

In RTM moulding, vulcanized rubber is used to create an elastomer that bonds with the metal substrate during the vulcanization process. The metal is first primed and coated with a polymer solution mixed with other ingredients. The rubber and additive blend, combined with sulfur as a catalyst, is then molded with the metal substrate under heat and pressure.

During vulcanization, the metal interacts with the primer, topcoat, and rubber to form a layer adjacent to the metal substrate, creating a strong bond approximately 10 to 20 microns (µ) thick. The polymer molecules in the rubber cross-link, which prevents them from moving independently, thereby enabling the rubber to withstand stress and retain its original shape.

Chapter Four – Types of Rubber Used for Rubber Moulding

The variety of rubber types used in rubber moulding is extensive and continually expanding. Most of these rubbers are synthetic, created through chemical processes involving polymers that enhance their durability and elasticity, making them suitable for forming and shaping.
To understand the materials used in rubber manufacturing, it’s essential to distinguish between natural and synthetic rubber. Natural rubber is derived from the latex of the rubber tree plant, while synthetic rubber is created through chemical processes.
Synthetic rubber is produced artificially through the polymerization of monomers into polymers. This can be achieved via solution or emulsion polymerization. The solution method involves dissolving the monomer in a solvent with a catalyst, resulting in the formation of a polymer. In the emulsion process, an emulsion containing water, a monomer, and a surfactant (a compound that reduces surface tension) is used to create the polymer.

Natural Rubber

Natural rubber is derived from the latex of the rubber tree. It exhibits high tensile strength and notable abrasion and surface friction properties, making it ideal for applications such as vibration dampers, seals, O-rings, mountings, diaphragms, and bumpers. Additionally, natural rubber bonds effectively with metal, making it suitable for use as a coating.
This unique combination of elasticity and resilience makes natural rubber highly valuable in various applications, including the manufacturing of tires, footwear, automotive parts, industrial products, and a broad range of consumer goods.

Nitrile or Buna-N (NBR)

Nitrile rubber, or NBR, is produced from acrylonitrile and butadiene using the emulsifier process. In this method, acrylonitrile, a butadiene monomer, an activator, and a catalyst are combined in a polymerization container, which is heated to 104 °F (40 °C) to ensure proper mixing. NBR is widely used in rubber molding due to its resistance to water, oil, various fluids, and solvents. It also offers excellent abrasion and tear resistance, along with strong mechanical properties.
Due to its excellent resistance to oil and chemicals, nitrile rubber is frequently used to manufacture O-rings, gaskets, seals, hoses, diaphragms, and other components in industries where exposure to oil and fuel is common. Additionally, it is utilized in gloves and other protective equipment because of its durability against oil and chemicals.

Hydrogenated Nitrile Butadiene (HNBR)

HNBR (Hydrogenated Nitrile Butadiene Rubber) is created through the hydrogenation of NBR (Nitrile Butadiene Rubber), which removes the olefinic bonds that are susceptible to degradation. HNBR is renowned for its strength and heat resistance. It offers excellent resistance to petroleum-based oils and fuels, aliphatic hydrocarbons, vegetable oils, silicone oils and greases, ethylene glycol, water and steam, as well as dilute acids, bases, and salt solutions. Due to these properties, HNBR is extensively used in the automotive industry.
In the automotive sector, HNBR seals and gaskets play a critical role in ensuring the reliability of engines, transmissions, and air conditioning systems. Its durability makes HNBR an essential material in the oil and gas industry as well, where it is used for seals and hoses to withstand harsh conditions and prevent leaks. Additionally, HNBR is employed in the aerospace industry for critical components like O-rings and fuel system seals, ensuring safety and performance at high altitudes and extreme temperatures.

Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is produced by combining ethylene, propylene, and a diene comonomer that facilitates cross-linking. Its unique structure makes EPDM resistant to heat, light, and ozone, allowing it to withstand temperatures up to 302 °F (150 °C). Known for its durability, EPDM is used in various applications including steam systems, automotive panels, and braking systems, where it provides long-lasting performance.

EPDM’s exceptional resistance to heat, weathering, ozone, and UV radiation makes it a key material in the automotive sector, where it is used for weather seals, gaskets, and radiator hoses. In construction, EPDM roofing membranes offer durable, waterproof solutions. It is also widely used in electrical insulation, providing safety and longevity for electrical systems. Additionally, EPDM’s flexibility and durability make it valuable in the marine and HVAC industries, where it is employed for gaskets and seals that must withstand harsh environmental conditions.

Neoprene™

Neoprene rubber, also known as polychloroprene or chloroprene, is produced through the emulsion polymerization of chloroprene using a potassium catalyst. This versatile material offers excellent resistance to weather, temperature extremes, fire, and abrasion. Due to its durability and resistance to degradation, neoprene is commonly used for gaskets, hoses, and various coatings. Its adaptability makes it suitable for rubber molding across different molding techniques.

The automotive sector relies on neoprene for gaskets, seals, and hoses due to its resistance to oils and extreme temperatures. In the sporting goods industry, neoprene’s flexibility, durability, and insulating properties make it ideal for wetsuits, diving gear, and protective equipment. The medical field uses neoprene for orthopedic supports and braces because of its comfort and hypoallergenic qualities. Additionally, neoprene’s resistance to chemicals and weathering makes it a valuable material in construction, particularly for waterproofing applications.

Silicone

Silicone rubber is a versatile material composed of silicon combined with carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. The term “silicone rubber” encompasses various types, each differentiated by its organic group and chemical structure. These types include methyl, methyl phenyl, methyl vinyl, methyl phenyl vinyl, and fluoro vinyl methyl. Silicone rubber is widely valued for its resistance to extreme temperatures, flexibility, and weather resistance.
In the electronics sector, silicone is used for insulating and protecting delicate components from extreme temperatures and moisture. The automotive industry also relies on silicone for gaskets, seals, and hoses to ensure durability and optimal performance.

In healthcare, medical-grade silicone is crucial for producing implants, prosthetics, and medical tubing due to its biocompatibility. The aerospace and aviation industries use silicone-based coatings to protect aircraft from harsh environmental conditions. In construction, silicone sealants and adhesives are valued for weatherproofing, bonding, and their resistance to extreme temperature variations.

Fluorosilicone (FVMQ)

Fluorosilicone is a type of silicone that includes trifluoropropyl groups, which enhance its resistance to chemicals, non-polar solvents, fuels, oils, acids, and alkalis. Like silicone, it remains highly adaptable across a wide range of temperatures. Its durability and resistance to petroleum products make it especially valuable in the aerospace industry.

Fluorocarbon (FKM)

FKM, or fluororubber, is made from VITON and is classified based on its chemical composition, fluorine content, or method of cross-linking. The classification ranges from one to five, with each type featuring a distinct copolymer. FKMs can be cross-linked using diamine, dihydroxy, or peroxide materials. FKM’s properties, including its resistance to chemicals and extremely high temperatures, make it ideal for molding hoses, O-rings, gaskets, and fuel lines.

Styrene Butadiene (SBR)

SBR (Styrene-Butadiene Rubber) is primarily made from butadiene with a small percentage of styrene, copolymerized using the emulsion process. It exhibits outstanding resistance to abrasion, cracking, and aging. These favorable properties make SBR ideal for rubber molding applications such as diaphragms, seals, and gaskets.

Butyl or Isobutylene Isoprene (IIR)

IIR (Butyl Rubber) is produced by copolymerizing isobutylene with isoprene, compounds derived from natural gas or crude oil. The materials are combined at temperatures as low as -150 °F (-100 °C). IIR is impermeable to gases, making it ideal for manufacturing seals for high-pressure and vacuum applications. Additionally, it possesses sound-dampening qualities, making it suitable for use as a bumper in equipment.

Polarity of Rubber

Several factors influence the permeability of rubber, including the size of the permeant molecules. The polarity of these molecules is a significant factor, as it affects their interaction with different substances. For instance, EPDM and oil are nonpolar; thus, when EPDM is exposed to oil, it absorbs the oil and swells. Conversely, NBR (Nitrile Butadiene Rubber) has high polarity, which causes it to repel oils and resist swelling.
When using rubber, it’s crucial to match the type of rubber to the permeant by considering the rubber’s polarity. This ensures optimal performance and longevity based on how the rubber interacts with different substances.

Chapter Five – Advantages of Rubber Molding

Rubber molding plays a crucial role in the rubber production industry, allowing for the precise creation of components, parts, configurations, and designs tailored to specific applications. Rubber is chosen for its exceptional durability and endurance, as it can withstand considerable stress and wear over extended periods without failure.

Compression

Compression moulding involves placing a preformed piece of rubber into a heated mould. When the mold is closed, the preformed rubber is compressed against the mould’s sides. The products are formed under high pressure and temperature, which triggers the curing process.

Advantages of Compression Moulding

  • Cost-efficient
  • Less expensive tooling
  • Increased cavity count
  • Perfect for larger pieces needing extended curing time
  • Accepts all forms of elastomers
  • Eliminates the need for runners, sprues, or gates
  • Simplified process
  • Little to no waste

Transfer Moulding

Transfer molding utilizes a closed mold system and involves rubber pellets or preformed rubber. These materials are placed in a pot situated between the top plate of the mold and the plunger. The plunger heats the pellets in the pot and forces the material down the sprue into the mold cavities. The plunger stays in place until the material conforms to the mold shape and cures.

Advantages of Transfer Moulding

  • Economical process
  • Cost-effective tooling
  • Shorter cycle times
  • Highly precise parts
  • Tight dimensional tolerances
  • Long curing time for larger products
  • Accepts all types of elastomers
  • Multiple parts produced during each cycle
  • Greater design flexibility allowing for sharp edges
  • Reduced flash
  • Simple process with pot, plunger, and mold

Chapter Six – Industries Served by Rubber Moulding

Rubber-moulded products have a virtually limitless range of applications, making them valuable across various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and spacecraft manufacturing. The proven durability of rubber-molded components has established them as essential elements in numerous industrial processes.

Aerospace

In the aerospace industry, rubber components must be exceptionally reliable and meet stringent performance standards not typically required in other sectors. These parts need to be highly durable, resistant to weathering, and capable of withstanding sudden temperature fluctuations. For the safety of passengers and aircraft, gaskets and seals must also be resistant to oils, gases, and fire.

This manufacturing technique is used to produce a variety of critical components, including sealing gaskets, vibration dampeners, and custom seals for aircraft windows and doors. Rubber moulding offers a durable and flexible solution that ensures safety and performance under the demanding conditions of flight. Its capability to create complex, customized shapes with tight tolerances makes it essential for meeting the highest efficiency and safety standards in aerospace engineering.

Automotive

The automotive industry relies on rubber parts across various sections of vehicles, from brakes and clutch seals to battery gaskets. Rubber’s noise suppression capabilities make it ideal for use in consoles and other interior components. Its ability to withstand extreme temperatures, chemicals, and mechanical stress makes it well-suited for applications such as engine mounts and tire treads, enhancing the durability, safety, and overall performance of vehicles.

Print

In the printing industry, moulded rubber products play a crucial role, particularly in rubber rollers, which consist of a metal core, rubber bonding material, and a rubber covering. These rollers are essential for transferring ink onto printing plates in graphic arts and printing processes. Additionally, rubber pads are commonly used for shock absorption, along with rubber mountings, to reduce vibrations and ensure stable operation.

The flexibility of rubber moulding enables the production of intricate and specialized components, which enhances the quality and efficiency of printing equipment. Rubber’s resilience and resistance to wear and tear make it an ideal choice for durable and long-lasting printing solutions.

Home Appliances

Home appliance rubber parts endure frequent use and extreme temperature fluctuations. Therefore, rubber-moulded components must be durable and robust enough to withstand intense wear and tear.
Rubber molding is employed in many home appliances due to its flexibility and durability. It is particularly effective for creating seals and gaskets that prevent water, dust, and other contaminants from entering sensitive electronic components, thereby ensuring the appliance’s longevity.

Rubber moulding also improves safety by offering insulation against electrical currents and shock hazards. Its non-slip properties are ideal for enhancing grip on handles and buttons, thus improving user control and ergonomics. Additionally, rubber moulding helps dampen vibrations and reduce noise levels, contributing to a quieter and more pleasant home environment.

Electrical

In the electrical industry, rubber-moulded products are crucial for safety and protection. These products include outlet covers, shock protection components, chemical-resistant parts, solutions for reducing electromagnetic interference, and seals to guard against dust and moisture. As with other industries, these components must be durable, resilient, and user-friendly.

The primary concern for the electrical industry is adhering to standards and regulations designed to protect workers and ensure safety.

Agriculture

The agriculture industry has unique demands compared to other production and manufacturing sectors. Key requirements include protection against leaks and seepage, as well as the ability to endure harsh weather conditions that agricultural products frequently face. Additionally, agricultural production often involves handling chemical fertilizers and insect repellents, which must be managed with great care.

Rubber moulding produces gaskets and seals that provide essential protection and safety for handling the various chemicals used in agricultural production.

Medicine

Rubber-moulded products have countless applications in the medical field, including seals and gaskets for equipment and tubing for fluid delivery. The durability of rubber makes it an ideal material for medical use. Whether in medical research or patient treatment, rubber-molded parts and products are integral to every aspect of medical care.
One of the most important features of rubber-moulded products in the medical field is their ability to be recycled, as many medical applications involve single-use instruments that are disposed of after use.

Another critical factor for medical instruments is the need to meet stringent standards for patient treatment. Manufacturers must strictly adhere to regulatory requirements and restrictions to ensure public safety and protection.

Food and Beverage

Rubber-molded products for the food and beverage industry must comply with the regulations set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are required to be designed for exceptionally hygienic conditions and must withstand regular cleaning and sanitization processes.

The FDA specifies acceptable rubber compounds for use in parts and components within the food and beverage industries. The primary concerns are that materials must be non-toxic and non-carcinogenic to ensure safety for consumers.

Chemical

The chemical industry produces a diverse range of products, including chemicals for agriculture, pharmaceuticals, paints, and the petroleum sector. These varied applications require a wide assortment of rubber products due to rubber’s chemical resistance. Hard rubbers, in particular, are used in this industry because they contain a high percentage of sulfur, which makes them chemically inert and resistant to corrosion.

Rubber moulding’s resistance to corrosive chemicals and extreme temperatures makes it an ideal choice for gaskets, seals, and custom components used in chemical processing equipment. It ensures a secure, leak-free environment, preventing hazardous substance leaks and enhancing safety. The flexibility of rubber also allows for the creation of intricate shapes and sizes, meeting the diverse needs of the chemical sector.

Conclusion

  • Rubber moulding is a process of transforming uncured rubber or an elastomer into a usable product by transferring, compressing, or injecting raw rubber material into a metal mold cavity.
  • The most common methods for rubber moulding are compression, and transfer.
  • Rubber‘s flexibility and durability offer engineers different ways to design seals and cushioning components.
  • The purpose of the moulding process, aside from shaping parts, is to subject the rubber material to chemical processes that toughen or harden the polymer chains of the raw rubber.
  • Rubber moulding is an essential part of the rubber production industry since components, parts, configurations, and designs can be produced to exactly fit the needs of an application.
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