Whether you realize it or not, polyurethane materials are an integral and prominent component in our everyday lives. They are present in a number of products and provide a number of benefits. They can make things you use on a daily basis more efficient, durable, and comfortable. Whether it’s a cozy couch or comfy shoes, you can thank polyurethane materials. Due to their amazing benefits, you may wonder, how are polyurethane materials formed? Below, you will find more information on the material and how it is incorporated into your everyday life.
How are polyurethane materials formed?
Polyurethanes are highly versatile plastics. They are a top choice for manufacturers due to their benefits. They are in a number of products and a variety of applications that are likely a part of your everyday life. They are formed by reacting a polyol with a diisocyanate or polymeric isocyanate. This mixture also includes some suitable catalysts and additives. These materials are highly versatile, so they can create a wide variety of different materials.
They are also customizable, which is a huge draw for manufacturers.
The nature of polyurethanes and the chemical process allows for advantageous adaptations. Unlike other materials, polyurethanes can solve a number of problems. They are molded into non-traditional shapes, including polyurethane O-rings and sealing systems. In terms of manufacturing consumer products, this is highly beneficial. The products are made to add comfort, warmth, and convenience to consumers’ everyday lives. Not only does it provide comfort, but it is also highly durable and safe.
Benefits of Polyurethane Materials
Polyurethane materials offer a wide range of benefits. They are highly versatile across a number of industries. Consider the following benefits of the material.
Chemical Resistance: Unlike a number of compostable materials, polyurethanes are resistant to a number of oils, chemicals, and solvents
Flexibility: Polyurethane specialty seals are formulated to be either soft and flexible or hard and rigid depending on the unique needs of the application
Water Resistance: Some polyurethanes are resistant to water and even waterproof
Versatility: Polyurethanes are highly versatile as they are molded and customized into various shapes, sixes, and textures
Mold and Mildew Resistant: Mold and mildew can cause serious damage to applications in moist environments, which polyurethanes are resistant to
Common Products With Polyurethane
Polyurethane is a highly versatile material in a wide variety of applications. The following are just a sample of products you interact with on a daily basis that contain polyurethane.
Home Furnishings:
Polyurethane in the form of foam is in furniture. This includes couches, mattresses, and upholstered chairs. This improves both the comfort and durability of your furniture.
Automotive Parts:
The material is often used in cars and other automobiles. It is in car seats, steering wheels, dashboards, and suspension components. As with home furnishings, polyurethane adds both comfort and durability to various auto parts.
Shoes:
The soles and insoles of your shoes are likely made from polyurethane. They provide cushion and additional support to keep your feet healthy. In addition, the material can also add water resistance to your favorite sneakers.
Medical Devices and Equipment:
Polyurethane is a part of our everyday lives, but it is also an important part of the medical field. The material is in catheters, tubing, and other medical devices. The material is beneficial for this application due to the biocompatibility.
Coatings and Finishes:
Polyurethane is in paints, varnishes, and coatings. These are found in wood, floors, automotive, and furniture applications. These coatings and finishes provide durability and resistance to everyday wear and tear.
Silicone rubber seals are used in a variety of applications. One important question when it comes to silicone rubber seals is the temperature threshold. This is important to note as different applications have environments that can get really hot. Understanding the exact temperature point where silicone rubber seals will begin to degrade is key. Below you will find the top temperatures for Silicone rubber seals.
Top Temperatures for Silicon Rubber Seals
While there isn’t a definitive answer, there is a known range impacted by certain factors. Silicone rubber can withstand temperatures above 200 degrees Celsius. A key component in what a silicone rubber seal can withstand is time. The amount of time of exposure can change how hot silicon rubber can get before it melts. For example, a seal exposed to intermittent heat lasts longer than a seal exposed to continuous heat. Time can impact the longevity and performance of a silicone rubber seal. Because of that, it is critical to understand the environment before you choose your wholesale specialty seals.
Silicone Rubber Melting Point
Silicone rubber seals can withstand very high temperatures. However, there are noticeable changes in the material when it gets around its melting point. Silicone heated up to 150 degrees Celsius will result in very few changes. This is true even if the silicone seal is exposed to this temperature for long periods.
Silicone exposed to temperatures of 200 degrees Celcius includes changes that you can see. At this temperature, the silicone becomes harder and less flexible. When exposed to 300 degrees Celsius, the material becomes much harder. It is also less stretchy in a very short amount of time. Despite the physical changes, it will not melt. However, temperatures beyond 450 degrees Celsius result in melting.
Thermoplastic Components of Silicone Rubber Seals
Silicone rubber seals are used in a variety of applications. Common applications include cookware and kitchen tools, electronics, medical devices, personal care products, and industrial machinery. They are used in a number of industries and applications because they are flexible and durable. They are also heat resistant, making them a top choice for a number of applications with a hot environment.
Silicone rubber is a thermoset polymer. However, there are additional thermoplastic components that are incorporated into the seals. This depends on the application and the purpose of the silicone rubber seal. There are thousands of available materials that can be used in both industrial and consumer products. The additional materials often serve an integral and functional purpose. Common purposes include reinforcement or bonding.
Common Thermoplastic Materials
Silicone rubber seals are often combined with thermoplastic components. Below are some of the commonly used materials with silicone rubber seals.
Polypropylene: This is often used in gaskets or seals due to its chemical resistance and low moisture absorption
Polycarbonate: This material is often used when transparency, heat resistance, and impact resistance is necessary
Polyethylene: This is often used as a jacket material for cable seals or gaskets as it is resistant to chemicals
Benefits of Silicone Rubber Seals
Silicone rubber seals offer temperature resistance. This is highly important in a number of different applications. However, there are additional benefits to silicone rubber seals beyond just this. Consider the following if you are considering silicone for your application.
Flexible: Silicone rubber seals are flexible and elastic. This is beneficial as they can conform to irregular shapes. This can be helpful in challenging applications and environments.
Weather Resistant: For applications that are impacted by UV rays, silicone rubber seals are both weather and UV resistant. This is ideal for outdoor applications.
Longevity: Trusting that your silicone rubber seal will last is invaluable. They are resistant to degradation and wear and tear, making them a great long-term option.
Manufacturing plays an integral role in the modern world. Not only are material items more readily available, but they are also much more advanced due to manufacturing improvements. The manufacturing industry encompasses everything from toys and textiles to large machinery and automobiles. Almost everything in your home has gone through the manufacturing process. Because of this, the type of material is important as you are constantly exposed to everything from wood to metal. There are various materials in the manufacturing industry. The type used depends on the unique application and project. Below you will find the 6 most common manufacturing materials.
6 Most Common Manufacturing Materials
There are a number of different materials used in manufacturing. The type of material depends on your industry and specific application needs. Consider the following most common manufacturing materials.
Rubber: Rubber is a common manufacturing material. It is a versatile material that can be used in a wide variety of industries. Some of the common uses for rubber include auto tires, hoses, roofing, footwear, cookware, mattresses, and seal products and mechanical goods. Because of its flexible and durable nature, it is a preferred choice for manufacturers.
Plastic: One of the most common materials in manufacturing is plastic. It is used in a number of industries. Common industries include automotive, construction, textiles, and food packaging. Similar to rubber, plastic can also be used to create o-rings and sealing systems. The material is highly versatile and as it can be used to make everything from piping to water bottles.
Metal: Metal is another common manufacturing material due to its durability. There are a number of different types of metal that can be used depending on the industry. Each serves uniquely different purposes depending on the application. Common types include steel, aluminum, and cast iron. Steel is known for its strength and its use for large-scale projects. Alternatively, aluminum is lightweight and useful in the field of electronics. The versatility of metals allows manufacturers options. This ensures optimal performance and reliability.
Paper: Another common material in manufacturing is paper. This is because it is a highly versatile material applied in a variety of different applications. Paper is everywhere as it is a major part of so many different industries. From paper plates, cups, and napkins to books and toilet paper, the material is dynamic. When it comes to manufacturing, the appeal of paper is that it is cost-effective, lightweight, and recyclable. For those who prioritize eco-friendly materials, paper is a top choice.
Wood: Wood is a common manufacturing material. While most people think of wood as mostly a part of the furniture industry, it has a wide variety of applications. Wood is a common manufacturing material for doors, window frames, and other household items. Because wood is widely available, it’s a great material for manufacturing. Additionally, wood is recognized as a sustainable material. This is because its cultivation does not necessitate the use of fertilizers or pesticides. This makes it an organic product unlike a number of other goods.
Wiring Harness: Wiring harnesses are a common manufacturing material. In fact, they play a critical role in the functionality of cars, trucks, and construction equipment. These harnesses serve as a means of communication between different devices within a vehicle or machine. They are mostly made from insulated wiring and serve as a safeguard against damage. In addition to protection, the insulation prevents electrical contact. This is necessary to ensure optimal safety and avert the risk of short circuits in cars or other machinery. They provide protection and prevent electrical issues, ensuring smooth operation and safety.
Silicone rubber seals are versatile and widely used components. They are known for their excellent sealing properties and durability. Silicone rubber seals are made from a synthetic elastomer, specifically silicone rubber. This material offers a unique combination of flexibility and high-temperature resistance. Below you will find more information about the melting point of silicon rubber seals.
Melting Point of Silicon Rubber Seal
Silicone rubber seals are used in a wide variety of industries, including the automotive, aerospace, electronics, and plumbing industries. They play an important role in these industry applications as they prevent leaks, seal out contaminants, and ensure reliable performance in a wide range of environmental conditions. This is made possible for a variety of reasons, but most importantly, due to the melting point of silicon rubber. Silicone rubber offers high thermal stability and resistance to extreme temperatures. The melting point depends on a number of factors, including the formulation, composition, and whether there are any additives.
Standard Melting Point
For the standard silicone rubber seal, the general melting point falls between -50°C and 300°C. This is a broad range compared to alternative materials. This is possible because silicone rubber can be tailored to have different properties. This includes things like high-temperature resistance or low-temperature flexibility. This is done by adjusting its composition. However, standard silicone rubber seals fit within the aforementioned range.
Special Grade Melting Point
While the standard range is vast, special grades of silicone rubber can be formulated to have specific properties to meet your application’s requirements. Specifically, high-temperature silicone rubber grades can withstand even higher temperatures. This can be done without melting or any serious damage to the seal. In fact, some high-performance silicone rubber seals can reach more than 500°C.
In addition to high-performance silicone rubber seals, silicone rubber can also be used to maintain its flexibility at lower temperatures. These are referred to as low-temperature silicone rubber-grade seals. While these seals have much lower melting points, they are excellent at maintaining a rubbery state when exposed to higher temperatures.
Benefits of Silicone Rubber Seals
Silicone rubber seals offer a wide variety of benefits that make them a top choice in many applications. Consider the following if you are looking for the right seal for your project.
Seal Performance: Silicone rubber seal material has unmatched sealing properties. They are highly effective in preventing leaks from fluid, gas, or other contaminants.
Flexibility: Silicone rubber seals are highly flexible and elastic. This allows them to withstand numerous dimensional changes without compromising their sealing capabilities.
Chemical Resistant: Silicone rubber seals are highly resistant to a wide range of chemicals. This includes harsh chemicals, including acids, bases, and solvents.
Longevity: Silicone rubber seals are known for their durability and longevity. They are resistant to a variety of factors, including aging, degradation, and even compression.
Silicone Rubber Seal Formulations
Silicone rubber seals have a wide range of melting points depending on the unique formula and its intended application. To ensure your seal meets the unique needs of your application, it is recommended to consult with a skilled seal manufacturer. They can provide you with the necessary information based on your application’s requirements.
Silicone rubber seals are a great choice due to their amazing benefits. Their sealing performance, temperature resistance, flexibility, chemical resistance, and longevity make them an ideal choice for a wide range of sealing applications. In fact, Real Seal specialty seals can be formulated and customized for your specific project. Contact their team today for more information!
Seals are essential components in many industrial and consumer applications. Everything from medical devices to industrial machinery relies on the integrity of sealants. Seal integrity is critical to their performance, safety, and longevity. Issues with seals can create serious damage that can cost companies a lot of time and money. To ensure the strength and lifespan of a seal, it’s important to regularly check and maintain the seals in your application. There are various factors that can impact the longevity of a seal. Below you will find what affects seal integrity and how you can ensure your seals last.
What Affects Seal Integrity
There are a wide variety of factors that can impact the integrity of a seal. Consider the following to ensure your seals stay in good shape for the long run.
Natural Wear and Tear:
One of the most common reasons seals fail is due to the natural wear and tear that comes with their use. Even high-quality seals have a lifespan so it’s important to understand when and how often your seals need to be replaced. One of the best ways to ensure your seals are effective for the long haul is regular maintenance. Regularly checking your seals and addressing minor issues can improve their longevity. It can also ensure that they are replaced before they can cause any damage to the application.
Improper Application:
The installation process can be a major factor in the effectiveness and integrity of a seal. If a sealant does not bond properly, the area is not properly prepared, or if the technique used is ineffective, it can impact the integrity of the seal. This can reduce the lifespan of the seal and even cause serious issues if the installation is done poorly.
Seal Quality:
The quality of the sealant material can impact its integrity. Seals need to be created based on the unique needs of the application. If quality materials are not used, the strength and durability of the seal can be affected. Seal manufacturers at Real Seal curate materials that can withstand the stress of the unique application so the seal can last.
Temperature:
Temperature can affect seal integrity as it can impact how well it sticks together. For example, if the temperature is too hot, the seal can melt and weaken. Alternatively, if it’s too cold, the seal may not stick properly. Drastic changes in temperature can also advance the breakdown of a seal. Different applications have varying temperatures so it’s important to choose a seal that fits your unique needs. A specialty seal manufacturer can ensure your seals are right for your application as they rigorously test the materials.
Moisture:
Moisture can impact seal integrity as it can weaken the adhesive properties. This can make the seal less effective and cause it to break down much faster. Moisture or humidity can impact a seal when it’s being applied and after. If there is any moisture during the installation process, the seal can fail to bond properly. Moisture can also break down a seal over time if it is exposed for prolonged periods. Proper installation and using the right materials for your application are critical when it comes to maintaining the seal’s longevity.
Pressure:
Pressure can impact seal integrity as it can break it down much faster. Still, pressure can cause damage including tears, distortion, or complete breakdown. This can lead to leaks and seal failure if not addressed right away. When choosing a sealant, it’s important to assess the list of seal products and their materials to ensure it is strong enough for your application. Consider the amount of pressure involved in your application and overcompensate to ensure the integrity of the seals.
Keeping seals in good working condition can help prevent damage and financial losses associated with the issue. However, seals can break for a variety of reasons. Natural wear and tear, environmental issues, and even improper installation can cause issues with a seal. Addressing the issue right away is important in order to prevent serious issues. Below you will find how to fix a broken seal.
Signs of A Broken Seal
There are a number of signs that indicate you may have a broken seal. If you notice any of the following, it’s likely that the seal is broken or damaged.
Leaks: Leaks are a strong indicator that the seal is broken. There are varying levels of severity so it’s important to address the issue right away.
Condensation: Condensation around the sealant can be a sign that there are issues. Addressing the issue right away can be less costly as condensation is an early sign of a broken seal.
Energy Bill Changes: An increase in your energy bill can be a sign of serious issues with your application. Consult with a professional to diagnose the issue as it could be due to a broken seal.
Mold or Mildew: Broken seals can cause leakage which can result in mold or mildew. If you notice mold or mildew on your application, especially if it’s around the seal, it may be broken.
Visible Cracks or Damage: Visible damage does not always mean that your seal is broken. Although it is an indication that you need to address the issue. Cracks and damage are an early sign of potential issues that can be prevented if dealt with right away.
How to Fix a Broken Seal
Depending on the severity of the broken seal, there are a number of ways to fix it. For small cracks, a sealant or adhesive can be used to fill in any gaps or cracks. If the damage is slightly more severe, a patch may be beneficial. This can be a risk, so it’s important to use caution when patching a seal. In many cases, replacing the defective seal entirely can be more effective. You can replace it with o-rings and sealing systems as they are more effective than trying to fix older and less effective seals.
An effective way to determine if the seal has been effectively addressed is by performing compression pressure testing. This can help identify if the seal has been fixed, in addition to identifying the issue. While you may want to try and address the issue yourself, fixing broken seals is best done by a professional. This can help ensure the job is done right and avoid future issues.
Causes of Broken Seals
Taking preventative measures when it comes to seals is key in avoiding the costs associated with damage. Consider the top causes of broken seals and what you can do to avoid costly issues.
Wear and Tear: The normal wear and tear associated with seals can cause breaks and damage. Regular maintenance and assessments can help you see changes before they cause issues.
Extreme Temperatures: Depending on your specific application and the surrounding environment, issues can arise due to extreme temperatures. Be sure that you have the right seals for your applications. Having the proper seals and properly installing them can help protect them from damage due to extreme temperatures. Before installing your seals, consult with the experts at Real Seal as they are skilled and experienced in manufacturing quality seals.
Improper Installation: Proper installation is integral when it comes to the longevity of your seals. Professional installation, in addition to working with quality seals is key to ensuring your seals last.
Applications in a wide variety of industries utilize rubber seals. Industries such as food processing, medical equipment and supplies, automotive, and construction utilize rubber seals. Rubber sealants are highly durable and can withstand a high amount of pressure and stress. However, certain environmental factors can have an impact on rubber seals so it’s important to understand the potential risks. This includes the temperatures surrounding the given application. You may wonder, how temperature extremities affect rubber seals? Below you will find more information about rubber seals and their respective benefits.
How Temperature Extremities Affect Rubber Seals?
Temperature can impact the longevity and function of a rubber seal. In fact, environmental factors can have a serious impact on the seals. This can ultimately impact your overall application. This is why it is critical to understand the environment of your application, including any potential temperature extremities. The rubber seal can be designed to meet the unique needs of the application. It can also be created to account for the temperatures surrounding the rubber seal and application.
Rubber is created from a number of chemical bonds. This helps keep it flexible which is why it is a great material for seals. Each of the bonds in the rubber is a different length which can change the shape of the seal when force is applied. Certain temperatures and pressures can impact those chemical bonds, including heat and pressure. Heat and pressure can break the bonds which can impact the rubber seal. This can impact both the function and longevity of a rubber seal.
Effect of Temperature Extremities on Rubber Seals
Temperature extremities can impact rubber seals, in addition to impacting the overall function of your application. Consider the following effects of temperature extremities.
Extreme Heat: Exposure to extreme heat includes temperatures over 300 degrees fahrenheit. Exposure to this amount of heat for an extended period of time can lead to serious issues with rubber sealants. High heat can result in hardening, shrinkage, and even dry out. When rubber hardens it can make it less flexible and much more prone to cracking. Shrinkage is also damaging as it can result in a reduction in the function and effectiveness of the seal. Lastly, extreme heat can dry out rubber which can lead to cracking and inflexibility.
Extreme Cold: Exposure to extreme cold includes temperatures below 40 degrees fahrenheit. Exposure to this amount of cold for an extended period of time can lead to serious issues with rubber sealants. Extreme cold weather can also have an impact on rubber seals. Cold weather can cause rubber to become softer. This can compromise the function of the seal and lead to leaks.
Extreme Weather Fluctuations: Extreme weather fluctuations can have the same impacts as extreme heat and cold, but it can often be worse. The constant exposure to extremes can lead to leakage and full application failure.
Choosing The Right Material
Exposure to extreme temperatures can affect the performance and lifespan of rubber seals. This is why it is critically important to consider the temperature range that the rubber seals will be exposed to. Failure to do this can cost you a lot of time, money, and even impact the credibility of your business depending on the severity of the issue. It is essential to consider the operating temperature range for every application you use the rubber seals in. This is why it’s important to work with a seal manufacturing company as they can guide you through the process. The team at Real Seal are skilled and experienced in seals from thermoplastic material. Contact their team today for any of your rubber sealant application needs!
Polyurethane is a polymer that is highly versatile with a number of beneficial properties. It is durable, abrasion resistant, and is highly resilient. It can be used in a number of applications and comes in various forms. With all of these amazing benefits, you may wonder, is polyurethane waterproof?
Is Polyurethane Waterproof?
To a certain degree, polyurethane is waterproof. However, there are several factors that make some types of polyurethane more or less absorbent than other materials. The physical properties and material can determine what level of absorption (or lack of absorption) occurs. In fact, a number of thermoset polyurethanes can have nearly zero water absorption compared to other materials.
The role of water absorption plays a critical role in the design of a product. You may wonder, what exactly is water absorption and how does it work? Water absorption is determined by the amount of water that penetrates a given material. Porous materials often have higher rates of water absorption due to the nature of the material. However, more solid materials have less water absorption. Some materials can even be waterproof, meaning that they do not absorb any water.
Testing for Water Absorption
Values for water absorption are measured by the percentage of weight gain. This method takes roughly one week and involves comparing the wet weight to the dry weight. The water absorption depends on a variety of factors, including the type of polymer, what additives are in the polymer, the temperature, and the exposure time. There are standardized tests, most notably the ASTM-Standard D570 test, that offer consistent results when testing materials.
Polyurethane Types and Water Absorption
Polyurethane comes in a number of different forms. Common forms include solids and foam. These clearly display different levels of water absorption due their varying porosity. One of the major benefits of polyurethane is that it can be customized to repel water. This is unlike metals, rubber, plastics, and other natural materials which can be impacted by the customization. Oftentimes these materials can swell, oxidize, or corrode. However, polyurethane can be customized without the risk for these issues. This is why polyurethanes are commonly used in applications that are submerged in water or that experience high levels of humidity. Both of these scenarios require low water absorption to maintain the mechanical and physical properties of the application.
Using Polyurethane in Your Applications
Depending on your unique application, polyurethane is often a great material for projects that need materials with low water absorption. This is because materials such as metal, rubber, and thermoplastics can absorb water over time. This can be a serious issue in many applications. Product and application designers often need materials that are not impacted by water exposures. Issues such as stiffness, durometer, and dimensional changes cannot happen due to the impact they can have on the overall application or product.
Using certain polyurethane, including engineered thermoset polyurethane, can meet the needs of various applications as the rate of water absorption can be customized. Using a polyurethane can ensure a low water absorption rate, reduced maintenance requirements, and increase the life of the application or component can be highly beneficial. Water absorption issues can have a serious impact on certain applications, which can unnecessarily cost you time and money.
Specialty Seals from Real Seal
Customizing your materials is necessary to ensure your application needs are met. If the application requires low water absorption, consider polyurethane. Polyurethane o-rings can meet the needs of your application due to the benefits that come with the material. They can be easily customized by the experts at Real Seal. They manufacture and distribute both seal products and mechanical component goods. Consider specialty seals from Real Seal for your project needs.
O-rings are an integral component of numerous machines and other applications. Shaped like a donut, the ring can play a major role in various machines and applications. The ring-shaped seals are often made from elastomers. They are designed to prevent fluid and gas from leaking around mating surfaces (areas where two or more passages meet). Leakage on mating surfaces can cause serious damage and disrupt the machine process. This is why O-rings are vitally important as they can effectively prevent this from happening. O-rings can be made using a variety of different manufacturing processes. Below you will find the top 4 manufacturing processes for O-rings.
Top 4 Manufacturing Processes for O-Rings
O-rings are an integral part of many applications as they are vital in maintaining the function and purpose of them. Consider the top 4 manufacturing processes for O-rings.
Extrusion: Many O-rings can be made extrusion, a manufacturing process in which raw material is forced through a die or series of dies. There are different forms of extrusion, including hot extrusion, cold extrusion, friction extrusion, and microextrusion. When the material passes through the die (or dies), it ultimately takes on the shape of the die. Some types of extrusion manufacturing processes use a hopper. Raw material is fed into a hopper and heated. Once the material is heated, it is forced through a die or series of dies. O-rings are heated and passed through a ring-shaped die.
Pressure Molding: Another effective manufacturing process used to produce O-rings is pressure molding. Also referred to a “compression molding,” pressure molding uses heat and pressure to create a three-dimensional O-ring. The O-ring pressure molding manufacturing process begins by injecting preheated material into a mold cavity. This is often rubber, but can be other materials. Once the material is injected into the mold cavity, a fitted plug is used to close the cavity. The pressure is increased in the mold which allows the material to take shape.
Transfer Molding: O-rings can also be made using transfer molding, which is substantially similar to pressure molding. The manufacturing process of transfer molding involves placing preheated material into a mold cavity. Unlike pressure molding, transfer molding requires a closed mold cavity, not an open mold. Because transfer molding uses a closed mold cavity, the molding is able to create higher pressure. This makes the finished product thicker and often provides more consistent results.
Injection Molding: Injection molding is an effective manufacturing process that can be used to create O-rings. The process involves injecting raw material into a mold cavity, usually in the form of pellets. The pellets are then heated and become liquified, making them easily moldable once in the mold cavity.
Real Seal Specialty Seals
O-ring and other sealing systems are necessary for a variety of applications. The team at Real Seal are experts in specialty seals as they excel in providing both materials and designs that can solve any problem. Their focus is on performance as that is the number one priority for any application. Specialty seal considerations include the need for quality consumer and industrial products, environmental regulations, economic demands, performance demands, and consistency. They offer a variety of materials, including EPDM, Fluorocarbon, Silicone, BR, HNBR, and other rubber and plastic materials. These can be customized to meet your unique application needs.
The team at Real Seal are industry experts in both the manufacturing and distribution of seal products and mechanical component goods. Their products are high-quality, durable, consistent and efficient. No matter what your sealant needs are, Real Seal can provide you with customized options to meet your project needs. Avoid wasting time and contact Real Seal today for support!
Rubber is a part of our everyday lives as it is used in so many products and applications. From automobile tires to the soles of your shoes, rubber is everywhere. Due to the impact that certain materials can have on the environment, many people are becoming more and more conscious about finding effective ways to combat unnecessary waste. If you are trying to find the right material for your application, you may wonder, can rubber be recycled? Below you will find more information on rubber, its various uses, and the major benefits of the material.
Can Rubber Be Recycled?
Recycling can be highly beneficial as you can easily create new products with old materials. People often associated recycling with materials such as paper, plastic, metal, glass, and even water. However, rubber can also be recycled. Rubber is often recycled to create more rubber products. Rubber is a common material used in a variety of different applications in everyone’s daily life. Tires, gyms, children’s playgrounds, shoes, and even kitchen items are either made of or utilize rubber. One of the most common sources of recycled rubber is automobile tires. Recycling old tires is great for the environment as it reduces waste and pollution.
The Recycled Tire Process
Because recycled rubber products are mostly comprised of rubber from old tires, you may wonder what the process is like. Tires are made from both elastomers and metal fibers. With that, the rubber needs to be extracted from the tires in order to be recycled and repurposed into something else. Additionally, the rubber has been vulcanized. Vulcanization involves the process of treating and heating the rubber with sulfur. This strengthens the bonds between the chemical compounds.
Despite the benefits of vulcanization for tire production, this process must be undone to be able to use the rubber material in another application. Once the tires are separated from the other materials, they turn into a crumb-like substance. They are then treated and processed mechanically, and the crumbs are molded into a finished product. The finished product is most often a rubber roll which can be cut to make industrial equipment, injection molding, industrial pads, gaskets, and a number of other products.
Quality of Recycled Rubber
Recycled rubber can be customized to work in a variety of applications and products. The recycling process transforms the old rubber into a new product that is just as high quality as if it was made with new rubber. In fact, they are just as durable and reliable. In many cases, they can perform better than non-rubber alternatives. One of the major benefits of recycled rubber is that it is cost-effective. These are great incentives to opt for recycled rubber as the material also reduces waste and is better for the environment.
Benefits of Recycled Rubber
Your project will inevitably benefit from recycled rubber. However, consider the additional benefits of choosing recycled rubber.
Less Energy Consumption: Significant amounts of energy are used in the production of rubber. Recycled rubber eliminates some of the energy consumption by creating products with recycled materials.
Less Pressure on Natural Rubber: Using and recycling synthetic materials can ensure that natural rubber is preserved much more effectively.
Conserves Landfill Space: Reusing materials that are abundantly used, such as rubber, helps free up landfill space.
Real Seal Specialty Seals
Real Seal manufacturers and distributes seal products and mechanical component goods. They focused on performance-oriented rubber and plastic materials to meet the needs of your application. Real Seal specialty seals are the best on the market due to their durability and quality. The team of experts at Real Seal are skilled in customizing the product to meet your unique project needs. Contact their team today for more information!
