5 Reasons Why an NBR Rubber Sheet Has High Demand in the Middle East

The Middle East economy is fueled by oil and natural gas exports. It is the den for oil refineries. Reportedly, in the Middle East, 598 oil and gas projects are planned to start between 2022 and 2026. Among them, almost 51% of projects are petrochemical-related. With such a high percentage of oil and gas projects, the demand for oil-resistant materials also spikes for regular industrial applications. 

Yes, you guessed that right, we are talking about NBR rubber. It has huge demand in Middle Eastern countries such as Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, and others. 

Why NBR Rubber Sheet is a Staple in the Middle East: 5 Reasons to Know

1. Remarkable Oil Resistance and Low Gas Permeability

An NBR rubber sheet has excellent resistance against a broad range of oils and fuels. It has resistance against petroleum-based fluids such as LPG, petrol, and diesel. As a result, NBR rubber is ideal for oil and fuel seals, oil-resistant skirting, and others. 

Unlike other rubber products, NBR rubber does not swell or show abnormalities in applications having oil exposure. Hence, it continues to perform effectively even in such conditions. 

An NBR rubber sheet has low gas permeability. In other words, it does not allow the passage of gas through it. NBR rubber has nitrile groups in its polymer chain. As a result, it is rigid and has higher density, this makes nitrile rubber an outstanding barrier to gas flow. This helps in effective sealing in the oil and gas industries of the Middle East. 

2. Superior Physical Properties

NBR sheets show excellent performance in the demanding industries of the Middle East. It has tensile strength ranging from 4 MPa to 17 MPa. In addition, the elongation at the break of NBR rubber sheets ranges from 200% to 500%. Thus, it does not break down easily under high physical stress. Pulling and stretching will not be able to permanently deform and damage the nitrile rubber sheet. 

Industries can rely on NBR rubber sheets as they offer a long service life. Hence, they do not require frequent repairs and replacements. They are cost-effective in the long run. 

3. Insulating Properties 

Industries including the oil and gas sectors, power, and manufacturing industries have several high voltage applications. Did you know that NBR rubber has insulating properties? It has adequate dielectric strength and does not break down easily in high voltages. Thus, nitrile rubber has applications in electrical transformers, cables, wires, and manufacturing protective gloves. 

In addition, NBR rubber has thermal insulating properties. It can endure temperatures ranging from -30 degrees to +120 degrees centigrade.

4. Customizable

You can customize an NBR rubber sheet. Reputed nitrile rubber suppliers offer customization options. Different industrial applications in Middle Eastern countries require different NBR sheet sizes or colors. 

You can tailor-make the thickness, length, and width of your NBR rubber sheet. Besides, you can also alter the color of your NBR rubber sheet. However, it is important to note that the NBR sheet price increases with customization. 

Wrapping it up, 

NBR rubber has extraordinary oil and fuel resistance. This makes it an ideal choice for the Middle East. The increasing projects of oil and gas resulted in the market growth of NBR rubber. However, its low gas permeability and insulating properties also make it a good choice for industries. It is used for a variety of applications including seals, gaskets, and others. Thus, it is renowned for its durability, longevity, and consistent performance in the Middle Eastern industries.

Scroll up and check some frequently asked questions!

How to know whether the NBR sheet supplier is reliable?

Ans: Reliable nitrile rubber suppliers have a positive reputation in the market. They have good reviews across e-commerce and social media platforms. Besides, authentic suppliers provide test certificates and warranties. They have multiple testimonials from their clients. In addition, they have clear and transparent communication channels.

Neoprene vs NBR: Which is better for vibration dampening?

Ans: Neoprene is renowned for its vibration-dampening properties. It can reduce the frequency of vibration transmission. As a result, manufacturers use it to make anti-vibration mounts. It has applications in recording studios for soundproofing. On the other hand, nitrile can dampen vibration to a certain extent. But it is not as efficient as neoprene.

Are nitrile sheets resistant to all chemicals?

Ans: Nitrile sheets are resistant to almost a lot of acids, alkalis, solvents, and others. They have excellent resistance against Acetophenone, Acetyl Acetone, Acetyl Bromide, Acetyl Chloride, and others. However, they are vulnerable to some chemicals. They have negligible tolerance against Azobenzene, Benzene Hexachloride, Benzophenone, Boron Phosphate, and others.