Why Does the "Grade" of a Neoprene Rubber Sheet Matter?

 

Did you know that selecting a neoprene rubber sheet of the right grade will give you improved performance?

Wondering why the last expert you were talking to was suggesting which grade to use? What happens when you don't listen to the suggestion? You can often find terms like "General purpose", "industrial grade", and "specialized grade". What do they mean?

Neoprene Rubber Sheet Grades: What is Their Significance?

Tensile Strength

The tensile strength of a neoprene rubber sheet ranges between 4 and 17 MPa. General-purpose neoprene rubber sheeting has low tensile strength. On the other hand, industrial grade has higher tensile strength, and specialized grade neoprene rubber sheet has the highest tensile strength.

Elongation at Break

A neoprene sheet has elongation at break ranging from 200 to 500%. General-purpose sheets have lower elongation at break than industrial-grade sheets. Whereas, a specialized neoprene rubber sheet has the highest value of elongation at break. As a result, it can sustain huge physical stress without breaking down.

Abrasion Resistance

The abrasion resistance of a general-purpose neoprene sheet is lower than that of an industrial grade. Whereas, a neoprene sheet of specialized grade has the highest resistance to abrasive materials. They do not easily wear out or tear with exposure to such materials.

Temperature Tolerance

Neoprene rubber sheet rolls can endure temperatures ranging from -30 degrees to +120 degrees centigrade. Superior grade has better endurance to extreme temperatures in the industries. A neoprene sheet of superior grade does not swell in high temperatures. Besides, it does not become brittle and crack in low temperatures.

Resistance to External Environmental Factors

Superior grades have high quality. As a result, the neoprene sheet will have remarkable resistance against external environmental factors. It does not disintegrate or rapidly age with exposure to UV rays, ozone, sunlight, water, and others.

Specific Gravity

You may require durability or flexibility for your industrial applications. The specific gravity of a neoprene rubber sheet ranges between 1.20 and 1.60 ± 0.05. It is different for different grades.

Neoprene rubber sheet manufacturers provide sheets with lower specific gravity for applications needing flexibility, elasticity, and low weight. On the other hand, the neoprene rubber sheet manufacturers provide sheets with a higher specific gravity for applications demanding higher strength, durability, and robustness.

Applications

When you ask experts, they will ask about your applications before recommending a grade. Why so? This is because different grades serve different applications. For basic applications such as padding and sealing, you can use general-purpose neoprene rubber sheeting.

Whereas, you can use an industrial-grade neoprene sheet for slightly demanding applications. In case of specific applications such as high-temperature or food-grade applications, you can use a specialized grade.

Cost Considerations

General-purpose neoprene sheets have lower prices than industrial-grade neoprene sheets. However, specialized grade has higher prices. Although a specialized neoprene rubber sheet has a higher price, it is cost-effective in the long run.

It does not require frequent repairs and replacements. As a result, it does not involve huge maintenance costs.

In a nutshell,

Some basic applications may not require specialized neoprene sheets. This can cost you more than required. Similarly, some applications may require industrial or specialized grade for their superior properties. This can ensure their durability and longevity in such demanding applications.

Hence, choosing the right grade of neoprene sheet is crucial. Make sure to consult a reliable expert and purchase as per their recommendation to make the most of it!

Check out these FAQs for more information!

Neoprene vs NBR: Which rubber sheet has better chemical resistance?

Ans: Although Neoprene has resistance against mild to moderate alkalis and acids, Nitrile rubber sheets have better chemical resistance. They are resistant to petroleum-based fuels, including petrol, diesel, and LPG. As a result, they are quite popular in the oil & gas sectors.

How to find reliable neoprene sheet suppliers?

Ans: You can use keywords to search for suppliers. You will get different websites of suppliers with detailed information about them. Besides, you can check listings of trade associations. You can also attend offline events to get reputable neoprene suppliers. In addition, you can always ask for a recommendation.

What is the color of neoprene sheeting?

Ans: Usually, manufacturers stock black neoprene rubber sheet rolls. However, if you do not want a black rubber sheet, you can ask for customization.

How to know if the neoprene rubber sheets are reliable?

Ans: When you are purchasing neoprene rubber sheets, make sure to ask for certifications. They should pass the tests and quality control checks. In addition, they should also come with warranty certifications. Their quality and performance must adhere to the industrial standards.