Why Every Athlete Prefers Neoprene Rubber for Sportswear: Key Benefits Explained

 

Are you wondering why your natural rubber sheets are wearing out so quickly? 

Can you see signs of damage, such as stains, cracks, or swelling of the rubber sheets? Do you know the reasons behind it?

Little things you are doing regularly may have a large impact on your natural rubber sheets. Check out this blog to know:

User Guidelines: Avoid Using Natural Rubber Sheets in These Areas

Extremely High Operational Temperature

Natural rubber sheet temperature range for high temperatures is up to +70 degrees centigrade. Thus, areas having operational temperatures more than 70 degrees centigrade negatively impact the rubber sheets. The natural rubber sheeting starts to swell or melt in such high temperatures found in mining.

Extremely Low Operational Temperature

Natural rubber sheets can endure low temperatures up to -30 degrees centigrade. If you use them for operations that require lower temperatures, they tend to become brittle. Eventually, the natural rubber sheeting will start to crack and break down.

Excessive Pressure

Natural rubber sheeting has good mechanical strength. However, they cannot withstand extreme physical stress. In such a condition, the natural rubber sheet properties start to get diluted. They lose their elasticity and integration.

Chemical-Prone Applications

Natural rubber sheet has poor chemical resistance. Thus, in applications where strong acids, alkalis, or solvents are involved, they tend to get damaged. Natural rubber sheets may start to develop abnormalities in such exposure.

Marine Operations

Marine operations mean that there is extreme exposure to water and salt. Natural rubber sheeting starts to oxidize in such conditions. Besides, marine applications also mean involvement in ozone exposure. This speeds the oxidation process of the natural rubber sheets.

UV Rays & Ozone Exposure

UV rays and ozone can hamper the natural rubber sheet properties. The natural rubber sheets start to fade and harden. Gradually, with rapid hardening, these rubber sheets start to age and have a premature breakdown.

Oil-Prone Applications

Natural rubber sheets do not have great oil-resistance, just as Nitrile rubber sheets. With continuous exposure to oils or fuels, they start to degrade. As a result, uses of natural rubber sheets in the oil and gas sectors are limited.  

Food & Beverage Sectors

Natural rubber sheeting is usually not FDA-approved. Hence, using them in the food and beverage sectors can have risks. Natural rubber sheets, when in contact with food items, fluids, organic solvents, fats, and others, can produce toxic substrates. This can be harmful to human lives.

Medical and Pharmaceutical

Natural rubber sheets may not be safe for use in the medical and pharmaceutical industries. They cannot be used to make catheters, seals for vials, prosthetics, and others. However, they tend to cause allergic and toxic reactions in such cases.

High-voltage Areas

The uses of natural rubber sheets may include acoustic or thermal insulation to some extent. However, these rubber sheets cannot be used for electric insulation. Natural rubber sheeting does not have adequate dielectric strength or other properties to be used as protective equipment.

In a nutshell,  

It is true that natural rubber sheeting is versatile, but it is also true that it cannot be used everywhere. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for best practices. If you see any signs of damage, make sure to consult an expert immediately. Repair or replace your rubber sheets as per requirements.

Here are some interesting FAQs for you!

What is the standard color of NR rubber sheets?

Ans: The black natural rubber sheet is the most common type seen in the industries. However, there are also other available colors, such as blue or brick red. You can ask for customization in case of other requirements.

Where can I get NR rubber sheets at a discount?

Ans: You can choose to negotiate with your suppliers for discounts directly. Besides, you can also go for bulk purchases. The cost-per-unit of the rubber sheet decreases to a great extent in the case of bulk purchase, unlike retail purchase.

What are the available thicknesses of NR rubber sheets?

Ans: The natural rubber sheet thickness standards range from 3 mm to 25 mm. These rubber sheets are available in 3 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 10 mm, 12 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm, and 25 mm.

How is the mechanical strength of a natural rubber sheet?

Ans: NR rubber sheets have good mechanical strength. Their tensile strength ranges from 2 MPa to 25 MPa. In addition, the value for their elongation at break ranges from 150% to 750%. They have hardness between 38° Shore A to 80°± 5° Shore A.