How To Choose The Right Type Of Rubber Sheet?

 

Classification and Selection of Rubber Sheets

Abstract

This paper systematically classifies rubber sheets based on material composition, functional properties, and structural characteristics, and provides a scientific selection methodology for engineering applications. Key parameters including environmental compatibility, mechanical properties, and regulatory compliance are discussed, supplemented by practical case studies and precautionary guidelines.

1. Types of Rubber Sheets

1.1 Classification by Base Material

 

1.2 Classification by Functional Properties

• Insulating Rubber Sheets:Electrical resistivity ≥10⁹ Ω·cm; used in power stations and laboratories (rated for 10kV, 35kV voltage classes).
• Conductive/Static-Dissipative Sheets:Surface resistance 10⁶–10⁹ Ω; critical for electronics manufacturing and data centers to prevent electrostatic discharge.
• Chemical-Resistant Sheets:Engineered for EPDM/FKM substrates; suitable for harsh environments (e.g., chemical storage, wastewater treatment).
• Abrasion-Resistant Sheets:High hardness (Shore A 70–90); ideal for heavy-duty applications (mining conveyor belts, industrial flooring).
• Flame-Retardant Sheets:Certified to UL94-V0 or equivalent standards; mandatory for public transport (subways, railways) and fire-sensitive infrastructure.

1.3 Classification by Structure/Appearance

• Smooth Surface Sheets:Used for precision sealing and gasketing due to uniform surface finish.
• Patterned Sheets:Textured surfaces (grid/stripe patterns) for anti-slip applications (stairs, wet areas, industrial floors).
• Reinforced Sheets:Laminated with fabric/fiberglass for enhanced load-bearing capacity; applied in high-pressure mechanical systems.

2. Selection Methodology for Rubber Sheets

2.1 Environmental Analysis

• Temperature Range:
  • Low-temperature (−50°C below): Prioritize NR or VMQ.
  • High-temperature (150°C above): Opt for FKM or VMQ (long-term) or EPDM (short-term).
• Contact Media:
  • Oil-based: NBR (moderate temperature) or FKM (high-temperature/high-corrosion).
  • Aqueous/chemical: EPDM (mild) or FKM (strong acids/alkalis).
  • Food/medical: VMQ with FDA/LFGB certification.
• Exposure Conditions:
  • Outdoor use: Select EPDM/CR for weather resistance; avoid NR due to rapid ozone degradation.

2.2 Mechanical Property Requirements

• Hardness (Shore A Scale):
  • 40–60A: Cushioning, low-pressure sealing.
  • 60–80A: General industrial applications (mats, conveyor belts).
  • 80–95A: Heavy-duty, high-wear environments (forklift pads, machinery linings).
• Mechanical Strength:
  • Tensile/tear resistance: Reinforced Sandwich sheets for high-load scenarios; pure rubber for low-stress use.
  • Compression set: Critical for seals—choose NBR/FKM (≤15% permanent deformation after 24h at 70°C).

2.3 Functional Performance Matching

• Electrical Requirements:
  • Insulation: Thickness ≥3mm for 10kV systems; verify GB/T 11548 compliance.
  • Electrostatic control: Surface resistivity 10⁶–10⁹ Ω for ESD-sensitive environments.
• Safety Standards:
  • Flame retardancy: UL94-V0 certification for transportation/infrastructure projects.
  • Environmental compliance: RoHS/REACH for EU markets; FDA for food contact.

2.4 Dimensional Specifications

• Thickness Grading:
  • Thin (0.5–3mm): Gaskets, precision seals.
  • Medium (3–10mm): General-purpose mats, lightweight buffers.
  • Thick (10–50mm): Heavy-load platforms, anti-vibration pads.
• Custom Fabrication:Standard sizes (1m×2m, 1.2m×2m) with custom cutting available for non-standard requirements.

2.5 Standard Compliance and Testing

• Key Standards:
  • Electrical insulation: GB/T 11548 (China), IEC 61111 (International).
  • Food safety: GB 4806.11 (China), FDA 21 CFR Part 177.2600 (USA).
• Qualification Testing:
  • Media resistance: Immerse samples in target fluids for 24h; acceptable volume change ≤10% (NBR in oil), ≤5% (FKM in acids).
  • Aging test: 72h at 70°C; tensile strength loss ≤20% for outdoor applications.

3. Application Case Studies

 

4. Best Practices and Pitfalls

4.1 Quality Assurance

• Virgin vs. Recycled Rubber:
  • Virgin rubber: Translucent (silicone), uniform texture; ideal for critical applications.
  • Recycled rubber: Avoid in industrial use due to poor mechanical properties and short lifespan.

4.2 Design Margins

• Temperature/speed limits: Apply 20% safety margin (e.g., select 250°C-rated FKM for 200°C continuous operation).
• Load-bearing capacity: Use finite element analysis (FEA) for high-stress applications to optimize thickness and reinforcement.

4.3 Regulatory Due Diligence

• Verify material certification (e.g., FDA, RoHS) with suppliers; request COA (Certificate of Analysis) for critical projects.

Conclusion

The selection of rubber sheets requires a systematic evaluation of environmental conditions, mechanical demands, and functional specifications. By aligning material properties with application requirements and adhering to international standards, engineers can achieve optimal performance, cost-efficiency, and service life.

Keywords: Rubber sheets; Material classification; Environmental resistance; Mechanical properties; Industrial applications

Formatting Notes:

1. Title Case: Used for section headings (1.1, 2.1, etc.).
2. Unit Consistency: Standard SI units (°C, Ω, mm) with metric-imperial conversions omitted for brevity.
3. Table Formatting: Centered tables with bold headers; vertical lines for clarity.
4. Abbreviations: First mention spelled out (e.g., Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)).
5. Citation Style: Prepared for potential IEEE/APA compliance (adjust references as needed for target journal).