Rubber products are used in a broad range of industries, from agriculture and aerospace to chemical, construction, and textiles. In fact, it is one of the most commonly used materials with countless applications. Rubber plays an essential role in ensuring safety, efficiency, and durability, thanks to its unique properties.
In this complete guide, we will dive deep into:
- What makes rubber indispensable in industrial settings?
- How is rubber used in industrial settings?
5 Qualities that Make Rubber Indispensable in Industrial Settings
The main reason why rubber is so widely used across industries and is almost irreplaceable is because of its unique qualities. These include:
1. Elasticity
One of the first things to come to mind when any individual thinks of rubber is elasticity as if they are synonymous. The ability of rubber to stretch and expand and then be able to return to its original form is an essential characteristic of a lot of rubber products. For instance, conveyor belts, fan belts, floor mats, and O-rings.
2. Water and Weather Resistance
Another interesting fact about rubber is that it is excellent at resisting water and weather. It withstands outdoor environments very well, which makes it suitable for roofing materials.
3. Insulation
Rubber is also a good insulator. It has high resistance to electrical current. This means that electricity struggles to pass through it. Additionally, it resists heat transfer, which makes it useful in automotive components and manufacturing materials that minimize heat loss.
4. High Friction
Besides being resistant to heat and electricity, rubber is non-slippery. Its high coefficient of friction offers excellent traction, which prevents slips and falls. Thus making it effective for us as floor mats as seen in gymnasiums. Additionally, it makes for reliable industrial grips that ensure the secure handling of heavy machinery.
5. Chemical Resistance
Rubber finds its application in storage tanks, chemical processing plants, protective gloves, and industrial aprons for use with hazardous materials. Why? That’s because rubber is resistant to chemicals, acids, and alkalis.
How Is Rubber Used In Industrial Settings?
Following the unique characteristics of rubber, let’s take a look at the various ways in which rubber products manufacturers think of rubber uses for industrial settings.
1. Sealing and Gaskets
Seals are components designed to block the passage of liquid or gases between two parts. They are used to keep fluids contained within systems like hydraulic circuits. Similarly, gaskets are placed between two components to create a tight, leak-proof barrier. They are important in systems that maintain pressure.
Rubber’s flexibility and elasticity make it possible to maintain the integrity of such systems to ensure they operate under safe conditions and with optimal performance.
2. Vibration and Shock Absorption
Heavy machinery often generates a lot of vibration. One of the characteristics of rubber is that it is an excellent absorber of vibrations and sounds. Rubber product manufacturers create products such as mounts, pads, and isolators to absorb the vibrations let out by machines. Consequently, they not only protect sensitive components but also reduce wear and tear.
3. Conveyor Systems and Belts
Conveyor systems are mechanical systems that are used in industries to transport materials and products from one place to another. One of the most significant components of this system is called the conveyor belt. They are the moving parts of the system, which often carry heavy loads and operate under continuous and often harsh conditions.
Rubber products manufacturers make these conveyor belts from rubber, given their resistance to heat, excellent durability, and elasticity. Consequently, these belts are made to last.
4. Electrical Insulation
Rubber product manufacturers also use rubber to create electrical insulation. Since rubber does not conduct electricity, that is, it stops electricity from passing through it, it is an excellent material for rubber sleeves and boots. Additionally, they are used to create gloves for workers who handle electrical equipment.
5. Rubber Flooring and Mats
Another application and opportunity for rubber products manufacturers lies in the manufacturing of flooring and mats. In industrial environments, non-slip surfaces reduce the chances of workplace accidents. Moreover, it reduces the fatigue of the workers who stand long hours and help cushion falls. Thus making rubber floors and mats a common sight in industrial setups.
Conclusion
The ability of rubber products to seal, cushion, and insulate can mean the difference between smooth operations and costly downtime. However, in order to actually benefit from rubber products, you must partner with a reliable rubber products manufacturer.
Shree Rubber Works has been a leading rubber products manufacturer since 1987. We cater to a variety of industries with our diverse portfolio of products, ranging from moulded items, extruded products and hose pipes to rubber expansion joints and rubber sheets. We are a proud manufacturer of critical products for the Indian Navy.
So, if you are aiming to invest in high-quality, highly efficient, and durable rubber products, get in touch with Shree Rubber Works, the leading manufacturer of rubber products in India.