natural rubber gaskets/pads
It surprises me slightly, just slightly that we have posted over 220 blogs, but we have never discussed natural rubber. Natural rubber is called that because it was the first type of rubber discovered when the fateful Charles Goodyear accidentally dropped his natural rubber onto the stove with sulfur(sulfur is a curing agent, catalyst) in 1839. This vulcanized the rubber, and yureeka, natural rubber was created.
Where does Natural Gum Rubber come from?
Natural Rubber comes from the Hevea Brasilensis Tree in countries like Thailand, or Malaysia. Its drawn similar to a process like sap for Maple Syrup.
Information on Natural Rubber Products (Gum Rubber)
Natural Rubber (Gum) is a good water seal. Naturally, there became, natural rubber gaskets. It comes in a few durometers. Natural Rubber can be a good general purpose seal. During World War II, a serious shortage was encountered. This led to the rubber environment we have now, with a litany of different rubber products including SBR, and other synthetic rubbers. Today, we have Neoprene, Silicone, Fluorosilicone, Viton, and the list goes on.
Properties of Natural Rubber Gaskets/Pads
-Good vacuum sealing
-Good Abrasion Resistance
-Good Anti-Vibration Properties
-Good use for Sealing water
-Good low temperature compression set resistance
-Poor resistance to chemicals, ozone, or other strenuous environments.
-Typically compliant to the contact to food specification 21 CFR 177.2600
Applications for Natural Rubber Gaskets/Gum Rubber
-Moderate temperature ranges such as -60°F to 220°F.
-Water Sealing
-Tires on cars
-Airbags in cars
-Flooring
-Erasers
Possible Designations/Specifications for Natural Rubber Gaskets/Pads (NR)
-ASTM D2000 BA
-ASTM D2000 AA
-FDA 21 CFR 177.2600
More Information on Natural Rubber Gaskets/Pads
NEDC die-cuts, and waterjet cuts these materials into natural rubber gaskets, and pads. Natural Gum Rubber either comes in black, or the natural tan, off yellow color(light tan). We can supply natural gum rubber in a number of thicknesses ranging from 1/64’’ to .500’’. In addition, we can supply adhesive backing to aid in assembly since we are a 3M converter. For more information on natural rubber, please contact sales@nedc.com.