Fluoroelastomer Specialists
Elastomers are widely used due to their relatively high strength, low abrasion rate, and resistance to water, oils, and other chemicals. The mechanical properties of elastomers, namely their tensile strength and hardness, can change over time when the product is sitting in storage. The storage environment will typically dictate the shelf life of a rubber product. Most rubbers are sensitive to temperature, light, oxygen, moisture, heat, and mechanical load during storage. These factors can prematurely age a rubber product, thus negatively affecting its service life either as a raw material or as a finished product.
When elastomeric products such as seals are stored for an extended period, they become aged. Naturally, the elastomer will undergo a series of changes that will alter its material properties over time. The molecular chains that make up the elastomer will degrade, a process that starts the day that the material is manufactured. In this article, we will explore how elastomers commonly used in seals can change over time from aging and the effect it has on seal performance. We will also present guidelines on best practices for handling and storing elastomeric products to ensure optimal service life.
Elastomers are natural or synthetic polymers that have elastic properties. The molecular chains that make up elastomers are held together by weak intermolecular forces. Generally, they have low Young’s modulus and high yield strength. They also have the unique property of regaining their original shape and size after being stretched or compressed. Many different types of elastomers can be found in seals such as natural butadiene rubber (NBR), Viton (FKM), silicone rubber (VMQ), or polyurethane (PU).
Read more: Effects of aging on elastomer seals
