Choosing the Best Elastomer
Selecting the right elastomer is essential to achieving long-lasting roller performance, chemical compatibility, and durability under demanding conditions. Each material offers unique strengths suited for specific industrial processes, temperature ranges, and chemical environments. We have provided an overview of some of the most commonly used elastomers and their advantages.
EPDM
Also known as EPT, EPDM offers exceptional resistance to ozone, weathering, and a wide range of chemicals, including ketones, oxygenated solvents, acids, UV-cured inks, and water. It can withstand temperatures up to 350°F, making it ideal for coating and other high-temperature applications requiring superior chemical stability.
Hypalon
Hypalon combines strong physical properties with outstanding resistance to ozone, alkalis, and acids. With heat resistance up to 300°F, it is commonly used in Corona treaters and other applications requiring durability in chemically aggressive or high-voltage environments.
Natural Rubber
Often underestimated, natural rubber provides excellent abrasion resistance, tear strength, and resiliency. It performs best in nip or conveyor applications with abrasive materials and is chemically compatible with esters, glycols, and ketones.
Neoprene
A versatile elastomer for general-purpose applications, neoprene offers a balance of mechanical strength, abrasion resistance, and chemical stability. It’s well-suited for mechanical rollers and flexographic systems using water-based inks.
Nitrile Family
Also known as NBR or Buna-N, nitrile resists oils, chemicals, and water. Carboxylated nitrile offers enhanced abrasion resistance and tensile strength, while hydrogenated nitrile provides superior resiliency and can handle higher heat than other nitrile types. Nitrile is commonly used for printing rolls and oil-resistant applications, though hydrogenated variants tend to be more expensive.
Polyurethane
Polyurethane rubber comes in two main types: polyester and polyether. Polyester polyurethane is tough with good chemical and solvent resistance, while polyether polyurethane performs better in water-contact applications. Polyurethane exhibits outstanding resistance to abrasion, cuts, wear, tear, and has very high tensile strength, making it ideal for mechanical rolls, wheels, and other high-abrasion applications.
Silicone
Silicone rubber excels in high-temperature applications (up to 500°F) and offers excellent release characteristics. It also effectively resists chemicals and ozone. Standard silicone has moderate wear resistance, but higher-strength formulations can improve abrasion resistance, albeit at a higher cost. Silicone is preferred for high-temperature and fast-release applications.