What are elastomeric materials?

What are elastomeric materials?

Elastomeric materials, taken from elastic polymer, are rubbery materials that will retain their shape after being stretched. When force is applied to these materials, they can be stretched in the direction that they are being pulled and will return to normal immediately after the application of force has ceased.

Image Credit

Elastomeric materials

The following are elastomeric materials that have rubber/elastic properties:

Foam

Foam is an open-cell material that is generally used in insulation as well as filtration. Foam is typically low density, so air can move freely, but high-density foams are being manufactured for use in sealant where creating a moisture barrier is imperative.

Sponge

Sponge is an expanded material with rubber properties. It can be manufactured to create varying densities. The cells are not connected, so the sponge will not retain fluid. Applications for sponge are found in the mechanical industry.

Image Credit

Rubber

Rubber can be classified as either natural or synthetic, with natural types coming from the rubber tree. There are synthetic varieties that have rubber properties. It is a solid elastomeric material with many uses. Rubber materials have been manufactured order prednisone online with applications for use where fluid, temperature and pressure resistance are important. Rubber can be manufactured with varying degrees of reinforcement. Rubber is used in the construction sector in particular as EPDM in roofing with high levels of success and adaptability. It is also used by silicone hose manufacturers such as https://www.goodflexrubber.com/pages/silicone-hose-manufacture.

O-Rings

These are designed to create a barrier between two objects where fluid or air may escape. They are squeezed into a groove between two opposing surfaces and will expand to their original shape, ensuring that there is a seal in place. They can be used for may applications depending on potential degradation.

EMI shielding/Thermal management

EMI shielding has been developed as a way of containing the frequencies of all the electrical devices we now use in our modern lifestyles. Electrical insulation, enclosures and cables are designed to prevent electromagnetic interference.

Thermal management requires optimum flow between the power source and the heat base, and rubber is the perfect material to do so. It is thermally conducive, so it allows for continuity inside the component.

Cork/rubber

Useful in metal-to-metal joints, the compression from the material is ideal for reducing slippage. Because they are sponged, they will adapt to any surface during application.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *