The Different Types of Rubber Sheets

Table of Contents

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With the many types of rubber sheets available for sale, it's difficult to decipher which rubber sheets are appropriate for your particular application. The fact of the matter is that there are so many rubber compounds that can be combined with other rubber materials to create a product that offers you precisely what you need. It becomes confusing what exactly each compound is good for, and it is crucial to use the right blend of materials to accommodate its intended use. As one of the top rubber sheets suppliers for decades, Rubber-Cal has the unique knowledge and skillset that instantiates its authority as a rubber expert. We have grown our catalogue of rubber sheeting to include products fitting every industry. And it's a given that we evolve alongside technology'we continuously develop our products to stay at the competitive fore, never relinquishing our commitment to serve our customers.

Silicone ' Commercial Grade Blue ' 60A ' 1/32' x 36'

Length Silicone - Commercial Grade Black - 50A - 1/8" x 36" quantity

Silicone ' Commercial Grade Black ' 50A ' 1/8' x 36'

$147.90 ' $1,048.00

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Length Silicone - Commercial Grade Blue - 50A - 1/8" x 36" quantity

Silicone ' Commercial Grade Blue ' 50A ' 1/8' x 36'

$147.90 ' $1,048.00

Some Sizes are Out of Stock.Free Shipping On Orders Over $99
Custom Cut Parts? Call 1-844-Rubber-4

Length Silicone - Commercial Grade Brown - 50A - 1/16" x 36" quantity

Silicone ' Commercial Grade Brown ' 50A ' 1/16' x 36'

$85.40 ' $605.00

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Custom Cut Parts? Call 1-844-Rubber-4

Length Silicone - Commercial Grade Red/Orange - 50A - Metric - 2mm x 36" quantity

Silicone ' Commercial Grade Red/Orange ' 50A ' Metric ' 2mm x 36'

$96.05 ' $680.00

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What Are Rubber Sheets Used For?

Rubber sheets are used for many applications, including those in the industrial, commercial, and residential sectors. Because there are so many types of rubber sheets'each with its own strengths'they are selected according to their strengths. This makes them a highly versatile tool'fitting most situations if chosen thoughtfully. When working within a laboratory setting, you may prioritize obtaining an elastic rubber sheet that is durable and chemically-resistant. To the local pet owner, though, abrasion- and ozone-resistant rubber rolls are definitely more important. And in a food processing facility, grease- and oil-resistance take center stage. Now that you know what are rubber sheets used for, another question remains: What are different types of rubbers?

What Are Different Types of Rubbers?

Neoprene, SBR, TPR, EPDM, nitrile, silicone, natural rubber, and recycled/reclaimed rubbers are the most commonly sold types of rubber sheets.  The different types of rubbers are all the types of rubber sheets that have become available to consumers. There are many types of rubber sheets, and each one has its own exemplary qualities. To get a better understanding of the different types of rubber sheets, let's take a look at the compounds that compose the types of rubber sheets.

Thickness Closed Cell Rubber - Blend - 39" x 78" - Adhesive Backed quantity

Closed Cell Rubber ' Blend ' 39' x 78' ' Adhesive Backed

$36.90 ' $288.93

Some Sizes are Out of Stock.Free Shipping On Orders Over $99 Custom Cut Parts? Call 1-844-Rubber-4

Thickness Closed Cell Rubber - EPDM - 39" x 78" quantity

Closed Cell Rubber ' EPDM ' 39' x 78'

$23.56 ' $374.42

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Length EPDM - Commercial Grade - 60A - 1/16" x 36" quantity

EPDM ' Commercial Grade ' 60A ' 1/16' x 36'

$37.20 ' $270.50

Some Sizes are Out of Stock.Free Shipping On Orders Over $99 Custom Cut Parts? Call 1-844-Rubber-4

Thickness Open Cell Rubber - EPDM - 39" x 78" quantity

Open Cell Rubber ' EPDM ' 39' x 78'

$45.91 ' $364.70

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How Many Types of Rubbers Are There?

All told, there are eight common types of rubbers out there: neoprene, SBR, TPR, EPDM, nitrile, silicone, natural rubber, and recycled/reclaimed rubber. But, note that there isn't an absolute answer to the question 'how many types of rubbers are there?' Some people like to lump multiple subsets of rubber into one category, while others argue that eight categories is far too limiting. In any case, following this section is a list of compounds out of which the rubber sheets are made. We'll go through different sheet rubber products and rubber sheets for sale, assessing rubber sheeting material. While doing so, we'll also use Rubber-Cal as the main example of a rubber sheet supplier.

All About Neoprene

Is Neoprene Resistant to Oil

Neoprene ' Commercial Grade ' 45A ' 1/32' x 36'

Soft and Flexible: This class of synthetic rubber (45 durometer) is among the softest and most flexible elastomers available on the market. When an application calls for a flexible gasket part, soft neoprene is the way to go. Although this level of flexibility comes with a sacrifice of some resistance to physical abrasions, this rubber can still handle a moderate amount of abrasions. However, it is far more suited for non-abrasive purposes.

Chemical Resistant Material: Our soft black neoprene sheets are excellent for resisting chemicals. Given its softer nature, it is better suited to light and regular commercial applications that involve chemicals like certain salts, acids, and gases. The material will not degrade in their presence, and by extension, neither will your machine or application.

Moderate Oil Resistance: Neoprene rubber is known for exhibiting a moderate level of resistance against oil and other petroleum based solvents. This feature is very useful in case you want to use the elastomer for light automotive applications that sees the presence of a moderate amount of oil and grease. While not recommended for heavy oil use, soft neoprene will hold its own when exposed to regular, non-excessive amounts.

More Benefits:

• Operating temperature range: -20° F to 212° F
• Sheets of neoprene offered in custom lengths
• Features a better level of resistance against ozone and weathering

Thickness Closed Cell Rubber - EPDM - 39" x 78" quantity

Closed Cell Rubber ' EPDM ' 39' x 78'

$23.56 ' $374.42

Stocked Sizes Ship in 24 Hours!Free Shipping On Orders Over $99 Custom Cut Parts? Call 1-844-Rubber-4

Thickness Closed Cell Rubber - Neoprene - 39" x 78" quantity

Closed Cell Rubber ' Neoprene ' 39' x 78'

$25.36 ' $403.40

Some Sizes are Out of Stock.Free Shipping On Orders Over $99
Custom Cut Parts? Call 1-844-Rubber-4

Length Neoprene - Commercial Grade - 45A - 1/16" x 36" quantity

Neoprene ' Commercial Grade ' 45A ' 1/16' x 36'

$64.70 ' $470.50

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Length Neoprene - Commercial Grade - 60A - 1/32" x 36" quantity

Neoprene ' Commercial Grade ' 60A ' 1/32' x 36'

$24.65 ' $179.50

Some Sizes are Out of Stock.Free Shipping On Orders Over $99 Custom Cut Parts? Call 1-844-Rubber-4

When a rubber product is made using a certain compound, that product is imbued with the compound's innate properties. Thus, different types of rubber rolls can have different physical characteristics'such as varying gradations of tensile strength and of hardness. Tensile strength refers to the amount of pressure that can be applied to the material before it tears. It's measured in PSI and is vital information to those looking for a material that can handle extreme pressures. On the other hand, hardness measures rubber rolls' ability to withstand indentation from physical force. Hardness is measured using a durometer, and it lets consumers know how resistant something is to any sort of indentation. Without further ado, let's dive into the different compounds that go into making the many types of rubber sheets:

• Neoprene: Among the most popular of the compounds offered, neoprene is a polymer that has certain qualities desirable to many applications. Products such as Rubber-Cal's Hard Neoprene Blend are commonly used in sound studios, in gasketing, and in industrial padding. In particular, neoprene sheet rubber products usually have moderate levels of chemical-, UV-, and ozone-resistance. Because of this, neoprene rubber products are often used in outdoor applications. Amongst rubber materials, neoprene rubber's versatility is generally unmatched.
• SBR (styrene butadiene rubber): Considered to be a general-purpose rubber, SBR is a compound that offers exceptional abrasion-resistance and moderate UV-, ozone-, and chemical-resistance. You tend to see SBR-rubber products used for general-purpose applications, such as flooring. Products like Rubber-Cal's Red Rubber Sheet are just some examples of SBR-rubber products.
• TPR (thermoplastic rubber): TPR is a blend of plastic and rubber, and it retains properties unique to both of its main ingredients. TPR is primarily known for its extreme temperature-resistance (hence thermo-plastic). But it also provides moderate chemical-resistance. Thus, industrial environments that work with extreme heat and, potentially, chemicals are the typical places you'll see TPR products in play. Rubber-Cal's Santoprene Thermoplastic Elastomer is a great example of a TPR product; it's used for various automotive and electrical applications.
• EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer): This highly-coveted compound is among the best in terms of weather-resistance. With unparalleled UV- and ozone- resistance, it excels in outdoor areas. Not to mention, it's also extremely durable'great for a heavy-duty rubber sheet. Rubber-Cal's EPDM Blend takes EPDM rubber to the next level, though, imbuing extra chemical-resistance into this elastic rubber sheet product.
• Nitrile (NBR): Another well-known compound in the rubber industry, nitrile rubber is highly resistant versus oils, chemicals, abrasions, and impact. This rubber material is commonly used in bumpers, pads, and gaskets'just to name a few.

X-Derm ' Textured Recycled Rubber ' 60A ' 1.5mm x 36'

X-Derm ' Textured Recycled Rubber ' 60A ' 1.5mm x 36'

• Good for resisting water
• Medium durometer of 55-65, offering more flexibility
• Recycled tire rubber gives this sheet enhanced weather resistance
• Recycled rubber material can function in temperatures as high as 170° F
• Ideal for applications such as indoor and outdoor surfacing, equipment mats, industrial liners, and more

Eco-Friendly Rubber: Given its recycled nature, this product is an eco-friendly alternative to other synthetic rubbers. It is made from recycled tire rubber. By using the rubber harvested from vehicle tires, it helps reduce the presence of non-biodegradable waste in the ecosystem. The additional benefits of a recycled rubber product that directly affect you are twofold. First, it is ultimately a more affordable product than its synthetic rubber counterparts. Secondly, thanks to the durable tire rubber used to make these sheets, they feature good durability against physical abrasions.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Class 0 Rubber Foam Sheet.

Surface Texture for Traction: This rubber texture sheet comes with a coarse and bumpy surface design that is meant to enhance traction. Traction is very important for any sheet that can be used as a runner or walkway. It enhances the grip and stability for those who are walking on top of the sheet. This eco-friendly rubber runner sheet can help make any commercial or industrial walkway a much safer place.

Length General Purpose Rubber - 60A - 1/2" x 36" quantity

General Purpose Rubber ' 60A ' 1/2' x 36'

$250.00 ' $909.25

Stocked Sizes Ship in 24 Hours!Free Shipping On Orders Over $99 Custom Cut Parts? Call 1-844-Rubber-4

Length General Purpose Rubber - 60A - 1/8" x 36" quantity

General Purpose Rubber ' 60A ' 1/8' x 36'

$63.05 ' $458.50

Stocked Sizes Ship in 24 Hours!Free Shipping On Orders Over $99 Custom Cut Parts? Call 1-844-Rubber-4

Recycled Rubber ' 60A

$67.00 ' $1,200.00

Some Sizes are Out of Stock.Volume Discounts for 50 ft + Purchases
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Length X-Derm - Textured Recycled Rubber - 60A - 1.5mm x 36" quantity

X-Derm ' Textured Recycled Rubber ' 60A ' 1.5mm x 36'

$36.90 ' $295.00

Some Sizes are Out of Stock.Free Shipping On Orders Over $99 Custom Cut Parts? Call 1-844-Rubber-4

• • Silicone: Silicone rubber's defining characteristic is that it offers excellent temperature- and chemical-resistance. Rubber-Cal's Silicone Commercial Grade is a prime example of how this compound is used to make rubber products that can withstand high-temperature and chemically-volatile applications.
  • NR (natural rubber): Natural rubber is harvested from rubber trees, and it features the elasticity that rubber is known for. Typically mixed with other compounds to form various types of rubber sheets, natural rubber is the compositional core that gives most rubber products their basic elasticity, durability, and resiliencies.
  • Recycled/reclaimed rubber: Recycled and reclaimed rubbers are eco-friendly rubber materials that are highly durable and are resistant to weathering. These recycled and reclaimed rubber sheets are often combined with other compounds to expand their functionality. From Rubber-Cal's famous Elephant Bark series to the well-known X-Derm line'this rubber material is highly multi-functional, an appropriate fit for many applications. And the fact that this rubber material is environmentally friendly is a huge plus.

With a better grasp of the various types of rubber sheets that populate the rubber market, you can now make an informed decision about the types of rubber sheets that suit your needs. As one of the world's leading sheet rubber suppliers, we at Rubber-Cal hope that we've helped guide you toward the best solutions to your elastic rubber sheet needs. With our vast selection of rubber rolls, we are confident that we can give you with the right products at the best prices. So, next time you need help making an informed decision, don't hesitate: Call Rubber-Cal to consult one of our many experts. As always, it is a privilege to make our customers happy.

Pipe Insulation Types

There is a wide range of Pipe Insulation Types available.  This guide will explain the most suitable types of insulation for the most common applications.

Before you choose the type of Insulation, you'll need to know two crucial factors - your pipe bore (the diameter) and the thickness of the insulation you require ("the wall thickness")

1. Pipe Bore (Diameter)

The pipe diameter (or bore) can be measured in imperial sizes (in inches) or metric sizes (in mm).  For insulation purposes, both measurements refer to the outside diameter (O.D) of the pipe.

When measuring steel pipe, it is important to remember that the OD measurement will be higher than the actual internal bore size - this is because the steel pipe has a substantial thickness of several mm.  For instance, a steel pipe with a 25 mm bore, will have an outside diameter (OD) of 34 mm. This method does not apply to copper pipe.

2. Insulation Thickness (Wall Thickness)

All of our pipe insulation products are available in some different thicknesses (also referred to as wall thickness).  As a rule of thumb - thicker insulation = less heat loss from pipes and greater protection from freezing temperatures.

For outdoor pipework, we recommend a minimum insulation thickness of 19mm.

Insulation Types: 

Grey Foam Insulation -  Armacell Tubolit

Our most economically priced Insulation.  Tubolit is made from grey polyethene foam, the insulation is ideal for use in domestic pipework and plumbing.  It is available in all of the standard internal pipe sizes and is available in several wall thicknesses.  The insulation is supplied in either one or two-metre lengths and comes semi-split for ease of installation.  This insulation is not suitable for outdoor use.

Class O Nitrile Foam Rubber Insulation -  Armaflex 

Class O Insulation is a flexible, closed cell, elastomeric, nitrile rubber insulation that offers reliable protection against condensation and effectively prevents energy loss. It is available in some formats including 2-metre unsplit tubes, long coils, sheets and also as a pre-slit self-seal tube that reduces installation times by up to 30%. The insulation is very versatile and can be used in a wide range of applications including domestic, plumbing and air conditioning.  Class O insulation (The class O refers to the fire standard) can be used on hot pipes up to a temperature of 105 degrees Celsius.  For temperatures above this (up to 150 degrees), an EPDM rubber insulation would be more suitable (see below).

*Class O insulation can be used outdoors but will require further protection from UV exposure, such as one of the Armafinish Paints.  Without additional protection, the insulation will eventually crack and crumble.

EPDM Foam Rubber Insulation - Armaflex HT 

EPDM rubber insulation is ideal for outdoor, high temperature and solar pipework use.  The insulation has an in-built UV protective layer, meaning it can be installed outside without any further treatment or coverings.  This insulation is also suitable for high-temperature pipework (up to 150 degrees Celsius), making it ideal for use on solar heating systems.  The insulation is available in 2 metre unsplit tube lengths, long coils and flat sheets in a range of wall thicknesses.  For outdoor use, we recommend a minimum insulation wall thickness of 19mm.

Mineral Fibre Insulation - Foil Coated - Rockwool

Rockwool Insulation is designed for use in heating, ventilation and air conditioning applications; mineral fibre insulation can withstand temperatures of up to 700 degrees Celsius.  The insulation is provided as mineral fibre insulation sections which have a factory applied foil covering with an integral adhesive overlap.  This feature dramatically speeds up installation times.  The insulation can be used either indoors or outdoors.  *If used outdoors, however, an additional protective covering sheet known as Polyisobutylene (PIB) needs to be applied.

Phenolic Foam Insulation - Foil Covered - Kingspan Kooltherm

Want more information on rubber foam insulation? Feel free to contact us.