Rubber Material Standard material NR Natural rubber
NR - Natural Rubber
Natural rubber, also known as NR, is the only non-synthetic rubber and has been in commercial use since the early 1900s. It is a naturally occurring elastomer extracted in the form of latex from the Hevea Brasiliensis tree grown on plantations. Therefore, natural rubber has the advantage of being a renewable, biodegradable material making it a more environmentally friendly option compared to synthetic polymers which are manufactured from non-renewable raw materials.
Natural rubber is an elastomer known for its good fatigue resistance, making it an excellent choice for dynamically working components where the goal is to reduce vibrations and shocks in mechanical and industrial applications. Its long durability and ability to maintain its properties even under prolonged continuous use make it a suitable material for rubber dampers, tires, rubber sheeting, gaskets and rubber springs.
Natural rubber has low heat resistance and is susceptible to ozone attack which can be improved by adding, for example, antioxidants and antiozonants.
Characteristics
NR - Natural rubber / Isoprene rubber
Natural and isoprene rubber (NR / IR) have high elasticity and tensile strength as well as good abrasion and fatigue properties.
Ozone resistance is low but can be improved by adding, for example, antiozonants and protective waxes.
- Max temperature: 80°C
- Min. temperature: -50°C
- Tensile strength: 4
- Compression set at -30 to +70°C: 4
- Compression set at +70 to +150°C: 1
- Abrasion resistance: 4-5
- Oil and gasoline resistance: 1
- Weather and ozone resistance: 1-2
- Heat aging: 1-2
- Adhesion to metal: 4-5
- Adhesion to textiles: 4-5
Rating scale for table
5 - Excellent / 4 - Very good / 3 - Good / 2 - Fair / 1 - Poor
Rubber products in NR - Natural rubber
Below are some examples of products made from natural rubber:
Tires: Natural rubber is one of the most important components in tire manufacturing. Its elastic properties, low heat buildup and high resistance to abrasion make natural rubber the perfect choice for creating durable tires that can handle various road and weather conditions.
Industrial seals: Natural rubber is used for the production of various types of seals such as o-rings, v-rings and gaskets. NR's good elastic properties help prevent leakage and enable pressure control in various applications.
Rubber sheets and rubber mats: Natural rubber is also used in the production of rubber sheeting and rubber mats. Often with the purpose of reducing slip hazards and protecting surfaces from wear and liquids. These products are often used in industrial and commercial environments such as warehouses, restaurants and sports facilities.
Rubber band products: Elastic bands and rubber bands are products typically made from natural rubber. The products are used in a range of applications, from office supplies to industrial environments, where the elastic properties of natural rubber are utilized under various loads.
Rubber gloves Natural rubber is used in the manufacturing of, for example, disposable gloves and industrial protective gloves. NR's biocompatibility makes it a suitable material for protecting hands in medical and industrial environments.
Rubber springs: Rubber springs used in the automotive and transportation industries are often made of natural rubber. The function of rubber springs is to absorb and reduce vibrations and shocks which improves comfort and safety during travel and transportation.
These are just a few examples of all the products made from natural rubber. Natural rubber's elastic properties, wear resistance and resistance to external environmental influences make it the obvious material of choice for many products.