SantopSeal Nov 2024

2. EASY WAYS TO MAINTAIN YOUR EXTRUDED RUBBER ITEMS Maintaining extruded rubber items is essential to ensuring their longevity and performance. Whether it's rubber seals, gaskets, hoses, or other components, these items often face harsh environments and demanding usage. Proper care can prevent premature wear and tear, saving money on replacements and downtime. Here are easy and effective ways to maintain your Extruded Rubber Products.

3. 1. Regular Cleaning Extruded rubber items, such as seals and gaskets, often come into contact with dust, dirt, and other contaminants that can deteriorate the material over time. Regular cleaning is a simple yet effective way to maintain these items and extend their lifespan. How to clean rubber components: Use mild soap and water to remove dirt and grime. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can break • down the rubber material. For tougher contaminants like grease or oil, use a soft cloth or sponge with a diluted solution of • isopropyl alcohol. Rinse with clean water afterward. For rubber that is exposed to harsh chemicals or industrial environments, use specialized rubber • cleaners that do not degrade the material. After cleaning, ensure the rubber is fully dry to prevent mold or mildew growth, particularly in seals • or items that may be in constant contact with moisture.

4. 2. Avoid Excessive Heat Exposure Rubber is sensitive to extreme temperatures, particularly heat. Excessive heat exposure can cause rubber to become brittle, crack, or lose its flexibility, which can significantly reduce its effectiveness in sealing or absorbing vibrations. How to protect against heat damage: Keep rubber items away from direct sunlight, which can cause ultraviolet (UV) radiation damage, • leading to cracks and hardening. If the rubber component is part of an industrial machine, ensure that it's not exposed to prolonged • high temperatures. Implement cooling systems or barriers to minimize heat exposure. Use heat-resistant rubber materials in applications where high temperatures are unavoidable, such • as EPDM rubber or silicone, which are known for their heat resistance.

5. 3. Proper Storage When not in use, how you store your rubber items plays a crucial role in their maintenance. Improper storage can lead to premature degradation, even if the items are not in active use. Storage tips: Store rubber items in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. • Keep them in a sealed container or wrapped in a protective covering to prevent exposure to • dust, moisture, and ozone, which can deteriorate rubber. Avoid storing rubber components near electrical equipment, as the ozone generated by • electrical currents can cause rubber to crack or degrade over time. If possible, store rubber items flat or in their natural shape. Bending or folding them for prolonged periods can cause deformities and reduce their ability to return to their original shape.

6. 4. Lubrication and Conditioning Rubber items that are constantly moving or in contact with other surfaces, like seals or gaskets, can benefit from regular lubrication. This helps reduce friction, which can cause the rubber to wear down faster. Best practices for lubrication: Use silicone-based lubricants, as these are safe for rubber and help retain the material's elasticity. • Avoid petroleum-based products, as these can break down rubber over time. Apply a thin layer of lubricant to the surface of the rubber, especially in moving parts, such as seals • in machinery or vehicles. Reapply lubricant regularly, particularly after cleaning the rubber component or when signs of • drying or cracking appear. In addition to lubrication, consider using rubber conditioning products. These help rejuvenate old or worn rubber by restoring some of its flexibility and preventing further cracking or drying out.

7. 5. Inspect for Wear and Damage Regular inspection of your extruded rubber items can help catch signs of wear before they become critical. This proactive approach can save time and money by preventing failures that could lead to more extensive damage or system breakdowns. Inspection tips: Look for visible cracks, splits, or deformations in the rubber surface. • Check for areas where the rubber has become harder or more brittle than normal, as this is a sign • of aging. Pay attention to any changes in the performance of the rubber item. For example, if a rubber seal • is no longer providing a proper seal, it may need to be replaced or repaired. Inspect for signs of chemical damage, such as discoloration, swelling, or softening, which could • indicate exposure to incompatible substances. If any of these issues are present, it may be time to replace the component or consult a specialist to see if the rubber can be repaired or reconditioned.

8. 6. Use Compatible Rubber Types Using the right type of rubber for the application is key to ensuring its longevity. Different rubbers have varying resistances to heat, chemicals, and environmental factors, so choosing the right one is essential for maintenance. Common types of rubber: Natural Rubber (NR): Known for its flexibility and resilience, but not suitable for high heat or • chemical exposure. EPDM Rubber: Excellent for outdoor applications and resistant to heat, weather, and ozone. Great • for seals and gaskets. Silicone Rubber: Known for its ability to withstand extreme temperatures, making it ideal for high- • heat environments. Nitrile Rubber (NBR): Resistant to oils and fuels, commonly used in automotive and industrial • applications. By selecting the right rubber for the environment in which it will be used, you can prevent premature wear and ensure that it will last longer with minimal maintenance.

9. 7. Protect Against Ozone Exposure Ozone, a reactive form of oxygen, can be particularly damaging to rubber. Even in low concentrations, it can cause rubber to crack and degrade over time. Rubber items exposed to outdoor air, industrial machinery, or electrical equipment are particularly vulnerable. How to protect rubber from ozone damage: Store rubber items in sealed containers or protective bags to minimize exposure to ozone in the air. • Consider using ozone-resistant rubber, such as EPDM, which is designed to withstand exposure to • ozone and weathering. For rubber components in industrial environments, install air filters or ozone destruct systems to • reduce the concentration of ozone in the surrounding air.

10. 8. Replace When Necessary Even with the best maintenance practices, rubber items will eventually wear out. Knowing when to replace them is crucial for maintaining the performance of your equipment or system. When to replace extruded rubber items: If you notice significant cracks, splits, or deformations that cannot be repaired. • When the rubber has lost its flexibility and has become brittle or hard. • If the component is no longer providing the necessary seal or protection, even after cleaning or • conditioning. Maintaining extruded rubber items is a simple process that can have a significant impact on their lifespan and performance. Regular cleaning, proper storage, lubrication, and careful inspection will help keep your rubber components in top condition for years to come.

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