Polyurethane Rubber
Polyurethane (PU or PUR) is a versatile material that can take many forms to complete a variety of applications. As a leading rubber manufacturer, REDCO typically works with polyester urethane (AU) and polyether urethane (EU). Both types of polyurethane rubber feature excellent wear resistance and high elasticity compared to other elastomers.
No matter your planned production, REDCO is ready to be your go-to custom rubber manufacturer. After confirming that PU rubber is the best material for your goals, we’ll manufacture and deliver the industry’s best USA-made polyurethane rubber parts on time, within budget, and matching every specification. Call 775-882-3100 today to learn more about how REDCO can support you as your one-stop shop for custom polyurethane products.
PU Rubber Properties
Originally created during World War II, polyurethanes are elastomeric polymers formed by a synthesis of poly-isocyanate and polyol. With such a diverse range of configurations, the properties of PUR will vary depending on your selected polyurethane material. Both EU and AU rubbers offer a range of hardnesses and low viscosity.
Not sure which polyurethane is best for your production? Let us know. In addition to standard PUR materials, REDCO also maintains an in-house developmental laboratory to provide custom rubber and elastomer compounding services.
Polyurethane Rubber Features
PU, EU, and AU rubber materials are easy to use, flexible, highly millable, and generally feature a simple mix ratio by volume. Other characteristics and features include:
- Specific Gravity: 1.05
- Tensile Strength, PSI—Reinforced: 4000
- Practical Shore A Hardness Range: 40-90
Benefits of Choosing PUR Materials
PU rubbers are well known for their excellent tensile and tear strength, outstanding abrasion resistance, and good coefficient of surface friction. They are generally resistant to ozone, hydrocarbons, moderate chemicals, fats, oils, and greases. Other benefits of polyurethane rubber include:
- Excellent compression set
- Excellent oxidation resistance
- Good resilience in high-heat and room temperatures
- Good permeability
- Good moisture resistance
- Good dielectric properties
- Fair to good heat resistance
- Fair atmosphere aging resistance
- Fair low-temperature flexibility
- Fair diluted acid resistance
Download our Properties of Rubber chart today to learn more about the benefits and advantages of choosing a PUR material for your rubber manufacturing production.
The Limitations of Polyurethane Rubber
While polyurethane rubber is a good fit for many industrial parts, it is only right for some components. PUR is generally attacked by concentrated acids, keystones, and chlorinated and nitro hydrocarbons. Polyurethanes typically have poor weatherability, making PUR products unideal for exposed environments. Additionally, polyurethane is highly flammable, and a different rubber material should be selected for applications requiring open flame.
Common Uses for PU Rubber
Polyurethane is ideal for a variety of manufacturing jobs. Typical applications are:
- Seals and gaskets
- Bumpers
- Coupling elements
- Custom rollers
- Wheels
- Conveyor belts
- And much more!
REDCO is the USA’s Leading Polyurethane Rubber Manufacturer
Why work with REDCO? We complete all orders in-house and under one roof at our USA facility. All testing and development, custom rubber molding, and other services are conducted on-site by our experts. With over 70 years in business and countless years of combined industry experience, our team is ready to tackle any challenge.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your operations. Request a quote to receive information specific to your order.
