Key Applications
Extruded rubber has multiple uses in the energy and power generation industry. From extruded rubber seals and insulation to vibration dampening, extruded rubber components play a critical role in the efficiency and safety of power generation.
Electrical Insulation
The energy industry relies heavily on extruded rubber parts for electrical insulation applications. Extruded rubber seals, bushings, connectors, mats, and rubber pipe gaskets are found throughout power and energy assemblies to ensure that energy is distributed and directed reliably. Extruded rubber insulation components protect workers from shock hazards and boost energy efficiency by preventing currents from dissipating or moving away from the desired pathway.
Extruded Seals and Gaskets
Extruded rubber seals and rubber pipe gaskets protect the internal components of energy and power assemblies like transformer doors from environmental stressors. This includes dust, moisture, and other irritants that may disrupt the flow and function of a given system.
Vibration Insulation
Power generators and transformers can generate considerable amounts of vibration while in service, which can be detrimental to sensitive components in a power or energy system. Extruded rubber vibration isolators, mounts, and pads protect delicate equipment from the effects of vibration, providing a dampening effect and absorbing shock without disrupting the function of the system.
Advantages of Rubber in Power Generation
As far as material choices are concerned, rubber offers several key advantages to the energy and power generation industry. An experienced rubber component manufacturer can advise on material selection for both extruded rubber parts and molded parts.
Durability
Rubber materials are durable and long lasting. Rubber can withstand mechanical stressors, such as shock and vibration, as well as environmental factors, such as moisture.
Flexibility
Rubber materials offer flexibility in both senses of the word. Rubber components can handle significant flexion and bending while in service without losing integrity. Additionally, customization options for rubber materials, from compounding to manufacturing methods, are virtually limitless.
Cost Effectiveness
With so many varieties of natural and synthetic rubber available at a variety of price points, companies have the luxury of choosing a compound that suits their budget and supports their financial goals.
Types of Rubber Used in Power Generation
The energy and power generation industry relies on a wide variety of rubber materials for insulation, vibration dampening, sealing, and other applications.
Silicone
Silicone is a common material choice for extruded rubber products. Silicone is an excellent insulator, providing reliable protection against current leakage. Silicone also exhibits high tensile strength and performs well at high temperatures, making it durable enough for harsh power generation environments, such as power plants, wind turbines, and solar farms. Extruded rubber seals, rubber pipe gaskets, and other insulation components are often made from silicone.
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) is an extremely durable material with excellent electrical insulation and vibration-dampening properties. EPDM is resistant to extreme temperatures, ozone exposure, and weathering, all attractive features for the energy and power generation industry. Additionally, EPDM is a valuable alternative to natural rubber compounds.
Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR)
Nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) is a highly versatile synthetic rubber. NBR is resistant to grease, oil, and a variety of petroleum-based chemicals and performs well at low temperatures. It’s a common material choice for extruded rubber seals and pipe gaskets.
Contact Universal Polymer & Rubber
Universal Polymer and Rubber (UP&R) is an experienced rubber extrusion manufacturer offering rubber molding and die cutting capabilities tailored to the unique needs of the power generation industry. We can help you make strategic decisions regarding material choice and design for your extruded rubber components destined for power and energy applications. We specialize in custom rubber components and can manufacture specialized parts for a wide range of power generation applications.
To learn more about our material and customization options and get started on a project, contact UP&R >