What Is Rubber Extrusion?
Rubber extrusion is a specialized rubber manufacturing process for creating custom components. A rubber extruder forces heated, uncured rubber through an extruder die to create a continuous rubber shape with a specialized profile. The shape is later cured and cut to length depending on the application. Rubber extrusion is often the manufacturing method of choice for long shapes, such as trims, window frames, seals, and tubing.
Universal Polymer and Rubber (UP&R) has years of rubber extrusion experience. We have honed our rubber manufacturing processes over the decades to ensure unbeatable quality and precision, every time.
Rubber Extrusion Process
Critical thinking and strategic decisions at every stage of the rubber extrusion process contribute to a superior final product.
Material Selection and Preparation
Before the extrusion process even begins, a vital first step is to evaluate the service environment of the final product. An extruded rubber product may encounter extreme temperatures, abrasion, fluid exposure, and other variables while in service. As an experienced rubber extrusion supplier, UP&R can help you choose a material that can withstand environmental conditions, meet your criteria regarding performance attributes, and behave predictably in the extrusion environment.
Feeding and Heating
Heating the uncured rubber for extrusion requires the rubber extrusion supplier to take a balanced approach to achieve a consistency that flows smoothly without becoming too soft to work with. Barrel temperatures may need to be adjusted while the rubber extruder is running. Some rubber extruders are equipped with multiple heating zones to ensure consistent temperature. And the material must be fed through the extruder die at a controlled pace to ensure a consistent extruded rubber shape.
Shaping and Cooling
The rubber material inside the rubber extruder is shaped when it moves through the extruder die, which is often precision-cut to ensure exact dimensions. The material must then be carefully cooled to preserve the shape of the extruded rubber product.
Vulcanization and Finishing
The curing process is the final step to preserving the precise shape of the extruded rubber part. Curing involves heating the extruded rubber shapes to trigger cross-linking of polymer chains. Secondary processes may follow, such as assembly or the addition of fasteners, tapes, and adhesives.
The UP&R Difference in Rubber Extrusion
UP&R is a standout provider of rubber extrusion services for a wide range of applications, from sensitive components to heavy-duty assemblies that perform in diverse service environments. Our rubber material expertise, rigorous quality control practices, and customization capabilities all play a role in our commitment to excellent service and excellent products.
Material Expertise
With our years of experience as a rubber parts manufacturer for a wide range of industries, we have a deep understanding of how different rubber and plastic materials behave in different applications and manufacturing environments. You can count on UP&R to help you choose the optimal material based on your component’s performance requirements and intended service environment, as well as your budget.
In addition to rubber, UP&R also has expertise in foams and other materials.
Quality Control
UP&R is proud to have earned ISO 9001 and ATF 16949 certifications at each of our manufacturing facilities in Northeast Ohio. Our credentials are bolstered by rigid internal quality control practices that we have developed over time, resulting in exceptional quality and better efficiency.
Custom Solutions
Because we make our own tooling in house, UP&R can offer extensive customization for specialized parts and components. Our experienced technicians can create virtually any shape for a wide range of applications, allowing you to bring all your ideas to life.
Contact UP&R for Your Rubber Extrusion Needs
UP&R has long been a trusted rubber extrusion provider, offering exceptional quality, service, and expertise. We have spent years honing our craft and perfecting the rubber extrusion process, so we can meet your needs and exceed your expectations. Whether you’re in the early stages of a complex new project or ready to begin production, you can turn to UP&R for expert guidance, reliable on-time delivery, and quality extruded rubber products.
Contact us to get started on a project.