Rubber is an indispensable raw material in parts manufacturing. Because of its various uses, manufacturers use varying methods to make rubber products. Extrusion molding is one of the methods used in manufacturing rubber parts.
Rubber extrusion is a highly demanded service in rubber product manufacturing companies. But, few people who pay for custom extrusion products know what the process entails. This article demystifies extrusion molding and highlights its benefits.
What Is Rubber Extrusion?
Rubber extrusion refers to the process of manufacturing rubber products with a specific shape by feeding them into an extrusion machine. The machine has three parts, a feed hopper, a heated shearing screw, and a die. During rubber extrusion, manufacturers use a die with the cross-sectional dimensions of the desired product.
Below are the six steps in the rubber extrusion process:
- Manufacturers place unvulcanized rubber into the feed hopper.
- Feed hoppers feed the material into the heated shearing screw.
- Screws push unvulcanized rubber through the die opening under high pressure.
- Pressure makes the rubber flexible, allowing it to take the shape of the die.
- Manufacturers vulcanize the rubber to ensure it retains the shape of the die.
- Manufacturers cut the product into the desired length.
Most of the time, the rubber material swells as it passes through the die. Therefore, the final product has larger dimensions. As manufacturers make the die, they ensure it can accommodate the material when it swells.
Applications of Rubber Extrusion
Some common products manufactured through rubber extrusion include the following.
Door and Window Seals
These seals fill gaps between windows, doors, and their frames to block wind and water. These seals come in handy for keeping you comfortable in your house or car during adverse weather conditions.
Rubber Fender and Bumpers
These products absorb shock from impacts to your vehicle during accidents. The size and shape of rubber fenders and bumpers depend on the type of vehicle. Thus, this is a vital consideration during extrusion.
Manufacturers even make custom extruded products based on your specifications.
Benefits of Rubber Extrusion
Below are some benefits you can expect from extruded rubber products.
Durability
Manufacturers use high-quality rubber material to make extruded rubber products that last for years. A reputable rubber parts manufacturing company uses production methods that create products that can resist wear and tear.
Cost Savings
During rubber extrusion, there is little raw material wastage. Manufacturers use less rubber material in production, which lowers production costs. Therefore, you can get many rubber products at a low cost.
Branding
You can have your manufacturer make custom rubber extrusion products based on your specifications. Using custom products allows you to offer your customers unique products. Extruded rubber products also offer consistency in quality. Hence, buyers are more confident using your products.
Variety
The dies used in extrusion can take on any shape you desire. You can create a variety of products using this manufacturing method. Thus, you have more freedom in design. Rubber extrusion also allows you to make similar products with varying lengths.
Serviceability
Extruded rubber commodities have multiple specifications and tolerances that allow them to withstand the rigors of frequent use. Depending on the type of rubber used, the commodities can withstand extreme temperature, friction, aging, abrasion, and wear and tear.
If you need a reliable extruded rubber parts manufacturer in the Midwest, look no further than Accurate Products. We are among the best product manufacturers that serve customers in multiple industries. You can trust us to make you high-quality products that meet your specifications. Reach out to us today for more information on our products and to discuss how we can serve you.
Rubber mounts are essential for minimizing shock and vibrations throughout your machine, especially the engine. Rubber mounts reduce the transfer of noise and vibration frequencies to other parts of a machine or the frame or chassis of the engine and, in turn, minimize wear and tear.
Do you have a major project coming up that needs rubber products? You need to choose an ideal rubber product manufacturer that is fit for your specific rubber needs.
