BRP uses varying types of rubber. Selecting the right polymer base is important to each project. Our experienced staff works with you to determine what type of rubber works best for your application.
NATURAL RUBBER
The raw material to make natural rubber actually does come from trees
Produces compounds with high tensile strength, tear strength, tear and abrasion resistance
Can be used at lower temperatures, low compression set, and high resilience
Not recommended for severe applications with oil and solvent exposure; subject to aging by sun, ozone, and heat
Also not good for applications in contact with concentrated acids or alkalis
Maximum continuous operating temperature is about 225°F
NEOPRENE (CHLOROPRENE)
Good general purpose rubber with properties close to natural rubber, but is synthetically produced
Better resistance to oils and solvents compared to natural rubber but similar low compression set
Can be compounded for flame resistance
Good weathering resistance
Poorer low temperature performance compared to natural rubber
Not good in applications with concentrated acids or alkalis
Maximum continuous operating temperature is about 275°F
NITRILE (BUNA)
Much better oil and solvent resistance compared to either natural rubber or Neoprene
Recommended for most oil field applications
Can be formulated for use at low temperatures
Good compression set and abrasion resistance, but poor weathering resistance
Can be used with concentrated acids and alkalis but there are better alternatives
Maximum continuous operating temperature is about 275°F