Foam Rubber

What is foam rubber?

Foam rubber is a flexible material of higher quality than other types of closed cell foam, making it extremely useful for technical and durable applications. It is available in a range of hardnesses from very soft to extremely hard, and everything in between. One of the special features of this material is its excellent mechanical properties, which cause it to return more readily to its original shape after being compressed. Closed cell foam rubber is produced in blocks which EKI converts into sheets and continuous rolls in a huge variety of thicknesses. These rolls and sheets are mainly delivered in black, but some are also available in grey and white. EKI then uses these to manufacture products such as tapes, rings and blocks. These can be supplied without adhesive, but also with single-sided or double-sided adhesive.

How is foam rubber applied?

If you’re looking for a highly durable weatherstrip to keep out dust, air, water or noise, for example, then foam rubber tape is the ideal solution. It is also excellent at absorbing vibrations, and for this reason is widely used in the automotive industry. Other industries that benefit from its qualities are the electrical engineering, construction and aerospace engineering industries. In addition, the material is ideal for insulation against heat and cold, such as in air conditioning technology. Closed cell foam rubber can even be found in windmills!

Raw materials

Foam rubber can be made from four different raw materials. These are EPDM, neoprene (also known as CR (chloroprene)), NBR and NR (natural rubber). Because these four materials vary so widely in their properties, it is very important to choose the correct raw material; this will ensure that you find a durable solution for your application.

EPDM

EPDM foam is extremely resistant to weather and ageing, as well as to UV radiation and ozone. When used in direct sunlight, this material won’t let you down! For this reason, it is widely used outdoors.

Neoprene

Neoprene foam is very flame retardant and reasonably oil resistant, which is why it is often used in applications that involve occasional contact with oil. Neoprene is often used in shipping and offshore applications, as well as in public facilities and buildings.

NBR

NBR foam is even more resistant to oil than neoprene, and is therefore used in applications where it comes into prolonged or even permanent contact with oil. It is also reasonably flame retardant and has good shock absorbing properties. These qualities mean that it is often put to use in indoor applications in shipping and engine rooms. It is uncommon outdoors due to its lower resistance to UV radiation and ozone compared to EPDM.

NR

Orange sponge has the best mechanical properties of all of the foam rubber types. It is extremely elastic and can be compressed frequently without losing its original shape. One application of natural rubber is for making vacuum pads.

How EKI delivers foam rubber

Nijmegen-based manufacturer EKI can supply you with products such as high-quality foam rubber tape, foam rubber sheets and foam rubber blocks, in both standard and custom sizes. The items we produce from our materials are extremely durable and can be delivered both in bulk and in small quantities. Regardless of the size of the purchase, we can deliver our products quickly throughout Europe. If you have specific requirements or questions about our products or their technical specifications, please contact us via +31(0)243773378 or info@eki.nl.