Rubber Cord

Though the exact date of manufacturing of rubber cord is not know, it is said that all rubber cords were first produced in New Zealand specifically for bungee jumping. The rubber cords comprised over 1000 individual strands of rubber tied together to form into one solid cord. While bungee jumping, all-rubber cord stretched to approximately 4 times its resting length. This resulted in less impact or G-forces to the jumpers body which was not the case in sheathed cords. Since a long period of time, rubber cords are used in various applications. Variations of this cord with less elongation have also been developed, which stretches to approximately 3 times their resting length. Rubber cords are in demand for exacting commercial and industrial applications. No longer are rubber cords used only in applications where flexibility is needed. Today typical applications require rubber cord to perform well in applications with environments of extreme heat and cold, where resistance to oil, chemicals and abrasion is mandatory.

• Nitrile Rubber (NBR)
• VITON
• Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPM, EPDM)
• Silicone Rubber (SiR)

Properties of rubber cords

Different rubber materials used to make rubber cords have different properties. Some common properties of rubber cords are as follows:

• Available in various Hardness (Durometer, Shore A: 20 to 80).
• Various colors are available. Natural or any color (translucent or opaque).
• Should avoid prolonged exposure.
• Low compression set requirements.
• Good resistance to oil.
• Good chemical resistance and resistance to alcohols and benzene.
• However not suitable for contact with acetone.
• Good ozone and weather resistant properties.
• Electrically conductive material.
• High temperature grade suitable for intermittent use up to 570 degree.
• Low temperature grade suitable for use at -100 degree.

• High temperature sealing applications.
• Can be joined to o-rings.
• Food and medical equipment, machinery, transportation.