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.
Types of rubber used in making cords
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.
Applications
- High temperature sealing applications.
- Can be joined to o-rings.
- Food and medical equipment, machinery, transportation.
Rubber Cord