The following recommendations indicate the most suitable conditions for storing elastomeric items, whether as a single item or composite product.
Storage temperatures should not exceed 50°C. Low temperatures are not permanently harmful provided the rubber items are handled carefully and not distorted. When taken from low temperatures items should be raised to approximately 30°C before they are used.
Optimum humidity is about 65% in a draft-free atmosphere.
Protection from direct sunlight and strong artificial light with a high ultraviolet content is important. Unless packed in opaque containers, it is advisable to cover windows with red or orange screens or coatings.
Elastomeric items should be protected from circulating air wherever possible. As ozone is particularly harmful to rubber, storage rooms should be free from equipment that may give rise to electric sparks or discharge. Wrapping, storage in airtight containers or other suitable means should be used for vulcanised rubber items.
Where possible, rubber items should be stored in a relaxed position, free from tension or compression. Laying the item flat and avoiding suspension or crushing keeps it free from strain and minimises deformation.
Contact with liquids and semi-solid materials, particularly solvents, such as oils or greases should be avoided unless so packed by the manufacturer.
Metals such as manganese, iron and copper, or copper alloys can have a harmful effect on rubber. A layer of paper, polyethylene or cellophane will keep these separated.
Contact with other rubbers or creosotes should be avoided.
Elastomers should be stored for as short a period as possible, and strict stock rotation should be practised.
Organic solvents such as trichloroethylene, carbon tetrachloride and petroleum are the most harmful agents. Soap and water and methylated spirits are the least harmful, and all parts should be dried at room temperature before use.
The table shows the storage life of seal components made from the more common materials under ideal conditions. Storing under less than ideal conditions will reduce the life.
Base polymerCareful inspection of the following should be made before installation after storage:
a. Mechanical damage
b. Permanent distortion
c. Cracks or surface crazing
d. Tackiness or surface softening/hardening
Thin components (less than 1.6mm {1/16in}) tend to be more critically affected.
The appearance of ‘bloom’ is relatively unimportant, except in certain non-toxic applications.
Rubber products are everywhere, and you likely come into contact with countless rubber products in your daily life. Because rubber is such a common material, it’s important to know how long rubber products last. Below you will find the shelf life of rubber products so you don’t risk using expired goods.
Shelf Life of Rubber Products
One of the major factors in how long your rubber lasts is the condition in which they are stored. In the best of conditions, rubber can last well beyond its expiration date. However, poor conditions can cause major issues. In fact, rubber stored in optimal conditions can be used beyond its expiration date.
There are a variety of factors that contribute to the long shelf life of rubber. Rubber should be stored in a cool, dry place as water and warmth can negatively impact the rubber. The area should also be free from light, moisture, oxygen, and any chemicals or chemical-related products. These can disrupt the integrity of rubber and cause issues with its effectiveness. The best temperature for rubber is below 25 degrees Celsius, but preferably at 15 degrees Celsius.
It’s important to note that the shelf life of a product is not the sole indicator as to whether the rubber product is still good. In fact, it can be somewhat risky to wait to use rubber products until the last possible time indicated by the expiration date. Do you have a variety of rubber products? It is best to use them as soon as possible in order to ensure their maximum effectiveness. Even in the best of conditions, rubber can undergo changes and their physical properties can be damaged to a point of being unusable. If the rubber product has expired, it’s best to avoid using it due to the possible negative impacts caused by expired rubber.
Shelf Life of Common Rubber Products
Below are some of the common rubbers used in a variety of products. They are listed by their trade name or common name and their respective recommended shelf life.
Silicone:
This is commonly used in sealants, adhesives, lubricants, medicine, and even cooking utensils. The shelf life of silicone is 20 years.
Viton (“Fluorel”):
Commonly used in seals for aircraft engines, automotive fuel handling systems, and vacuum seals, the shelf life of Viton is 20 years.
Neoprene:
This is commonly used in water sportswear, automotive gaskets, and athletic equipment. The shelf life of neoprene is 5 to 10 years.
EPDM:
EPDM, also referred to as ethylene propylene diene monomer, is used in window and door seals as well as cooling system hoses. The shelf life of EPDM is 5 to 10 years.
Butyl:
Commonly used in O-rings, caulks, sealants, fiberoptic compounds, and agricultural chemicals, Butyl can last up to 5 to 10 years.
Nitrile (“NBR”):
This is commonly used in fuel hoses, gaskets, rollers, and other products that require oil resistance. The shelf life of Nitrile is 5 to 10 years.
SBR:
SBR, also referred to as styrene-butadiene rubber, is used in the manufacturing of automobile tires. The shelf life of SBR is 3 to 5 years.
Natural Rubber:
Commonly used in medical devices, surgical gloves, car tires, pacifiers, clothes, and toys, the shelf life of natural rubber is 3 to 5 years.
Specialty Seals
One of the best ways to determine the shelf life of your unique rubber or rubber product is to talk with a skilled rubber manufacturer. This is especially true if you are determining the shelf life of specialty seals as they are integral to the overall function of major machinery. Contact the team at Real Seal today for any of your rubber or sealant needs.