Full definition
Nitrile rubber sheet, composed primarily of acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR), is highly regarded in industrial applications for its exceptional resistance to a variety of oils, fuels, greases, and hydraulic fluids. Compared to standard styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) sheets, NBR sheets exhibit a resistance that is typically 3 to 5 times greater, making them the go-to material for gaskets and seals in environments where exposure to these substances is constant. The acrylonitrile (ACN) content in these sheets usually ranges from 30% to 38%, which provides a balance between oil resistance and flexibility, essential for many applications. This composition allows nitrile rubber sheets to maintain their integrity and performance in challenging conditions, thus extending the service life of the components made from them.
Typically available in thicknesses ranging from 1.5 mm to 12 mm, nitrile rubber sheets also come in widths of 1,000 mm to 1,500 mm, with standard roll lengths of 5 to 10 meters. The hardness of these sheets is measured on the Shore A scale, usually falling between 50 to 80, which indicates a versatile range of stiffness suitable for various applications. The operational temperature range for nitrile rubber sheets is between -30°C to +100°C, allowing them to perform effectively in both low and moderately high-temperature environments. According to ASTM D2000, nitrile rubber sheets are classified from BG (medium ACN content) to BK (high ACN content), with the latter providing even greater oil resistance.
Despite their advantages, nitrile rubber sheets do have limitations. They possess poor resistance to ozone and ultraviolet (UV) light, which restricts their use outdoors without additional protection. Moreover, they are susceptible to degradation when exposed to certain chemicals, including ketones, esters, and chlorinated solvents. While nitrile rubber sheets typically command a price premium of 50% to 100% over SBR sheets, the superior service life and performance in oily environments justify this cost for many industrial applications. Common colors include black for standard use and blue for utility identification, enhancing visibility in the workplace.