Full definition
Cast polyurethane (PU) elastomer components used throughout mining and mineral processing where its exceptional abrasion resistance (3-10x natural rubber in fine-particle sliding wear) and high load-bearing capacity provide superior service life. Hardness: 85-95 Shore A (standard for mining wear applications). Key mining applications: (1) Screen panels — modular PU panels for vibrating screens; 3-5x life of woven wire in fine screening; self-cleaning, noise-reducing. (2) Cyclone components — vortex finders, apex liners, and internal cone sections. (3) Pipe linings — internal PU lining for slurry pipes; 5-10x life of rubber in fine abrasion. (4) Conveyor components — scrapers, idler lagging, and skirting. (5) Pump linings and impellers — for fine abrasive slurries. (6) Flotation cell components — stators, impellers. PU types: polyester-based AU (best abrasion resistance) and polyether-based EU (better hydrolysis resistance for wet mining applications). Limitations: PU softens above 80°C (not for hot materials), is attacked by hot water and steam, and has lower impact absorption than NR at low angles — for heavy impact, NR is preferred. Processing: cast from liquid prepolymer + curative, cured in molds, post-cured at 100°C for 16-24h. Brands: Metso (Poly-Met), Weir Minerals (Linatex PU), Trelleborg, and CPI (Custom Polymer Industries).