Rubber Sheet Storage Guide

Rubber Sheet Storage Guide

Most rubber products suffer alterations in their physical properties if stored for a certain period of time. Therefore, these items will not retain all their properties if stored for a long period of time before use (excessive hardness, softening of the rubber, or cracking of the exterior are some examples). These changes may be the result of a particular factor or a combination of circumstances, such as the effects caused by oxygen, ozone, sunlight, heat or humidity. The adverse effects of these factors can be reduced by careful storage conditions.

Protective measures - Storage area conditions

COOL
Optimum temperature is 10°C. The temperature should not be less than 0ºC and should not exceed +30ºC. In case the temperature is expected to be below 0º C, care should be taken to increase the temperature of the parts gradually in order to avoid damage.

DRY ENVIRONMENT
It is advisable to maintain an ambient humidity level between 45 and 70%, as an excessively dry environment is detrimental to the rubber. Small deviations during short periods are however admissible.

VENTILATION
Ventilation should be as gentle as possible and drafts should be avoided.

HEAT SPOTS
Rubber rolls should be stored as far away as possible from possible sources of heat or steam.

LIGHT
During storage, they should not be exposed to sunlight or any other light source with ultraviolet radiation.

CLEANING It is advisable to clean the storage place. Oils, grease and chemicals should not be stored in the same room, or if this is not possible, at least they should be kept away. It is advisable to take measures against rodents and insects.