Most vulcanised rubbers change their properties during storage, and can eventually become unuseable, mainly due to excessive hardening or deformation. We therefore recommend the following guidelines should be observed.
- Storage should be in closed dry containers to avoid moisture and condensation.
- The temperature should not exceed 25°C, and excessive low temperatures should be avoided.
- Containers should be protected from direct sunlight, and as ozone can be particularly harmful, storerooms should not contain electrical appliances which produce ozone.
- To avoid deformation articles should be stored in a relaxed state, and overcrowding of containers should be avoided.
- Storage of rubber components of dissimilar composition in the same container should be avoided.
- When cleaning of rubber components may be required, soap and water is the least damaging, and organic solvents should not be used.
- When seals are in transit they should be packed in either black or opaque bags.
| CODE | NAME | INITIAL STORAGE | EXTENDED STORAGE |
|---|---|---|---|
| NR | Natural Rubber | 5/7 years | 2/3 years |
| IR | Isoprene Rubber | 5/7 years | 2/3 years |
| AU | Polyurethane | 5/7 years | 2/3 years |
| NBR | Nitrile | 7/9 years | 3/4 years |
| HNBR | Hydrogenated Nitrile | 7/9 years | 3/4 years |
| CR | Neoprene | 7/9 years | 3/4 years |
| EPDM | Ethylene Propylene | 10/12 years | 5/6 years |
| FKM | Fluorocarbon | 10/12 years | 5/6 years |
| VMQ | Silicone | 10/12 years | 5/6 years |
| FVMQ | Fluorosilicone | 10/12 years | 5/6 years |
| TFE | Tetrafluoroethylene | 10/12 years | 5/6 years |
| FFKM | Perfluoroelastomer | 10/12 years | 5/6 years |
For more detailed and extensive guidelines we recommend the BSI website, and to purchase a copy of The International Standards BS ISO 2230-2002.
