The life of elastic materials is not unlimited. Sometimes we see the need to to have components or spare parts available for a long period of time in order to guarantee an adequate manufacturing period for the machines, or to provide technical assistance services for the equipment marketed. To ensure that the elastomer or elastic material maintains its initial properties intact, it is highly recommended to follow these guidelines storage guidelines for products made of elastic materials.
You are at storage guidelines for elastic materials are not exclusive to O-rings, but can also be used for any other product made of elastic materials such as hydraulic seals, pneumatic seals, oil seals and others. In the case of products manufactured with additional components, such as metals, it is advisable to check whether the metal is free of rust or any other observable defect.
At Epidor Seals and Rubber Technology, we determine the storage times for elastic materials The table below is in accordance with the international recommendations for the storage of rubber articles together with the experience accumulated over more than 50 years.
The table below shows a comparison of the recommendations of some of the main international standards mentioned, together with our recommended values for the storage of elastic materials. The values express the storage time limit for elastic materials years, thereafter the product should be checked to see if it is still fit for use.
Index
Considerations for the storage of elastic materials
Storage period of elastic materials can be extended after the time indicated in the table above if the product is properly inspected.
Likewise, the life of an elastomer may be affected before they expire. the indicated storage times if stored incorrectly. In this regard, we refer to the recommendations of DIN 7716.
All these values should be taken with the utmost caution. Elastic materials derived from rubber (elastomers) need to have their optimum quality properties. This is especially relevant if they are to be used under harsh conditions, such as with aggressive chemicals, in high liability applications, in high or low temperature environments or under high pressures or vacuum systems.
Guidelines for the storage of elastic materials at Epidor
In Epidor's logistic facilities we keep the products in perfect storage conditions, especially for protect them from dust, humidity and direct contact with light. In addition we periodically carry out temperature and humidity controls in our logistics center.
If you need more information, contact with us.