Elastomer processing for application-specific cut parts

Suitable elastomer stock that can be cut or die cut may be converted for a specific application. EPDM cellular rubber is one material example. The material designation alone is not enough to confirm feasibility: material structure, thickness, geometry, dimensions and the required delivery format all affect the possible processing method. The intended use and quality requirements must also be assessed. Send us the material data and, if possible, a drawing or sample so that we can identify a suitable method.

Not every elastomer can be processed by every method. Processing may become more difficult as Shore hardness and material thickness increase. Depending on the material, its structure and the contour, some die-cutting methods may therefore be ruled out. Laser cutting may be an option if the material is suitable for laser processing in principle and contains no PVC. We also assess whether the laser can produce the required contour and cut edge on the specific material. Please send us the material data, including Shore hardness and thickness, together with a drawing or sample. We will assess which manufacturing method is suitable for your application.

Yes, if the specific EPDM material is suitable for laser processing in principle and the required contour can be produced with the method. Material thickness, structure and heat input are among the deciding factors. This does not automatically mean that other elastomers are suitable for laser cutting. PVC is excluded from laser cutting. For an EPDM project, we therefore assess the actual stock material and drawing before selecting laser cutting as the manufacturing method. Depending on the material and shape, die cutting may be an alternative.

Depending on the suitable material and method, die-cut parts may be supplied on a roll, on a sheet or as individual pieces. These delivery formats differ in how the customer handles them. The choice depends on the geometry, material structure, application process and required workflow. A specific delivery format cannot be promised on the basis of the word “elastomer” alone. Please also tell us whether the parts will be processed manually, semi-automatically or automatically; this helps us agree on a suitable specification.

We need to know the application, the stock material you have or require, the geometry and dimensions, and the intended delivery format. A drawing, technical material data or a sample helps us assess the material and contour together. Also describe the subsequent processing step, the required quantity and any inspection or quality criteria that need to be agreed. If a self-adhesive backing is required, the material combination is relevant too. We will clarify with you what further information is needed for the specific feasibility assessment.