Rubber storage & shelf life
Elastomers are susceptible to deterioration by aging.
The rate of deterioration depends on a number of factors:
All elastomer parts manufactured by PPE are clearly marked with the cure date on the packaging.
- Temperature – store between 15-25°C (59-77°F) and away from direct heat sources
- Light – avoid exposure to direct sunlight, artificial light or UV
- Humidity – below <65% is recommended
- Ozone – avoid placing near electric motors or high voltage electrical equipment
- Chemical media – avoid exposure to any liquids or vapours
- Deformation – tension, bending and twisting should be avoided. Do not hang, fold or roll
Under the correct conditions, parts can be stored for the period of time shown in the ‘initial storage’ column below. Once this time has elapsed the parts must be visually inspected for permanent distortion, mechanical damage, cracks, hardening or tackiness (softening). If any of these are found, the parts should be discarded.
Providing the parts are satisfactory, further testing should be carried out to ensure their performance characteristics remain unchanged. The parts can then be stored for the ‘extended storage’ period before further inspection and testing is necessary.
Visit the Elastomer Materials A-Z page for further details on each material type.
Life group | ASTM | Material type | Initial storage | Extended storage |
Group A | NR IR BR SBR AU EU | Natural rubber Polyisopropene Polybutadiene Styrene-Butadiene Polyurethane Polyurethane | 5 years | 2 years |
Group B | ACM ECO CR HNBR IIR NBR | Acrylic Epichlorohydrin Neoprene Hydrongenated Nitrile Butyl Nitrile | 7 years | 3 years |
Group C | CSM EPDM FKM FFKM HPE VMQ FVMQ | Chlorosulfon Polyethylene Ethylene Propylene Fluorocarbon Perfluorocarbon High Performance Elastomer (Kimura®) Silicone Fluorosilicone | 10 years | 5 years |