The many functions of elastomers

Elastomers are polymers with varying degrees of elasticity and specific resistances — meaning they can be placed into harsh environments, maintaining their original qualities and shape without permanent deformation.

Polyurethane elastomers are derived from a reaction between an isocyanate (prepolymer) and a chain extender, with the most common elastomer families being:

• Toluene diisocyanate (TDI) + Amine
• Methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) + Alcohol
• Naphthalenediimide (NDI) + Alcohol

Elastomers can be customized to withstand extreme environments, from caustic chemicals to high pressures and/or sub-zero temperatures, thriving where other materials fail.

Elastomers in the oil & gas industry

This sector places immense demands on materials. Often located in nature’s most extreme environments, oil and gas equipment must function under extreme pressures, temperatures, and chemical exposure — often simultaneously. In this context, elastomers provide unparalleled performance while reducing the risk of equipment failure, protecting workers, and preventing costly downtime.

Oil & gas applications:

• Seals and gaskets for valves, flanges, and drilling systems
• Downhole packers and tubing protectors for borehole integrity
• Vibration dampeners to protect equipment from damage

Elastomers in the mining industry

In mining, equipment is constantly exposed to abrasion, impact, and corrosive materials.

Elastomers protect these critical components and extend their operational lifespan. With their ability to absorb energy and resist wear, they help reduce maintenance intervals while improving worker safety and process reliability.

Mining applications:

• Conveyor belt skirting and roller coatings
• Liners for chutes, hoppers, and slurry pipes
• Shock-absorbing pads and protective seals

For general manufacturing, elastomers offer a wide range of benefits — from improving machine performance to ensuring compliance in regulated industries like food and pharmaceuticals. Because they can be precisely engineered for specific uses, elastomers help manufacturers increase efficiency, protect sensitive components, and meet regulatory standards.

Manufacturing applications:

• Robotic grippers and conveyor rollers
• Seals and gaskets in chemical and pharmaceutical processing
• FDA-approved elastomers for food-safe equipment

Elastomers in the pulp & paper industry

Elastomers are important throughout the paper production process, primarily due to their flexibility, durability, chemical resistance, and ability to maintain contact pressure without damaging delicate paper surfaces. Their resistance to water, steam and chemicals and long service life under cyclical load makes them an ideal choice.

Pulp & paper applications:

• Press and calendar rolls for applying pressure, smoothing and compressing
• Guide and nip rolls for preventing slippage and maintaining tension
• Coater rolls for adding coatings that allow the paper to be stored and used