It’s all too common for off-the-shelf-parts to fall short of what you need. This makes designing custom rubber extrusion profiles for specific applications an absolutely critical aspect of getting the precision and unique functionality you need for each application. As a premier provider of customized extrusion solutions, Elbex can provide custom rubber extrusion designs that are perfectly tailored to your needs. The Elbex Philosophy: Every Application Is Unique At Elbex, we understand that every application is unique. We actively listen to your specific project requirements so we can understand your exact needs. Whether you have a detailed drawing, a simple sketch for quoting, or even a physical sample for reverse engineering, we can use it as a baseline for getting started. With our team’s knowledge, we can then recommend the most suitable design, material, and manufacturing approach for your component. “Hands-On” Engineering: Your Dedicated Project Quarterback After you request a quote, we assign a dedicated engineering team leader (your "quarterback") to your project. This person takes the lead on your project with all communication and oversight to ensure timely and satisfactory completion. From plan visits and field support to in-depth tooling and engineering setups conducted at our facilities, your team lead will make it happen. Unmatched Resources for Customization and Efficiency Elbex offers a wide range of resources to help your project succeed. Our in-house custom tool and die design services lower costs and allow us to provide turnaround times of days, rather than weeks. Our experts will help you select the right materials to ensure proper performance for your specific application and environment. We also provide a variety of technical resources (as well as the expertise of our own team) to fine-tune new designs or troubleshoot issues. The Elbex Advantage: Why Tailored Solutions Excel Custom solutions always deliver better results than standard designs. With Elbex, you get precision and performance that are optimized for your application. We seek to be a proactive partner who will help you address design challenges, while also guaranteeing a high level of quality with our hands-on approach. This fully integrated in-house approach ultimately saves you time and money – even as you get better results. With our team’s unwavering commitment to designing custom rubber extrusion profiles for specific applications and our ability to deliver customized extrusion solutions, you can count on Elbex to provide the components you need. Contact us today to bring your next rubber extrusion project to life by calling 877-302-0423 or filling out our online RFQ form.

Thermal expansion, contraction, and vibration are persistent challenges in industrial and architectural structures. Left unchecked, these forces can cause significant structural damage – but rubber expansion joints can help. Custom-engineered extruded rubber expansion joints by Elbex offer superior performance and reliability to protect your structures. Understanding Extruded Rubber Expansion Joints Expansion joints play a vital role by reducing movement and vibration, as well as relieving stress caused by surface expansion or contraction. Rubber extrusions absorb movement to dampen vibrations and prevent damage to pipes, building materials, and other surfaces. The end result is greater stability and protection for the entire system. By forcing uncured rubber through a die and curing it in a 400°F salt bath, we can create fully cured, cross-linked, and durable extrusion profiles that address these needs in a variety of applications. Diverse Applications Across Industries Rubber expansion joints are used across many industries and applications, but they are most common in manufacturing and construction. In manufacturing, rubber expansion joints are used in transitions between two surfaces (such as in industrial piping systems), specialized uses like outgassing expansion joints in clean room ductwork, and more. In construction, movement joints provide structural stress relief and maintain structural integrity. These expansion joints keep structures in place while allowing necessary movement from natural expansion or contraction or even seismic activity. This improves the longevity of building materials and helps prevent damage that might otherwise occur. The Elbex Advantage: Customization and Comprehensive Support Working with Elbex for your rubber expansion joints provides several important benefits. Our design and engineering team brings decades of experience, allowing us to custom-design extrusions for any need. Our value-added services such as printing, cutting, splicing, taping, on-site silicone mixing and color matching, and in-house die tooling allow us to provide a rapid turnaround while meeting your precise specifications. Our team can also assist you with technical resources, design assistance, and even material selection to ensure the design and composition of your rubber expansion joint will deliver the performance you need. Our commitment to quality from start to finish will let you move forward with confidence. Elbex is your premier partner for designing and manufacturing custom rubber expansion joints that will safeguard your structures and systems from movement, vibration, and thermal change. Contact us today for design assistance or to discuss your specific extruded rubber expansion joint needs.

Effective sealing is vital for the water control industry. High-performance water control rubber extrusions prevent leaks and contamination, protecting water quality and reducing financial losses. At Elbex, our waterproof rubber gaskets, innovative custom extruded rubber profiles for water control applications, and specialized air barrier rubber extrusions for water control applications can make all the difference in helping you secure your water. The Unique Demands of Water Control Applications Water control applications must deliver decades of leak-free service – even as they face a unique and challenging usage environment. Constant exposure to water, varying water pressures and flows, and the presence of disinfectants, pollutants, and other chemicals in certain water systems, must be addressed to ensure rubber extrusions will stand the test of time. Many applications also face exposure to UV, ozone, extreme temperatures, and potential abrasion from sediment. The right materials and design are critical. Elbex's Specialized Rubber Extrusion Solutions for Water Control At Elbex, we understand the unique demands and challenges of water control systems. Addressing these needs starts with our in-depth knowledge of water-resistant rubber compounds like EPDM, Silicone, Nitrile, and Butyl – and which of these is best for each system. We consider compliance with standards like NSF/ANSI 61 for drinking water components as part of this process. Along with material selection, our advanced extrusion and molding capabilities allow us to produce truly waterproof rubber gaskets, with tight tolerances and consistent quality to prevent even microscopic leaks. Our expertise extends from flat, O-ring, and custom molded gaskets to unique custom extruded rubber profiles for water control applications, such as specialized seals for dam gates, unique pipe lining extrusions, custom profiles for filtration system components, or specific shapes for reservoir linings. Our customization capabilities allow us to address complex geometries and specific sealing challenges that standard solutions can’t handle. This also applies to air sealing applications such as preventing air infiltration into pumps or sealing access hatches in treatment plants. Benefits of Partnering with Elbex for Your Water Control Needs Elbex’s high-quality manufacturing and customization options give you unmatched leak prevention, helping you avoid water loss, environmental contamination, and other hazards. Precise sealing improves the efficiency of pumps, valves, and filtration processes for more efficient operation. Durable rubber components will also reduce your long-term maintenance and replacement needs, resulting in even more cost savings. You can also have confidence that Elbex rubber extrusion solutions will meet your specific needs, as well as regulatory compliance standards. Our adherence to stringent quality standards and commitment to working alongside your engineers will help you develop solutions that meet all applicable industry regulations. With unmatched expertise in providing rubber solutions for the water control industry, make Elbex your first call when you need help securing your water systems. Contact us today to learn more about our capabilities and customization options.

Comfortable, quiet, and reliable mass transit is essential for delivering a great experience for passengers – but overcoming the pervasive challenges of noise and vibration isn’t easy. As a leading expert in providing specialized mass transit rubber extrusions, Elbex can help you produce vibration dampening rubber components and noise reducing rubber gaskets for mass transit vehicles that are tailored to your specific needs. The Demands of the Mass Transit Environment Mass transit is subjected to constant movement and structural flexing. Powerful engines, as well as vehicle interaction with tracks or roads, generates constant noise and vibration in transit vehicles. Over time, this can impact mass transit structural integrity. Excess noise and vibration can also cause discomfort for passengers, negatively impacting how the public views your transit system. Rubber extrusions play a vital role in dampening noise and vibrations. However, achieving lasting results requires rubber components that can withstand extreme temperatures, continuous stress, varying loads, and environmental factors such as UV, ozone, and moisture exposure. Elbex's Precision in Mass Transit Rubber Extrusions Elbex is uniquely positioned to address your mass transit rubber extrusion needs. Our deep understanding of highly resilient natural rubber, weather-resistant EPDM, oil-resistant Nitrile, shock-absorbing SBR, and other rubber compounds enables us to select the right material for each application. Materials are formulated for vibration dampening, thermal stability, and durability against transit-specific stressors. Our custom profile design and engineering capabilities are another valuable strength. Our team can collaborate with your transit engineers and designers to ensure perfect fit and functionality, even for complex sealing and dampening needs. Our extrusion and molding processes are designed for tight tolerances and consistent quality, while our ISO certifications guarantee the reliability and durability of each rubber extrusion. Core Solutions for Enhanced Transit Performance At Elbex, we offer a wide range of rubber extrusion solutions that can enhance transit performance. Engine mounts, suspension bushings, body mounts, and interior panel isolators isolate shocks and reduce resonant frequencies to extend vehicle lifespans, limit structural fatigue, and improve ride quality. We also produce noise reducing rubber gaskets for mass transit vehicles, including window and door seals, floor gaskets, and HVAC system seals. With the help of these acoustic and environmental barriers, your mass transit vehicles will have quieter cabins, enhanced passenger comfort, better thermal insulation, and protection against external elements like dust and water. Additional mass transit extrusions that contribute to vehicle integrity and performance include weatherstripping, bumper guards, D-seals, and custom tubing. No matter what you need, Elbex can provide high-quality, customizable solutions.  Why Elbex is the Premier Choice for Mass Transit With our unmatched expertise and experience, in-depth customization capabilities, ability to produce durable and reliable components, and collaborative approach, Elbex is the go-to source for expertly manufactured mass transit rubber extrusions. Contact us today to learn more about our capabilities or to discuss your next project.

In industries like mass transit and construction, secure fitting and protected edges are key to the durability and safety of many applications. Rubber extrusions, particularly custom extruded u-channels and variations like ribbed rubber channels can play an essential role in these areas – and Elbex’s expertise in providing custom solutions will help you move forward with confidence. Understanding U-Channel Rubber Extrusions U-channel rubber extrusions are named for their distinctive U-shape, which allows them to fit over edges or within channels on mating pieces to ensure a secure fit and protect edges. The size and thickness of the legs and base should be adapted to the needs of the application, since precise dimensions are needed to get a secure fit. Depending on needs, extra features like ribbed rubber channels can be added for increased grip, vibration dampening, or sealing. As with other rubber extrusions, various materials, such as EPDM, neoprene, or silicone can be used for U-channels. The right material depends on the application’s environmental conditions (like temperature, chemicals, and UV exposure), as well as performance requirements such as flexibility and durability. Diverse Applications Across Industries U-channels serve a variety of important functions. They can be used as edge guards to protect surfaces from damage and provide a finished look, such as in automotive door edges, metal paneling, or machinery housings. The tight fit of these rubber extrusions within the channel also dampens vibrations and prevents unwanted movement between components. This is especially important for preventing excess wear and promoting structural integrity in transportation equipment and other machinery. U-channels are also used to create seals against dust, moisture, and other environmental elements. Weatherstripping in homes and glazing seals on building and automotive systems are common examples of this. With the right materials, U-channels can provide essential protection, even in extreme environments that undergo frequent temperature changes. Elbex’s Expertise in Custom U-Channel Solutions At Elbex, we provide a comprehensive level of support in addressing your U-channel needs. Our custom design and manufacturing capabilities allow us to meet your exact design requirements and performance specifications. Our knowledgeable team can also offer design assistance, technical information, and material selection guidance. Our in-house tooling and manufacturing also lends itself to quality results. Our custom on-site tooling capabilities provide a quick, cost-effective turnaround on unique U-channel profiles. We offer a wide range of materials to meet the specific performance needs of your application. The versatility and durability of U-channels makes them an excellent fit for many projects. At Elbex, our expertise and experience in providing high-quality, custom extruded u-channels and ribbed rubber channels gives you the reliable partner you need for these essential components. Contact us today to get support for your extrusion needs.

Rubber extrusions are incredibly versatile, used across a wide range of industries. At the same time, we recognize that understanding the basics of rubber extrusion for beginners can be challenging. In this blog, we’re going to provide a step by step overview of the rubber extrusions process, and how Elbex’s approach to the rubber extrusion process can benefit your company. The Fundamentals of Rubber Extrusion Rubber extrusion is a process in which uncured rubber materials (such as EPDM, silicone, neoprene, and nitrile) are forced through a shaped die. This is done to create a long, continuous profile, reducing waste and making the production of rubber extrusions more efficient. The extruder forces the rubber through the die, which can be adapted to create different shapes for different applications. The continuous profile then goes into a cooling system, where it cures and hardens. After it is cured, handling equipment allows the long profile to be cut to length to form multiple extrusions. Elbex's Streamlined Rubber Extrusion Process: A Step-by-Step Overview At Elbex, we follow a five-step process for streamlined rubber extrusion creation: Step One: Initial Consultation and Design Input. Most projects start when the client provides design information. This usually comes in the form of a drawing or sketch that provides a visual of the extrusion, or a physical sample that we can reverse engineer. Step Two: In-House Die Creation. Once we have a finished design, we manufacture our rubber extrusion dies in-house. By eliminating the need for external vendors, we can lower costs and provide a faster turnaround. This also ensures that the die is the proper shape for the extrusion. Step Three: The Extrusion Process. Once the custom-made die is ready, we use our extrusion equipment to force the heated rubber through the die. The right level of heat and pressure is essential to maintain the right shape during this step. Step Four: Curing and Vulcanization. After going through the die, the rubber is vulcanized (or cured) with chemicals like sulfur to help it harden and improve its physical traits. Step Five: Cooling and Handling. After the extrusion has cured, it needs to cool. Cooling completes the hardening process, after which the rubber can be cut to length or spooled based on application needs.  Elbex’s Commitment to Your Project: Beyond the Basics At Elbex, our commitment to your project’s success goes beyond the basics. In addition to producing custom profiles catered to your specific requirements on-site, we offer technical resources to help your design team – and we can offer design assistance and troubleshooting as needed. Our experienced team can also recommend the right materials for different use cases so you can have confidence your extrusions will stand the test of time. From initial design input to the handling stage, you can count on Elbex’s efficient, client-focused approach to deliver the results you need. With in-house tooling and engineering support, we deliver dependable results that meet and exceed expectations. Whether you’re a newbie or an experienced pro, contact us today to get started on your next rubber extrusion project.

When it comes to designing custom rubber extrusions, the right team can make all the difference. As a leader in this field, Elbex provides extensive rubber extrusions engineering support. As your trusted rubber extrusions design consultancy, you can count on our team to deliver results perfectly catered to the unique needs of your applications. Dedicated Engineering Assistance: From Concept to Creation At Elbex, we understand that every project is different, requiring unique rubber extrusion design solutions to meet your specific requirements. We believe in proactively engaging with our clients early in the process to gain a full understanding of project needs and ensure better collaboration. Whether you need design support for new and innovative rubber extrusion applications or help identifying and resolving issues with existing or legacy applications, our team can help. We bring our problem-solving approach and industry knowledge to material selection, profile design, and functional considerations to provide cost-effective, high-performing solutions catered to your needs. “Hands On” Project Management: Your Dedicated Engineering Leader Our rubber extrusion design experts take a true hands on approach. By assigning a dedicated engineering team leader to each project, you get what we like to call a “quarterback” – a central point of contact and project manager who is with you every step of the way. This allows us to provide comprehensive support tailored to your needs. Whether you require visits to your location, field support during implementation, assistance with tooling design and setup, or engineering setups and consultations at our facilities, your team leader will help everything go smoothly. Leveraging Elbex’s Resources for Project Success In addition to our talented team members, we also provide a variety of engineering resources for your project. Our in-house custom tool and die design services ensure efficient, high-quality work for unique extrusion needs. We also provide a wide array of technical information to help you design your own extrusions. When needed, our team can offer design assistance and troubleshooting. We can also help you select cost-effective materials that meet required performance levels. At Elbex, our rubber extrusion design experts are committed to providing the comprehensive design and engineering support your project needs. As trusted experts and consultants, we take pride in providing results that meet and exceed expectations. Contact us today to learn more about our rubber extrusion design solutions and to start your project.

Fire safety is one of the most important considerations in any construction project. The use of fire-retardant materials helps protect occupants and keep flames from spreading. At Elbex, our ability to produce high-quality fire-retardant rubber profiles ensures that public buildings and other construction projects meet even the most stringent fire safety standards while protecting people and property. Elbex’s Expertise in Fire-Resistant Rubber Products  Fire-resistant rubber products start with the right materials. At Elbex, we start by selecting and formulating rubber compounds that exhibit fire-retardant properties based on the fire safety classifications and standards you need to meet. Materials like specialized neoprene, silicone, and EPDM are all examples of elastomers that provide good fire resistance. This materials expertise is paired with state-of-the-art manufacturing and customization capabilities. Our processes ensure consistent quality, lasting durability, and tight tolerances so you can have confidence in our rubber extrusions’ reliability for fire resistance and everyday performance. We believe in using a collaborative approach with architects and designers to ensure optimal fire safety performance and seamless integration with building designs. Benefits of Elbex’s Fire-Retardant Rubber Solutions With Elbex’s fire-retardant rubber solutions, you can have greater confidence that all parts of your structure are contributing to fire safety. Preventing the spread of fire can provide crucial time for evacuating people and minimizing property damage if a fire occurs. Our fire-retardant materials meet or exceed building codes and regulations to ensure full compliance and maximum safety. With our rubber extrusions’ durability and resistance to weathering and degradation, you can also minimize maintenance needs as you future-proof a fire-safe environment. And with versatile construction applications for everything from sealing to insulation, you can ensure the entire structure is built to minimize fire danger. With our commitment to producing high-quality, custom-engineered fire-retardant rubber solutions, you can have confidence in your own ability to enhance the safety of your construction projects. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help with your specific fire safety needs.

Freezer and refrigerator door gaskets play an essential role in ensuring that these appliances are energy efficient, preserve food, and prevent frost buildup. Worn or damaged gaskets can result in significant energy loss, as well as temperature fluctuations that lead to food spoilage – which can prove costly in both residential and commercial kitchens. As a leading manufacturer of high-quality, durable air barrier seals for refrigerators and freezers, Elbex ensures that your appliances deliver the quality performance your own customers deserve. The Importance of Airtight Seals in Refrigeration Properly functioning gaskets are vital in any quality refrigerator or freezer. Properly functioning gaskets prevent the escape of cold air and the entry of warm, humid air. This reduces the compressor’s workload and lowers the appliance’s energy consumption. Keeping out humid air also prevents frost buildup inside freezers, which is a common maintenance issue. Even more importantly, maintaining consistent internal temperatures extends the shelf life and quality of stored food, preventing spoilage. By reducing energy consumption and food waste, airtight seals can greatly lower costs. Elbex’s Expertise in Refrigerator and Freezer Door Gaskets At Elbex, we bring extensive experience with refrigerator and freezer door gaskets to create airtight seals specifically designed for your appliances. We use our knowledge of various elastomers to select materials like flexible PVC, TPE, and silicone that remain flexible at low temperatures, resist tearing and wear, and are food-grade compliant. We also use state-of-the-art extrusion and molding processes that ensure tight tolerances, consistent quality, and superior sealing performance. Our airtight barriers are designed for durability and longevity, even for demanding or unique applications. We can also collaborate with your manufacturing team to develop custom gasket profiles that match the specific requirements of your refrigerator and freezer models and their door configurations. Benefits of Choosing Elbex’s Refrigerator and Freezer Door Gaskets When you work with Elbex, you can have confidence that our precision-designed seals will deliver consistent, long-lasting performance. From materials selection to design, our gaskets will resist cracking, tearing, and compression set, even on frequently used refrigerators and freezers. We also ensure that our gaskets are easy to install and replace, minimizing downtime when maintenance is needed. And with our customization options, we can tailor everything from aesthetics to functionality based on your specific needs. At Elbex, we are committed to providing high-quality, custom-designed refrigerator door gaskets and air barrier seals for refrigerators and freezers. As an appliance manufacturer or service provider, you can count on Elbex to help you achieve optimal refrigeration performance. Contact us today to learn more.