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.